2003 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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Common 2003 Oldsmobile Alero problems
The 2003 Oldsmobile Alero has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine and electrical system.
- Engine Problems: The most common engine problem is the engine turning over but not starting. This issue has been reported by 72 owners, accounting for 100% of the engine-related complaints. The root cause of this problem is not explicitly mentioned in the search results, but it is a significant issue that affects the reliability of the Alero.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical issues are also prevalent in the 2003 Alero, with 90% of the complaints related to electrical problems. The flashing security light and engine turnover without starting are indicative of electrical issues that may be related to the ignition system or the security system.
- Ignition Switch Issues: A significant recall affecting the 2003 Alero involves ignition switch-related problems. This recall affects 7.6 million vehicles and is responsible for at least 7 crashes, 8 injuries, and 3 deaths. The ignition switch issues can cause the engine to shut off while driving, which is a severe safety hazard.
- Corrosion on Battery Cable Ends: Another common problem with the 2003 Alero is corrosion on the battery cable ends. This issue can cause intermittent electrical problems and may lead to starting difficulties or other electrical malfunctions.
- Brake Fluid and Spark Plugs: The 2003 Alero also requires regular maintenance, including flushing the brake fluid every 60,000 miles and replacing the spark plugs every 100,000 miles. These maintenance tasks are essential to ensure the reliable operation of the Alero.
In summary, the 2003 Oldsmobile Alero has several common problems related to the engine and electrical system. These issues can affect the reliability and safety of the car, and regular maintenance is necessary to ensure its proper operation.
Is an Alero a good car?
The Alero is a solid car.
I have owned my 2003 Alero GLS for six years now. I bought it used. The main reason I chose the Alero was it handled great; and the one I picked had a very clean, and quiet, running engine with reasonable power.
What is the value of a 2003 Oldsmobile Alero?
The value of a used 2003 Oldsmobile Alero ranges from $274 to $1,184, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
Why won't my 2003 Alero start?
This is normally caused by a faulty passlock sensor. This sensor is located in the ignition lock cylinder of your car. There is a really good chance of this problem reoccurring. I would advise that you have the vehicle scanned for trouble codes to verify that this is the problem, normally it is.
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.
2003 Oldsmobile Alero car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Alero problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Oldsmobile Alero vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
The NHTSA has received 187 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Oldsmobile Alero vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-21
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-22
- 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
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-27
- VIN: JF1ZNAA17D1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 1200 MILES AFTER J02 RECALL CAR RUNS SLUGGISH GOING UP CANYON. STOP CAR AND ENGINE IS MISFIRING. TURN AROUND AND COAST DOWNHILL IN NEUTRAL UNTIL CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TURNS ON THEN STOP AND PARK CAR FOR SEVERAL HOURS. CALLED DEALER AND ASKED WHAT I SHOULD DO. COAST OUT OF THE CANYON WITH THE ENGINE OFF. TURN ENGINE ON AFTER SEVERAL MILES AND NO MORE PROBLEMS. DRIVE HOME CAREFULLY. NEXT DAY THROWS SEVERAL CODES AND RUNNING SLUGGISH. SEVERAL DAYS LATER CODES ARE GONE RIGHT BEFORE IT GOES TO DEALER. THEY CAN'T DIAGNOSE IF CAR HAS NO ACTIVE CODES OR SYMPTOMS. ABOUT A WEEK LATER TURN CAR ON AND CAR IS MAKING A KNOCKING SOUND AND HAS SEVERAL PENDING CODES. CAREFULLY DRIVE HOME. CODES DIDN'T SAVE. FINALLY ABLE TO TAKE TO DEALER AROUND JUNE 25TH WHILE CAR IS MAKING THE KNOCKING NOISE BUT NO CODES AND THEY THINK IT'S A LIFTER BUT NOT SURE. I LEFT THE CAR AND THEY SAY THEY CAN'T REPLICATE THE ISSUE. LITERALLY THE SAME DAY I PICK THE CAR UP IT IS KNOCKING AND CONSISTENTLY DOES SO FOR THE NEXT WEEK AS SOON AS THE ENGINE WARMS UP. JULY 5 ENGINE SOUNDS LIKE IT'S BEING HIT BY A HAMMER AND THROWS P0011 CAM TIMING ADVANCED. OIL PRESSURE IS 5PSI AT IDLE AND 40PSI AT 5000RPM. HAVE CAR TOWED TO DEALER BECAUSE IT PROBABLY WOULDN'T MAKE THE DRIVE AND THEY SAY IT IS PISTON SLAP WITHOUT EVEN OPENING THE ENGINE THEY DETERMINE IT IS NOT CAUSED BY THE RECALL. AT THIS POINT THE ENGINE IS SITTING IN MY GARAGE WITH THE TIMING COVER, OIL PAN AND ONE VALVE COVER OFF AND I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH IT. I CAN'T AFFORD TO PAY THEM TO FIX SOMETHING THAT IS HAPPENING TO DOZENS OF PEOPLE AFTER THE RECALL. I'M GOING TO TRY TO GET THE DEALER TO ACTUALLY TEAR IT DOWN TO DIAGNOSE IT.. CODES THROWN SO FAR ARE P0011 P219A P0301 P000A P0420 KNOCKING SEEMS TO BE WHEN OIL WARMS UP AND OIL PRESSURE DROPS TO ABOUT 30PSI AND BELOW.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-07
- VIN: 1G3NL12F53C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR HAS BEEN HAVING ACCELERATION ISSUES HER AND THERE HAS HAD A FUEL LEAK FOR AWHILE NOW AND NOW ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR WILL NOT START..
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-01
- VIN: 1G3NK52F53C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE THE KEY WAS IN THE IGNITION, THE ENGINE FAILED TO ENGAGE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-02
- VIN: 1G3NL12F53C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED A COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER AND ALL THE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT THE TECHNICIAN COULD NOT GET THE VEHICLE STARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BODY CONTROL MODULE AND BATTERY WERE DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO TOWED TO ANOTHER INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO WAS BRIEFLY ABLE TO GET THE VEHICLE STARTED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED OVER TEN TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-01
- VIN: 1G3NL52E93C
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY ROAD AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE CAR RANDOMLY BEGAN ACCELERATING ON ITS OWN. I IMMEDIATELY PUSHED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL ONLY TO DISCOVER THE CAR CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE. I STOMPED ON THE BRAKE AS HARD AS POSSIBLE TO AVOID HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. I MOVED THE GEAR SHIFT TO NEUTRAL TO TRY TO KEEP THE CAR FROM ACCELERATING BUT THAT DID NOTHING. I WAS BARELY ABLE TO TURN OFF ONTO A SIDE STREET WHERE I WAS ABLE TO SHUT OF THE ENGINE AND MAKE THE CAR STOP BEFORE HITTING OTHER VEHICLES. THE CAR'S ENGINE REVVED UP SO HIGH THAT IT SOUNDED AS IF IT WERE GOING TO BLOW UP THE ENGINE. NOW THERE IS OIL LEAKING SEVERELY UNDER THE CAR AFTER THIS INCIDENT.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-13
- VIN: 1G3NL52E23C
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONTINUATION OF A PRIOR COMPLAINT (10908068). ON 9/20/16, PRIOR DEFECTIVE STARFIRE RS-C 2.0 ULTIMATE TOURING TIRE REPLACED WITH ANOTHER SIMILAR STARFIRE TIRE (U30H LDJ) AT PEP BOYS. PAID $42.41 (TIRE HANDLING CHARGE, WHEEL BALANCE, ROAD HAZARD WARRANTY, AND VALVE STEM). ON 10/13/16 NOTICED NEW TIRE WAS FLAT/LOW, TIRE PRESSUE WAS DOWN TO 18LBS; INFLATED TO 34LBS. ON 10/14 TIRE WAS FLAT AGAIN DOWN TO 19LBS. USED FIX-A-FLAT TYPE PRODUCT AND INFLATED TO 34LBS, APPEARS TO BE HOLDING. SCHEDULING APPT WITH PEP BOYS TO CHECK TIRE AND POSSIBLY RESEAL. WHY IS THIS HAPPENING TO THIS TIRE BRAND? IS THERE A DEFECT?
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-13
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: CONTINUATION OF A PRIOR COMPLAINT (10908068). ON 9/20/16, PRIOR DEFECTIVE STARFIRE RS-C ULTIMATE TOURING TIRE REPLACED WITH ANOTHER SIMILAR STARFIRE TIRE (U30H LDJ) AT PEP BOYS. PAID $42.41 (TIRE HANDLING CHARGE, WHEEL BALANCE, ROAD HAZARD WARRANTY, AND VALVE STEM). ON 10/13/16 NOTICED NEW TIRE WAS FLAT/LOW, TIRE PRESSUE WAS DOWN TO 18LBS; INFLATED TO 34LBS. ON 10/14 TIRE WAS FLAT AGAIN DOWN TO 19LBS. USED FIX-A-FLAT TYPE PRODUCT AND INFLATED TO 34LBS, APPEARS TO BE HOLDING. SCHEDULING APPT WITH PEP BOYS TO CHECK TIRE AND POSSIBLY RESEAL. WHY IS THIS HAPPENING TO THIS TIRE BRAND? IS THERE A DEFECT?
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-09
- VIN: 1G3NL52E23C
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON I-295 NORTH NEAR HAMILTON TWP, NJ AT AROUND 6:45PM AT A SPEED OF ABOUT 65 MPH, THE RIGHT REAR TIRE BLEW OUT COMPLETELY. THERE WAS A 2-INCH SQUARE HOLE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE TIRE. CONDITIONS WERE NORMAL AND THE DRIVING SURFACE WAS DRY. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO PEP BOYS, BEVERLY NJ WHERE I PURCHASED ALL FOUR STARFIRE TIRES (RS-C 2.0 225/50/R16) ON 12/27/2015. EACH TIRE HAS THE ROAD HAZARD WARRANTY.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER FAILURE RESULTING IN THE DEVICE STOCKING AND BECOMING STUCK INOPERABLE. AT FIRST IT WAS DIFFICULT TO TURN TO THE RUN POSSITION. IT WOULD FEEL STUCK AND TOOK SOME WIGGLING AND SHAKING IN ORDER TO START THE VEHICLE. WHICH PROGRESSED TO BEING STUCK PERMANENTLY.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-23
- VIN: 1G3NL52F83C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) HOWEVER THE DEALER REFUSED TO PERFORM THE REPAIR DUE TO THE CONTACT NOT HAVING THE ORIGINAL KEY FOB. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PART DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-22
- VIN: 1G3NF12E73C
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AND THE CAR JUMPED UP ITO 6 AND 7 RPMS IN THE RED GOT STUCK EVEN WHEN PEDAL WAS NOT PRESSED STAYED THERE I THE RED FOR A FEW SECONDS WITH NO WARNING LIGHTS FINALLY DROPPED AND STARTED KNOCKING.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-08
- VIN: 1G3NL52FX3C
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE TURN SIGNALS FAILED TO FUNCTION AND SMOKE EMITTED FROM THE TOP PART OF THE STEERING COLUMN. IN ADDITION, WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE HEADLIGHTS AND HORN FAILED TO FUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 174,000.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-08
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER WAS IN USE DURING CITY DRIVING, WHEN AN ODOR SIMILAR TO EXHAUST WAS NOTICED. DRIVER CONTINUED FOR 3 MORE BLOCKS, WINDOWS DOWN, THEN STOPPED. SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF PINK SMOKE WAS COMING FROM BEHIND A PANEL ON THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR PILLAR. SMOKE ENDED WITHIN A FEW MINUTES OF THE CAR BEING STOPPED WITH ENGINE OFF. INSPECTION SHOWED BURNT AND MELTED DEFOGGER UNIT, DAMAGED INSULATION, AND PARTLY MELTED PLASTIC PANEL. FUSE FOR THE UNIT WAS REMOVED AND CAR INTERIOR CLEANED. NO OTHER REPAIRS. EVENT DATE IS APPROXIMATE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-13
- VIN: 1G3NL52E33C
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE INCREASED AND WHITE SMOKE OR MIST EMITTED FROM THE EXHAUST PIPE. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE ENGINE BLOCK WAS CRACKED AND RECOMMENDED THAT THE VEHICLE BE TAKEN TO A RADIATOR SPECIALIST, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE BLOCK AND THE ENGINE MANIFOLD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 215,015. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. ....UPDATED 07/05/16 *BF
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: IGNITION). THE VEHICLE DID NOT EXHIBIT ANY FAILURES PRIOR TO THE RECALL REPAIR. AFTER THE REPAIR, THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED WITH A RECALL REPLACEMENT KEY THAT WAS DIFFERENT FROM THE FACTORY KEY PROVIDED AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE. THE RECALL REPLACEMENT KEY FAILED TO START THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION HAD TO BE EXPOSED IN ORDER TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR FURTHER DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 165,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3NL52E93C
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE SLID ON ICE AND CRASHED INTO A LIGHT POLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED AN INJURY TO THE NECK, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,860.
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-01
- VIN: 1G3NL52E53C
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO TRUNK ISSUES. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED FOR THE THIRD TIME, SINCE SHE HAS OWNED THE VEHICLE, THE GATE RELEASE ON THE TRUNK LID HAS FAILED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE LID WOULD COME DOWN WITH NO WARNING. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-19
- VIN: 1G3NL12F03C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TRIED TO START CAR AND IT WOULD NOT START, ONLY CRANK. STARTED NEXT MORNING AND HAD IT TOWED TO REPAIR SHOP AND IT WOULD NOT START INTERMITTENTLY. REPAIR SHOP SAID TO TAKE IT HOME BECAUSE THEY COULD NOT DIAGNOSE OR FIX. I CHECKED THE INTERNET AND DISCOVERED THAT THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM WITH CERTAIN GM VEHICLES AND MANY PEOPLE ARE COMPLAINING. THERE IS A WAY TO START IT SOMETIMES BY WAITING TEN MINUTES WITH KEY IN ACC AND THEN TURNING OFF AND THEN REMOVING THE KEY AND THEN RE STARTING. THIS IS WORKING BUT NOT ALWAYS. APPARENTLY GM IS FULLY AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM BUT HAS TAKEN NO ACTION TO CORRECT IT. I AM AFRAID THAT I MAY BE STRANDED SOMEWHERE OR THE SECURITY SYSTEM COULD POSSIBLY TURN THE CAR OFF. ALSO THERE IS DISCUSSION THAT THIS MAY ALSO BE A BAD IGNITION SWITCH BUT THERE IS NO RECALL FOR THIS VEHICLE FOR THE SWITCH, ONLY THE KEY!
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-14
- VIN: 1G3NL52F63C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOSS POWER WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED AND NEEDED TO HAVE THE PASS LOCK ASSEMBLY AND THE LOCK CYLINDER REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 23,227. UPDATED 02/19/16*LJ *TR
STEERING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-09
- VIN: 1G3NL52E53C
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE
- Summary: MY IGNITION SWITCH DOES NOT INVOKE THE ENGINE. IT HAS HAPPENED COUPLE OF TIMES WITH MY ALERO. LAST YEAR AS PER THE RECALL NOTICE GM DEALER CHANGED THE KEYS AND NOT THE ENTIRE IGNITION MODULE. HAVE SPENT OVER USD 350 IN THE LAST THREE WEEKS AND AGAIN TODAY THE OLDS ALERO IS STOP WORKING. THE IGNITION DOES NOT SEEM TO TURN ON.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-23
- VIN: 1G3NL12E93C
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING FOUR TIMES ON THE INTERSTATE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 117,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I HAD GOT THE IGNITION SWITCH RECALL DONE IT WORK FOR A LITTLE WHILE BUT NOW ITS BACK ACTING UP MY AIRBAG LIGHT HAVE COME ON SINCE THEN AND WILL NOT GO OFF. I HAVE HAD MY CAR CHECK NUMEROUS TIME AND EVERYONE SAYS ITS MY IGNITION THATS MAKING MY CAR TRY NOT TO CRANK. THIS HAPPENS WHEN YOU TO TO TURN ON CAR AND AIRBAG LIGHT HAVE BEEN ON SINCE THIS STARTED HAPPENING.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-03
- VIN: 1G3NK52F03C
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, IT WOULD NOT REMAIN ON AND CONTINUED TO SHUT OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH FAILED. THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS REPLACED AND THE FAILURE WAS REMEDIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000. UPDATED 03/15/16*LJ *JS
2003 Oldsmobile Alero recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2003 Oldsmobile Alero.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 124, 'ACCELERATOR CONTROL SYSTEMS.' IN HOT AMBIENT CONDITIONS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARM MAY STICK AT THE ATTACHMENT TO THE BRACKET AND NOT RETURN TO THE ENGINE IDLE POSITION WHEN THE OPERATOR LIFTS HIS FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL.
- Consequence: FAILURE TO RETURN TO IDLE COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARM AND REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR AND BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ASSEMBLY, IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 20, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
Negative 2003 Oldsmobile Alero car reviews
Positive 2003 Oldsmobile Alero car reviews
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Other than the driver seat feeling like it's broken, I'm so glad to hear that you love the car! Putting about 400 miles a week on a car can be tough, but it's great to know that you find it fun to drive. It's also interesting to hear that your wife, who is a diehard Honda fan, has taken a liking to it.
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This car is really strong! I was in an accident with a Chevy Tahoe that hit my Alero on the passenger side, but the Alero held up really well. Although the inside was messed up, I was able to walk away with only a few bumps and bruises. It's definitely a good car!
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Every aspect of this car has been outstanding. Fit and finish are first rate. The GX sport package is a great value, and the 5-speed getrag tranny is very tight and crisp. I'm not usually a fan of 4 cylinder engines, but the 2.2 ecotec is super smooth, yet still torquey.
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car - I bought it used with 25K miles on it and it has great power when driving! However, I have noticed that it doesn't give very good gas mileage, only about 28 mpg. Unfortunately, after it hit 60K miles, I started having some problems with the Security System. Basically, my car wouldn't start. After some research in the Manual, I found out that it has a Pass Lock Safety Lock. So, in order to start the car, you have to leave it on for 10 minutes on the ON ignition key. I've heard that it may cost around $300 to fix the problem. Additionally, I have noticed a click, click sound on my signals that won't go away. Have you experienced anything similar? Thank you for your time!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it in a bit of a rush, but it has turned out to be worth every penny! The features are really nice for the price, and the ride is so quiet. It's also mechanically sound, which is a huge relief. While the steering is a little disconnected, you still get a decent sense of the road. One thing I really appreciate is the layout of the controls - it seems like they put a lot of thought into it. Overall, I'm really happy with my car and it's been great to me!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Oldsmobile Alero problems:
2003 Oldsmobile Alero Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
Top 2003 Oldsmobile Alero Problems · No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor · Turn Signal Switch May Fail and Cause Hazard Flasher to Click · Front Windows Come ...
Oldsmobile Alero Questions - 2003 Olds Alero will turn over but will ...
Jan 22, 2015 ... if your security light is not blinking then i would look at the crank sensor. common problem. if mechanical can do yourself.
Oldsmobile Alero Starting-Stalling Problems - Page 10 — Car ...
Jun 21, 2006 ... I have a 2003 Olds Alero 2.2 ecotech. I have had trouble with the security system and have had to reset it by turning the key on for 10min.
Common Oldsmobile Alero Problems: Engine Stopped Suddenly ...
Jan 16, 2012 ... If the fuel pressure is dropping off to 10 PSI I suspect the fuel pump even new is failing or full of rust sediments from the bottom of the gas ...
2003 Oldsmobile Alero engine problems | CarComplaints.com
2003 Oldsmobile Alero engine problems with 72 complaints from Alero owners. The worst complaints are engine turns over but won't start, engine stalls/dies ...
Other years of Oldsmobile Alero
Are you having problems with your 2003 Oldsmobile Alero?
Benny Mills 2024-09-25
I bought this car back in 2005 when it had around 20,000 miles on it. It was an ex-rental from California. Currently, it has around 63,250 miles on it and it has/had some issues. The passlock had to be replaced for $460, the suspension starts squeaking annually and I have to take it to the dealer to get it lubricated, and the CD player only takes CDs when it wants to. The 3.4L V6 is nothing to write home about either at 170HP. Based on what I've read, I've been fortunate with this car. My dashboard hasn't started peeling and I haven't had to replace any pumps or bearings. Although functional, the interior seems a bit cheesy. Also, this car can't handle well in the snow. The rear end gives out even with good tires.
Harold Hegmann 2024-09-08
My 2003 Alero has been reliable so far. I'm about to embark on a 2,000 mile trip in the next few days. The only issue I've encountered is with the front driver side tire, which seems to require rotation every 2,500 miles. Additionally, the gas mileage could be better. In my experience, Fords tend to have poor paint jobs and are prone to rusting, which is why I've switched to Chevys. My dad always bought Oldsmobiles, so I took his advice.
Wilburn Simonis 2024-08-28
I purchased this car brand new in April 2003. It was a great car for a while, but unfortunately, after about 50,000 miles, I started experiencing some issues. It began to have a lot of squeaks, rattles, and air leakage, which made it feel much older than it actually was. I had to take it to the shop frequently, and eventually, at 68,000 miles, it experienced a major computer meltdown. Despite my efforts to repair it, I ultimately decided to trade it in and purchase a used Nissan Maxima. Based on my experience, I would not recommend investing your money and time in an Alero.
Travon Pouros 2024-07-18
Congratulations on your new car! It's great to hear that you're enjoying your new 03 Alero. Although the brakes may be a bit numb, it's wonderful to know that they work well and that the steering is responsive when driven hard. The car seems to have a nice balance between sport and economy, making it perfect for both family outings and adventurous drives through the canyon roads. Overall, it sounds like you made a great choice with your purchase!
Mathew Tillman 2024-07-16
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it back in 2006 with 63,000 miles on it and have been driving it for exactly two years now. While I've had to change the bearings in the front twice already, it looks like I might need to do it again soon. I'll be taking it on a 1700-mile trip soon, with some long breaks for sleeping, and I'll know for sure if this car is truly a good one. Thanks for listening!