Oldsmobile Alero problems
The Oldsmobile Alero is a midsize car that was produced by General Motors for its Oldsmobile division. Introduced in 1998 as a 1999 model, the Alero was the replacement for both the Achieva and Cutlass. The Alero was Oldsmobile's last new model nameplate, and — on April 29, 2004 — was also the last Oldsmobile manufactured.
History
The design of the Alero was originally previewed in 1997 with the Alero Alpha concept car, a V6-powered sport coupe that featured many design elements seen in the production Alero as well as some that were never meant for production. Its appearance was a revival of "coke bottle styling", popular during the 1960s and 1970s.
The Alero was sold either as a 4-door sedan or as a 2-door coupe. It shared its chassis and many parts, including engines, with the Pontiac Grand Am. All Aleros came in base GX, mid-level GL, or high-end GLS trim; the GL trim was split into three levels: 1, 2, and 3.
The Alero experienced minimal changes during its 5-year run. Most of these changes were either in choice of engines or options. In 2003, the Alero's daytime running lights were changed from high-beam to low-beam.
The Alero was also sold in select countries in Europe and in Israel between 1999 and 2001 as the Chevrolet Alero, and was only available as a sedan. The car still featured its Oldsmobile badges even though sold under the Chevrolet brand, but since most European consumers would not recognize the badging, Chevrolet badges were added to the grille and rear fascia for the 2000 model year. The Alero featured Chevrolet emblems throughout its entire run in Israel. The Alero was replaced in Europe, Israel, and Canada by the GM Daewoo-sourced Chevrolet Evanda/Epica.
The Alero's production ended with a special Final 500 Edition. These last 500 Aleros featured custom logos inspired by vintage Oldsmobile logos, dark cherry metallic paint, and a plate featuring the car's number out of 500. The final Alero Final 500 Edition (#500 of 500), a GLS 4-door, also happened to be the final Oldsmobile ever built, and was signed under its hood by the employees of the General Motors Lansing plant. The final car left the Lansing Assembly Plant on April 29, 2004 and was then given to the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum. On December 15, 2017, this car was sold at auction for $42,000 to a dealer in Florida.
A preview of the planned replacement for the Alero was seen in 2001 with the unveiling of the Oldsmobile O4 concept, designed by Bertone. The car was an open-top 4-seater with European styling featuring some Oldsmobile traits, and powered by the latest Ecotec I4 engine. The name had multiple meanings, including "Oldsmobile 4-Seater" as well as implying 2004 as a planned date for production.
However, the O4 concept was unveiled a few weeks after General Motors announced that they would be phasing out the Oldsmobile brand, meaning that production possibilities of the O4 would never be realized. Because of this, a second generation Alero was never built and the car was phased out with the Oldsmobile brand in 2004.
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Oldsmobile Alero model years
Common Oldsmobile Alero problems
The Oldsmobile Alero, produced from 1999 to 2004, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. The following is a list of these issues in detail:
- Ignition Switch and Injector Control Box Issues: Some Alero owners have reported that their cars will turn over but won't start. This issue may be due to a faulty ignition switch or injector control box, which can cost between $300 and $775 to replace. However, some repair shops may suggest replacing both parts, leading to a higher repair cost.
- Fuel Pump and Inline Fuel Filter Problems: Some Alero owners have experienced issues with the fuel pump and inline fuel filter. Even after replacing these parts, the car may still not start unless gas is poured into the throttle body. This issue can be caused by a faulty crank sensor, which can be replaced mechanically if the owner has the necessary skills.
- Security Light Blinking: Some Alero owners have reported that the security light blinks for 10 minutes before the car starts. This issue can be caused by a faulty ignition switch or injector control box. A remote starter system can bypass this problem, and it can also help cool or warm the car during extreme weather conditions.
- Unintended Ignition Key Rotation: This issue has been reported in a recall involving 7.6 million vehicles, including the Oldsmobile Alero. The recall is due to unintended ignition key rotation, which can cause the car to shut off while driving, leading to at least 7 crashes, 8 injuries, and 3 deaths. GM has not announced when the recall will begin, but owners are advised to keep an eye on their mailbox for an official recall notice.
- Engine Problems: The 1st generation Alero (2000-2004) ranks 18th in reliability out of 18 generations, with 959 complaints mostly about engine problems. The engine is responsible for 100% of the complaints in this generation of Alero.
- Electrical Problems: The 1st generation Alero also has electrical issues, with 90% of the complaints related to electrical problems. These issues can affect various parts of the car, including the windows, cooling system, and interior.
In summary, the Oldsmobile Alero has several common problems, including issues with the Passlock sensor, ignition switch, injector control box, fuel pump, and security light. Recall notices have been issued for unintended ignition key rotation, which can cause the car to shut off while driving. Additionally, the 1st generation Alero has engine and electrical problems, with the engine being responsible for 100% of the complaints in this generation.
What happened to Alero cars?
The final car left the Lansing Assembly Plant on April 29, 2004 and was then given to the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum. On December 15, 2017, this car was sold at auction for $42,000 to a dealer in Florida.
Why won t my Oldsmobile Alero start?
The most common reasons an Oldsmobile Alero won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
How to reset security on Oldsmobile Alero?
Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF. Attempt to start the engine, then release the key to ON (vehicle will not start). Observe the SECURITY light, after approximately 10 minutes the light will turn OFF. Turn OFF the ignition, and wait 10 seconds.
Where is Oldsmobile Alero made?
All Aleros were built in Lansing, Michigan. The Alero was Oldsmobile's last compact car as well as the last vehicle sold under the brand. Production ended on April 28, 2004.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Oldsmobile Alero years
We have researched Oldsmobile problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Oldsmobile Alero cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Oldsmobile Alero model years:
- Oldsmobile Alero 2000
- Oldsmobile Alero 1999
- Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Oldsmobile Alero 2002
- Oldsmobile Alero 2003
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Oldsmobile Alero model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Oldsmobile Alero years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Oldsmobile Alero car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Oldsmobile Alero , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Oldsmobile Alero vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Alero model years
A total of 90 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Alero model years
There were a total of 35 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Alero model years
There were a total of 84 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Alero model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2036 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Oldsmobile Alero . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Oldsmobile Alero vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Oldsmobile Alero 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1G3NL52EX4C
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Friendly Chevrolet 62704 has refused the open recall on my vehicle after being on schedule for tommrow 8a.m Service Manager Sir Richard said it's a waste of time and not my issue.
Oldsmobile Alero 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3NL52EX4C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: Airbag no deployment Loss of power steering Brakes to floor Car died Recall ignored prior and still today after set up now off their schedule Friendly Chevrolet rich Gardner
Oldsmobile Alero 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3NF52E03C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. The contact stated while driving approximately 5 MPH and crossing an intersection, a speeding police vehicle crashed into the driver's side of the vehicle and the front driver's side wheel was bent. The air bags failed to deploy and the contact hit her chest against the steering wheel. Additionally, the left side of the contact' body hit the driver's side window. The contact was knocked unconscious for approximately 30 minutes. The police officers removed the driver's side door and assisted the contact out of the vehicle. The emergency units transported the contact to the hospital, where she spent one night. The contact was then transported to another hospital where she spent two weeks. The contact sustained severe head, collarbone, neck, and back pain. Additionally, the contact sustained chest pain bruises, and a broken left foot. The contact was then sent to a rehabilitation center where she spent one week. The contact was then transported to her residence by emergency units. The contact stated that she had not been able to work properly and she had been depressed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot, where it was totaled. A police report was filed. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-18
- VIN: 1G3NL52T81C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The car will shut off while driving/idling. There are no check engine lights. Took it to get the latest recall fixed that had to do with this and they just gave us new keys. It did not remedy the situation! Now we are paying to fix it because it is still shutting off while driving.
Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-26
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-26
- VIN: 1G3NL52E51C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V400000 (Electrical System) and requested to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The consumer stated the vehicle was junked 3 or 4 yrs ago because of the computer going out on the vehicle.
Oldsmobile Alero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-02
- VIN: 1G3NL52F62C
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: 1. Security turns on while driving, making the vehicle to spin but not drive normally on road or highway when driving 2. Horn malfunctioning, stops working when security turns on while driving 3. Seatbelt warning and airbag light flashing when security turns on while driving, seatbelt becomes locked preventing driver from being able to move to check blind spots or rear while driving 4. Emergency lights become disabled when security lights turn on Key ignition was inspected and fixed according to recall. The above are things that have been noticed by new driver/owner. Only drive when necessary to avoid traffic accidents. Do not have money to pay a dealership or GM to check problems. These problems occurred since day 1 after purchasing the vehicle.
Oldsmobile Alero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-02
- VIN: 1G3NK52FX2C
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Kept cutting off won't stay crunk long ignition is jammed loud screeching noises from the springs alternator might be the reason electrical issues fuel pump I had to leave my car at a friend's place I'm not working due to the COVID pandemic not able to afford repairs I really need my transportation someone referred me to this site
Oldsmobile Alero 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-22
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-20
- VIN: 1G3NL52E83C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Driving and everything quit but the engine nothing on the dash worked, door locks unlocked lost headlights, radio anything Electrical was gone
Oldsmobile Alero 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-29
- VIN: 1G3NL12E24C
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle accelerated independently. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated she was able to drive to her destination. The contact called multiple local dealers: Les Stanford Cadillac (21730 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48124, (313) 565-6000), Gordon Chevrolet, INC. (31850 Ford Rd, Garden City, MI 48135, (734) 237-6089) and James-Martin Chevrolet, INC. (6250 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, (313) 444-8226) and was informed that the accelerator pedal was no longer being manufactured. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V528000 (Vehicle Speed Control) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-07-11
- VIN: 1G3NL52T11C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving the vehicle the car shut off while ignition was on. No warning whatsoever
Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-18
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-21
- VIN: 1G3NL52T11C
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Car shut off while driving
Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-16
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-19
- VIN: 1G3NL52E81C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Electrical ground wire to Alternator burnt out; caused battery to lose charged replaced twice within 2 years.
Oldsmobile Alero 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-30
- Date Complaint: 2020-10-30
- VIN: 1G3NL52F24C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE HAZARD AND TURN SIGNALS DOESN'T WORK AT ALL. I BOUGHT A NEW TURN SWITCH, PUT A NEW FUSE IN AND EVERYTHING AND NOTHING WORKS. WHEN I DRIVE ON THE ROAD THE TURN SIGNAL DOESNT COME ON AND SOMETIMES IT CAUSES A LOT OF PROBLEMS.
Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-15
- Date Complaint: 2020-08-01
- VIN: 1G3NL12E51C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FOR SOME TIME THE TURN SIGNALS WOULD ONLY WORK INTERMITTENTLY. IT SEEMED LIKE I HAD MORE TROUBLE WITH THEM IF IT WAS VERY HOT AND HUMID OUTSIDE. THEN, THE TURN SIGNALS TRIGGERED THE HAZARD LIGHTS TO COME ON. THE TURN SIGNALS ARE NOW INOPERABLE. SOMETIMES THE HAZARD LIGHTS COME ON BY THEMSELVES AND I AM UNABLE TO TURN THEM OFF.THE TURN SIGNALS QUIT WORKING AS I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. THE TURN SIGNALS ARE COMPLETELY INOPERABLE NOW.
Oldsmobile Alero 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2020-05-17
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-18
- VIN: 1G3NL12EX2C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 2002 OLDS ALERO,PRESENT MILEAGE@5/17/20-187,037. WHERE DO I START? OKAY,THE TRUNK HAS STARTED TO ARBITRARILY DECIDE TO POP OPEN...APPARENTLY DURING RAIN/THUNDERSTORMS...I WONDER IF THIS HAS ANYTHING TO DO WITH THE DOOR LOCKS RECENTLY DECIDING TO NOT LOCK THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEN USING SWITCH ON DR,SIDE DOOR...AND NOW SINCE THE TRUNK'S BEEN POPPING OPEN FOR THE LAST 3WKS,THE KEY FOB WON'T OPEN THE TRUNK,AND THE BUTTON ON INTERIOR DOOR TO THE TRUNK WON'T WORK EITHER,UNLESS THE CAR IS RUNNING(AND NOT ALL THE TIME THEN,EITHER) INTERIOR DOOR LOCKS WON'T RESPOND TO THE INTERIOR SWITCH ANYMORE..WHAT A PAIN IN THE A**....I'M KEEPING A BUNGEE CORD OVER THE SPOILER TO THE BUMPER TO KEEP THE TRUNK CLOSED. FYI~I KEEP THE CAR ON A TRICKLE CHARGE TO THE BATTERY24/7 ,SINCE I AVOID DRIVING THE THING-THE PASSLOCK BS SEEMS TO CAUSE THE BATTERY TO DRAIN SINCE IT HAS TO SIT WITH THE KEY ON.ALSO CARRY A NOCO CHARGER AT ALL TIMES IN CASE I NEED A JUMP..THE RUST IS UNBELIEVABLE. REAR FENDERS ARE ALL BUT CRUMBLED OFF.HAVE TO FIX DR,SIDE WINDOW NOW~HAD TO FIX PASS. SIDE 2YRS AGO.REGULATOR AFU,PROBABLY NEED NEW SWITCH,WINDOW WENT OFF THE TRACK, GETTING GOOD AT TAPING THEM UP DISCREETLY.THE ALUMINUM RIMS CAUSE SLOW LEAKS IN TIRES,BUY YOURSELF AN INFLATOR..MASSIVE POWER STEERING LEAK NOW,BRAKE LINES REPLACED TWICE..THEY'RE UNDER THE CAR EXPOSED TO WHERE THEY GET TO RUST AWAY CONSTANTLY~I LIVE IN NORTH WEST OHIO WHERE IT SNOWS&RAINS ALOT,SO I'M HOSED. ONCE I MASTERED THE PASSLOCK 2STEP I THOUGHT THAT IT COULDN'T GET ANY WORSE~BUT IN READING ALL THE OTHER COMPLAINTS& STARTING TO HAVE WHAT MAY BE A BCM ISSUE,I'M NOT DRIVING THIS THING IF I DON'T HAVE TO! I PAID MY AAA DUES AND FULL COVERAGE INSURANCE.. OH,YEAH-HAD THAT"RECALL" A FEW YRS AGO AND ALL THEY DID WAS MONKEY AROUND WITH THE KEYS,NOT THE IGNITION! I'VE BEEN TOLD A 100 TIMES I'LL NEED A NEW IGNITION~ANYBODY OUT THERE HAVE $700??? *TR
Latest 5 recalls Oldsmobile Alero
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 21 recalls for different components of the Oldsmobile Alero.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Oldsmobile Alero 2003
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
- Model: Oldsmobile Alero 2002
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
- Model: Oldsmobile Alero 1999
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
- Model: Oldsmobile Alero 2001
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
- Model: Oldsmobile Alero 2004
- Report Received Date: 2014-07-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
Latest negative Oldsmobile Alero car reviews
Latest positive Oldsmobile Alero car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2002
It's great to hear that you have two Alero's in your family! Your daughter drives an 01, and you just picked up an 02 for your son. The Alero is a comfortable car with many amenities for the money. You paid $4800 for the 01 with 74k 1 owner, and $3700 for the 02 with 55k one owner as well. Although the 02 has some hail damage and needed the lower intake gasket replaced, both have leather and a power driver seat. It's impressive that you're getting 30 mpg highway, and given a choice, the 3.4L V6 is the better engine even considering the gasket issue.
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Vehicle year: 2002
True American muscle from Lansing, Michigan, the ironically named Oldsmobile Alero is anything but old. I owned my all-black, John Wick edition, 02 Oldsmobile Alero GLS for three glorious years. I had to sell this high-speed aphrodisiac once I desired a committed relationship. This car leads to nothing but street racing, infidelity, and a rockstar lifestyle. 0 to 60 in four seconds faster than the next leading car, you'll be tempted to challenge the police, and you should. The Alero was the original vehicle proposed to headline the Fast and Furious series but when Vin Diesel was too scared to sit behind the wheel of one, they moved on. The sheet metal over paper mache exterior is as aerodynamic as it is light. You can throw a barbell between two of these puppies and bust out a 10-set of incline bench. Consider investing in some top-tier windshield wipers because the stock model wipers won't be able to handle the number of moist panties being thrown towards your dash. The car's a classic all-terrain war machine. It only goes up in value. 5-stars.
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Vehicle year: 1999
I have owned my Alero since 1999 and I am happy to say that I have never had any major problems with it. I have taken it in regularly for maintenance and oil changes, and the only thing I have had to replace is the motor for the power window since my warranty expired last year. I highly recommend this car to anyone, it's a shame they don't make them anymore!
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Vehicle year: 2003
I purchased the car this year, in 2014, with 144k miles on it. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the fuel pump and the anti-theft system. The ignition switch has also been causing some trouble, and I have had to wiggle the key to start the car. Recently, the anti-theft system has been kicking in while driving on the highway, causing the engine to shut off. This has resulted in me having to tow the car home twice in the last month. Despite my concerns, GM has not issued a recall for this issue, as they do not consider it to be a safety concern. However, I can't help but wonder how safe it is to have the engine cut off while driving at 70 mph on the interstate.
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Vehicle year: 2000
The car is a great size and handles exceptionally well for a sedan. It has reasonable acceleration (this is coming from a former Viper owner). I have not experienced any issues with the brakes yet, even after 31,000 miles. It is a reliable car. However, the leather is cheap and may tear. Despite this, I would definitely recommend this car to anyone.
Are you having problems with your Oldsmobile Alero?
Kristian Lemke 2025-10-10
Vehicle year: 1999
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it back in 2002 with only 38k miles on it, and now in 2011, it has 214k miles! While I've had some issues with the power windows breaking and the intake and head gaskets going out frequently, I've found that using sealer additives can help me limp it along for about 10k miles at a time. The clearcoat started peeling around 90k miles, and the CD/tape player stopped working at about 70k miles. I've found that any work involving the belt must be done by a mechanic due to the motor mount running through the belt, which can be a bit of a hassle. However, when the V-6 is running correctly, the performance is actually really good! I did want to mention that the security feature can disable your ignition frequently, but overall, I've had a decent experience with my car. I've heard that these complaints also apply to Grand Ams and Aleros from 99-2002, so it's something to keep in mind. I would recommend staying away from
Guy McCullough 2025-09-27
Vehicle year: 2000
Although I do expect my car to require some maintenance, I cannot accept the premature failure of the transmission or fuel pump. The car has also required several minor repairs, including two stuck front calipers, a front wheel bearing, an intermittent driver side power window, a leaking intake gasket and transmission gasket, a disconnected power steering hose, and two replacements of the fan resistor. As a confident car owner, I believe that these issues should not have occurred and I hold GM accountable for these failures.
Julius Stehr 2025-09-23
Vehicle year: 2004
My 2004 Alero v6 4 door has had several issues over the past 6 years, but I have taken care of each one with confidence. I have had the brakes and rotors replaced 3 times, and the wiring harness behind the steering wheel was replaced once and needs to be replaced again. Although it has been involved in a few accidents, I have always been able to get it back on the road. Currently, I am experiencing some issues with starting the car, but I am confident that I will be able to resolve it with the right maintenance. Overall, I have been able to keep my car in good condition with proper care and attention.
Judson Rosenbaum 2025-09-19
Vehicle year: 1999
Hi there! I bought my 1999 Oldsmobile Alero brand new in 2000 and have only put about 5,000 - 5,500 miles on it each year. It's been a great car overall, with only a few minor issues. I've had to replace the brake pads three times and the rotors once on all four wheels, which cost me a total of $500.00. Not too bad for six years of driving! However, I did run into some trouble when the car hit 36,000 miles (right after the warranty ran out, of course). The transmission needed to be fixed, which set me back $1,900.00. I've also had some issues with the seals and gaskets, which cost me around $400.00. And now, I'm dealing with an alternator problem. So, just a heads up to any potential buyers - this car has its quirks! But, I have to say, it handles great, has awesome speed, and is a really fun ride. Just keep in mind that it may not have a ton of life left in it. Thanks for reading!
Justus Collins 2025-09-14
Vehicle year: 2000
Although my 2000 Alero has had some issues, I have been able to address them promptly and effectively. I have had the brakes replaced a few times, and the dash board and door upholstery have required some attention. Additionally, I have had to replace a few of the power window motors, and the alternator has been replaced twice. While these issues have been frustrating, I have been able to handle them with confidence and competence. Overall, I am satisfied with my car and its performance.