2002 Oldsmobile Aurora problems
The Oldsmobile Aurora is a luxury sedan, manufactured and marketed by General Motors from 1994 until 2003 over two generations — sharing platforms with Buick Riviera and using the Cadillac-derived G platform. At the time of production, the Aurora was the flagship vehicle in the Oldsmobile lineup. It originated as the 1989 Oldsmobile tube car concept.
The Aurora replaced the Toronado coupe and eventually the Oldsmobile 98, LSS and Regency in the Oldsmobile range — using V8 and V6 engines. It was equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission.
Origins
Early design work on what would become the Aurora began as early as the late 1980s with the 1989 Oldsmobile Tube Car engineering concept, designed by Bud Chandler. In addition to the overall similar shape, the Tube Car featured many detailed elements that were later found on the production automobile, including a full-width taillamp, wraparound rear windshield, and frameless windows. Unlike the eventual production car, the Tube Car used a pillarless hardtop design with suicide doors. The final production design was signed off on in July 1989, originally set for a 1992 start of production.
By the Aurora's introduction, Oldsmobile sales had fallen from a record high of 1,066,122 in 1985 to 402,936 in 1993; rumors of the division's demise were rampant, which GM at the time firmly denied. Competition from Acura, Infiniti and Lexus offered similar products that benefited from superior durability and reliability reputations. GM developed the Aurora to rejuvenate Oldsmobile as a result. The Aurora bore no Oldsmobile badging save for the radio-CD-cassette deck and engine cover (during focus group testing, potential customers had been repelled when they learned the Aurora was in truth an Oldsmobile). At one point, then-division head John Rock (who had recently arrived from the GMC division) proposed using the Aurora name to replace the Oldsmobile brand entirely and offer cars in a similar fashion to GM's nascent Saturn division (a plan ultimately nixed by the GM higher-ups, though for a period Saturn's no-haggle pricing was implemented). Instead, the Aurora used a stylized A emblem, foreshadowing a similar restyling of Oldsmobile's corporate "rocket" emblem for 1997.
One bizarre footnote of development was a 1993 incident where a prototype Aurora, driven by freelance car reviewer Tim Dunne, was nearly totaled after a four-foot log fell from a Michigan Department of Natural Resources truck (Dunne was able to maneuver the Aurora so much that only the right front wheel was struck); this subsequently led then-governor John Engler to purchase an Aurora (Engler having been a life-long Oldsmobile customer).
Oldsmobile subsequently borrowed Aurora styling cues for its Intrigue and compact Alero models.
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Common 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora problems
The Oldsmobile Aurora, particularly the second-generation models from 2001 to 2003, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.
One of the most common issues is engine misfires, which can lead to reduced power, rough idling, and decreased fuel efficiency. This problem can be caused by various factors, including a malfunctioning Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, a dirty or clogged air filter, a faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve, a malfunctioning camshaft position sensor, a faulty oxygen sensor, or a vacuum leak. It is crucial to diagnose and address the root cause of the engine misfire to prevent further engine damage and reduced fuel efficiency.
Another common issue in the second-generation Aurora is fuel pump failure, which can lead to the engine dying while driving or the car not starting at all.
The power steering pump whine is also a common problem in the second-generation Aurora, which can be caused by a faulty power steering pump or low power steering fluid levels.
In addition to these common issues, specific problems have been reported for different models and trim levels of the Aurora. For example, the base model of the Aurora has been reported to have intake manifold gasket failure and alternator failure, while the Aurora 4.0 has been reported to have suspension component wear and catalytic converter failure.
The 4.0-liter V8 engine in the Aurora has been reported to have camshaft position sensor failure, head gasket failure, and fuel injector failure, while the 3.5-liter V6 engine has been reported to have timing chain tensioner failure, water pump failure, and valve cover gasket leaks.
The first generation of the Aurora, produced from 1995 to 1999, has also been reported to have engine misfire and ABS system failure, as well as HVAC control module failure.
The brake system in the Aurora has also been reported to have issues, including brake pad wear, rotor warping, and brake caliper sticking.
It is important to note that some of these issues may be more prevalent in certain model years or trim levels than others. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent or address these common problems in the Oldsmobile Aurora.
What happened to the Oldsmobile Aurora?
The second generation Aurora went into production on November 1, 1999, and went on sale in February 2000 as a 2001 model. The last V6-powered Auroras was assembled on June 21, 2002. The final 500 Auroras ended production on March 28, 2003.
Who makes the Aurora engine?
The Oldsmobile Aurora Indy V8 engine is a 3.5-liter to 4.0-liter, naturally-aspirated, V-8 Indy car racing engine, designed, developed and produced by Oldsmobile, for use in the IRL IndyCar Series; from 1996 to 2001.
What kind of car is an Aurora?
Oldsmobile Aurora 4.0L V8 specs
| Car type | 4-door saloon |
|---|---|
| Curb weight | 1725 kg (3803 lbs) |
| Introduced | 2002 |
| Origin country | United States |
| Views | 783 |
How fast is a Oldsmobile Aurora?
Performance
| 0 - 30 mph | 3.2 s |
|---|---|
| 0 - 90 mph | 17.9 s |
| 0 - 100 mph | 22.5 s |
| 1/4 mile | 16.5 s @ 86.0 mph |
| Top speed | 217 kph (135 mph) |
2002 Oldsmobile Aurora car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Oldsmobile Aurora problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Steering problems
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora
The NHTSA has received 27 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora vehicles.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 1G3GR64H424
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The Frame has rust under door panel broke Car Frame body near battery cave in hole and rusting hole in trunk near spare tire.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- VIN: 1G3GR64H424
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: I am adding new parts to this vehicle 100 000 tune up
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-07
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: MY 2002 AURORA V6, RPM STARTED ACTING HAYWIRE IT SHOT UP TO 8 GRAND AT 30 MPH. THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION WERE ACTING NORMAL. IT HAPPENED AGAIN 2 DAYS LATTER THEN ALL OF MY DASH LIGHTS AND HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT. I TOOK IT IN TO THE SHOP. I HAD THE TRANS VACUUM SENSOR CHANGED ALONG WITH THE HEADLIGHTS. THIS DID THE TRICK FOR 24 HOURS. NOT I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM AND THE DEALER CAN NOT FIGURE OUT WHAT IS WRONG OR HOW TO FIX IT. CAN SOMEONE HELP WITH THIS. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-01
- VIN: 1G3GR64H224
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 OLDSMOBILE AURORA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FUEL SPILLED OUT FROM THE FILLER NECK WHILE REFUELING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THE VIN FAILED TO QUALIFY FOR THE RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 03V238000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 147,473 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 147,673. UPDATED 03/15/12 *BF UPDATED 03/23/12
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-07
- VIN: 1G3GR64H524
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: BROKEN/SNAPPED SWAY BAR LINK, LEFT SIDE FRONT. CAR SWERVED TO THE LEFT, NO ACCIDENT UPON SNAP. UPON INVESTIGATION/REPLACEMENT THE BOLT WAS RUSTED THROUGH AT MID POINT AND SNAPPED. I SAVED THE BROKEN PART, IF IT IS NEEDED. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-04-28
- VIN: 1G3GS64C024
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MY 2002 AURORA 4.0L SUDDENLY LOCKED IN THE LEFT TURN STEERING MODE. I WAS IN A PARKING LOT AND WAS MAKING A TURN ON THE AISLE. AFTER THE TURN I TRIED TO STRAIGHTEN THE WHEELS AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS LOCKED. THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING. I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND AVOIDED HITTING THE ONCOMING CAR (THE OTHER DRIVER DID THE SAME). I WAS ABLE TO MOVE INTO A PARKING SPOT AND CONFIRMED THE POWER STEERING BELT WAS TURNING THE POWER STEERING PUMP AND THE PUMP RESERVOIR WAS FULL. BY WORKING THE STEERING WHEEL BACK AND FORTH THE STEERING RESUMED TO THE RIGHT, BUT NOT TO THE LEFT. THIS IS SCARY. IT HAPPENED THE SAME WAY ON MY WIFE'S 2008 ENCLAVE. GM REPLACED LOTS OF PARTS BEFORE IT STARTED STEERING AGAIN. IS THIS A GM ISSUE? *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-27
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE A 2002 OLDS AURORA THAT TODAY HAS WATER STANDING IN THE BACK PASSENGER FLOORBOARD FOR THE TENTH OR TWELFTH TIME. THIS HAS HAPPENED SO MUCH THAT I HAVE LOST TRACK OF HOW MANY TIMES I HAVE HAD TO TAKE MY CAR TO THE DEALER TO HAVE IT FIXED. WHEN IT RAINS WATER LEAKS IN FROM THE FRONT PASSENGER WIDOW SEAL ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE WINDOW ABOUT HALFWAY DOWN AND THEN RUNS DOWN TO THE MOLDING AT DOOR OPENING AT THE FLOORBOARD. FROM THERE IT THEN RUNS DIAGONALLY BACK TOWARD THE BACK PASSENGER FLOORBOARD ALONG THE MOLDING AND POOLS UP. LIKE THIS MORNING, THERE HAS BEEN MANY TIMES THAT TWO INCHES OF WATER IS PRESENT. I AM CONCERNED ABOUT MILDEW OR ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS THAT MAY BE PRESENT OR MAY SHOW UP AS A RESULT OF THIS CONTINUAL PROBLEM. THE DEALER DOESN'T SEEM TO HAVE A CLUE ON HOW TO FIX THIS, ORIGINALLY THEY KEPT REPLACING THE DOOR SEAL ON THE BACK DOOR. NOW FOR SOME TIME THEY HAVE REPLACED THE SEAL ON THE FRONT DOOR OR FRONT WINDOW. BUT THE LEAK CONTINUES. I UNDERSTAND THAT THERE IS A TSB ON THIS ISSUE. THE DEALER TELLS ME TODAY THAT THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL ISSUES LIKE MINE IN OTHER AURORA MODELS. I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY THEY DO NOT KNOW HOW TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-18
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START PROPERLY. SO I TOOK MY AURORA IN TO HAVE IT SERVICED AND FOUND OUT IT WAS THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSOR, WHICH THEN I WAS TOLD THIS DEFECTIVE PART COULD HAVE CAUSED A FIRE. THIS SOUNDS LIKE A VERY UNSAFE PART AND I LOOKED THE PART UP AND FOUND OUT THAT IT HAD BEEN RECALLED AT ONE POINT, JUST NOT ON THE MY MAKE OF VEHICLE. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE ABOUT THIS BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-28
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I NOTICE WHEN I AM DRIVING THAT THE HEAD LIGHTS WILL FLICKER EVERY ONCE IN AWHILE. I ALSO HAD THE DASH LIGHTS GO OUT ON ME IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT, THIS WOULD BE THE SECOND TIME THIS PART HAD BEEN FIXED. A FEW MONTHS LATER THE HEATING COMPONENT WENT OUT. I HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT TROUBLE WITH THIS VEHICLE SINCE I BOUGHT IT. THIS VEHICLE NEEDS TO BE RECALLED OR STATED UNDER THE LEMON LAW. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-06
- VIN: 1G3GR64HX24
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: FACTORY SUPPLIED WHEELS RUST CAUSING AIR LOSS. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-10
- VIN: 1G3GR64H024
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THERE IS A CLUNG/NOISE COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN DURING TURNS AT SLOW SPEEDS. IT CAN ALSO BE FELT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS NOT MOVING AS TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL. A REQUEST WAS SENT TO CUSTOMER SERVICE AT GM REQUESTING ASSISTANCE IN PAYING FOR THIS REPAIR. THEY REFUSED TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY PAYMENT SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY EVEN THOUGH THERE HAD BEEN SEVERAL TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS (TSB) ISSUED BASED ON CUSTOMERS PROBLEMS. A PAYMENT OF AT LEAST 50% OF THE COST OF REPAIRS SHOULD HAVE BEEN TENDERED BY GM. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-02
- VIN: 1G3GR64H424
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I HAVE A 2002 OLDSMOBILE AURORA WITH A V6 ENGINE THAT HAS THE SAME SYSTEM AS THE V8. THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSORS ARE UNUSUALLY SUSCEPTIBLE TO MALFUNCTIONS. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-24
- VIN: 1G3GR64H224
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THAT EVERY 1500 MILES, THE STEERING WHEEL MADE A POPPING AND CRACKING NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A SERVICE DEALER, WHERE THE STEERING SECTOR SHAFT WAS LUBRICATED, HOWEVER THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. THE REPAIR WORKED INTERMITTENTLY, BUT THEN HAD TO BE REDONE LATER.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-14
- VIN: 1G3GS64C624
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE RIGHT REAR WINDOW OPENED BY ITSELF WHILE DRIVING AND WILL NOT GO BACK UP. THE DEALER REPLACED DEFECTIVE WINDOW REGULATOR. ABOUT A MONTH LATER THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO LEFT REAR WINDOW. I PAID TO HAVE THE DEALER CHANGE THAT WINDOW REGULATOR ALSO. THIS WAS VERY DISTRACTING WHILE DRIVING. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-03
- VIN: 1G3NL52E52C
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP FAILED. SHE HAD NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO ANY DEALER OR MECHANIC TO HAVE IT INSPECTED FOR THE FAILURE. NO REPAIRS WERE DONE TO THE VEHICLE FOR THE FUEL PUMP PROBLEM.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-08
- VIN: 1G3GR64H124
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1. DRIVING TO WORK IN THE MORNING WITH THE HEADLIGHTS ON 2. ALTERNATOR AMPS CHARGING FROM 13.2 - 15.7 AMPS, HEADLIGHTS AND INSTRUMENT LIGHTS WILL FLICKER WHEN THIS IS HAPPENING. 3. REPLACED GENERATOR, 1 10464442 W-GEN REM PART NUMBER 10464442 THIS WAS DONE ON MAY 9, 2003. SERVICE MANAGER SAID IT WAS BECAUSE OF AN AIR PUMP FOR THE ANTI POLUTION SYSTEM ON THE AURORA WITH V6 ENGINES, THAT DRAWS ALOT OF AMPS AND THAT THE GENERATOR COULD NOT COMPENSATE FAST ENOUGH.*AK IN FEBRUARY OF THIS YEAR THE SAME THING HAPPENED. I AGAIN HAD THE GENERATOR REPLACED ETC..THE SERVICE MANAGER REPORTED TO ME THAT THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD NOT GO TOTALLY OUT...!!! AND THAT THE ONLY WAY TO MAKE SURE THAT IT DIDN'T HAPPEN AGAIN WAS TO DISCONNECT THE PUMP BUT THAT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD GO ON!! I OPTED TO NOT DO THIS. I THINK THIS IS A DANGEROUS SITUATION AND I ASK YOU TO LOOK INTO THIS.
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-16
- VIN: 1GHDT13S522
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE OWNED MY CAR FOR A TOTAL OF 3 WEEKS. WHEN TAKING THE CAR FOR A TEST DRIVE BEFORE BUYING IT, I NOTICED A "CLICKING" IN THE STEERING. I WAS TOLD IT WOULD BE FIXED. I HAVE ALREADY HAD THE CAR IN 3 TIMES, AND THE PART IS STILL NOT FIXED. AFTER BRINGING IT TO AN INDEPENDANT DEALER, TURNS OUT THE SR COIL NEEDS REPLACED. ALSO, THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR REVS LOUDLY UNTIL 30MPH. THAT HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED AS THE ENGINE FAN BEING BLOWN. I ALSO COMPLAINED THAT THE ALL WHEEL DRIVE LIGHT WAS COMING ON AND I WASN'T GETTING ANY TRACTION. APPARENTLY THE TRANSFER CASE CLUTCH PLATES ARE SLIPPING! NOT ONLY WAS THIS VEHICLE ALLOWED TO BE SOLD WITH THESE MAJOR MALFUNCTIONS, BUT THE DEALERSHIP IS ALSO FIGHTING COVERING THE COSTS. I RESEARCHED THE HISTORY OF THIS VEHICLE (AFTER BUYING IT), AND FOUND THAT IT HAS BEEN SEEN ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS FOR A MULTITUDE OF THINGS. I AM EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED!*AK
STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-15
- VIN: 1G3GR64H924
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CLUNKING NOISE IN FRONT END/UNDERCARRAIGE, ON TURNS OR BUMPS, CAN BE FELT IN STEERING, SINCE 15000 MILES (NOTICED SOMETIME AFTER IMPLODED GAS TANK REPLACEMENT). FOUR DEALERS WORKED ON AT LEAST 10 TIMES - REPLACED STEERING GEAR, LUBED INTERMEDIATE SHAFT, REPLACED STRUT BEARINGS, REPLACED INTERMEDIATE SHAFT, REPLACED REAR SHOCK - STILL CLUNKS OVER BUMPS AND STEERING GRINDING NOISE IS BACK SINCE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT REPLACEMENT. AFTER STEERING GEAR REPLACEMENT AT 26750, SEVERE VIBRATION WAS NOTICED; TOOK FOUR ATTEMTS (3 DEALERS) TO MAKE ACCEPTABLE FINALLY AT 36137. HEADLAMPS FLICKER INTERMITTENTLY, GENERATOR REPLACED AT 30311, 4 DEALERS SAY IS NORMAL. FUEL FILLER DOOR STILL STICKS INTERMITTENTLY, AT LEAST 3 REPAIR ATTEMPTS. CAR DOES NOT FEEL SAFE WITH FRONT END/STEERING/UNDERBODY CLUNKING - FEELS LIKE SOME COMPONENT(S) IS DEFECTIVE OR PREMATURELY WORN OUT - EACH DEALER MADE REPAIR ATTEMPT, THEN WHEN UNSUCCESSFUL SAID VEHICLE WAS NORMAL. ONE DEALER NEVER ROADTESTED VEHICLE. LAST DEALER MECHANIC SAID NEEDED RACK, SERVICE MANAGER SAID VEHICLE WAS NORMAL. 43000 MILES NOW - GM AREA SERVICE MANAGER REFUSES TO DO ANY FURTHER REPAIRS.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-24
- VIN: 1G3GS64C224
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BEGINNING IN MAY 2003 WE HAVE HAD OUR 2002 OLDSMOBILE AURORA STALL EIGHT DIFFERENT TIMES. IT ALWAYS STALL AFTER BEING DRIVEN ON INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS. IT STALLED MOST OFTEN WHILE LEAVING EXIT RAMPS AND MAKING LEFT TURNS ONTO SURFACE STREETS. ONCE IT STALLED AT A TOLL BOOTH. THE LOCAL DEALER CHANGED PARTS IN MAY 2003 AND FEBRUARY 2004. AFTER THE LAST TWO INCIDENTS IN MAY 2004, THEY HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSE, BUT ARE STILL TRYING. WE HAVE NOT HAD AN ACCIDENT YET, BUT WITH THE CAR STALLING AS WE CROSS BUSY HIGHWAYS, WE COULD HAVE BEEN HIT BROADSIDE AT LEAST TWO TIMES. *LA
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-24
- VIN: 1G3GR64H524
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE HAD MY 2002 AURORA FOR 2 YEARS AND HAVE HAD TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALER ALMOST A DOZEN TIMES FOR VARIOUS REASONS. NONE OF THEM HAVE BEEN ABOUT THE ENGINE. THIS CAR HAS BEEN A PROBLEM FROM THE VERY FIRST DAY I PICKED IT UP AT THE DEALER. IT HAD A DEFECTIVE PAINT JOB AND THEY HAD TO REPAINT THE CAR. REPLACED THE WINDSHIELD TWICE BECAUSE IT WAS DEFECTIVE. THE MOST ANNOYING THING IS A LOUD SNAPPING NOISE FROM THE FRONT RIGHT SIDE OF THE CAR WHICH THEY CANNOT FIX. I HAD THE CAR IN FOR REPAIR FOR THIS AT LEAST 6 TIMES. THERE IS A CLICKING NOISE (LIKE A LOUD CLOCK) COMING FROM UNDER THE CENTER OF THE DASH. THERE IS A SQUEALING NOISE FROM THE FRONT RIGHT OF THE CAR WHEN YOU FIRST ACCELERATE FROM A STAND STILL. TO DATE, NOTHING CAN BE DONE TO FIX THE CAR. THE HEADLIGHTS FLICKER CONSTANTLY. MOST OF THE TIME THE DEALER SAID THEY CANNOT RE-CREATE THE NOISES. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-15
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHTS FLICKER IN COLD WEATHER ABOUT ONCE EVERY 10 SECONDS. MULTIPLE GENERATORS HAVE BEEN INSTALLED ON THE VEHICLE WHICH HAVE NOT FIXED THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE HEARD THAT THIS PROBLEM IS VERY WIDE SPREAD ON THIS VEHICLE TYPE. AURORA 3.5L.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-03
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. THE TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT APPEARED ON THE DASHBOARD. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-29
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ABOUT 70MPH AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD NOISE FROM THE REAR, THE RIGHT REAR TIRE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE. PLEASE FILL IN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE TIRE. DEALER IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-17
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, THERE WAS A NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G3GR64A624
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DAMAGED WIRING HARNESS. VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT AND THE WIRING HARNESS THAT RUNS ACROSS THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED. VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED DUE TO LACK OF PARTS. *TT *NLM
2002 Oldsmobile Aurora recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN CADILLAC DEVILLE AND SEVILLE PASSENGER VEHICLES, FUNERAL COACHES, AND LIMOUSINES EQUIPPED WITH A V8 (4.6L) ENGINE, OLDSMOBILE AURORA PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A V8 (4.0L ) ENGINE, AND PONTIAC BONNEVILLE SSEI PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A SUPERCHARGED V6 (3.8L) ENGINE, THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSORS ARE UNUSUALLY SUSCEPTIBLE TO MALFUNCTIONS. IF THE SENSOR MALFUNCTIONS, EXCESSIVE VACUUM CAN BE APPLIED DURING SELF-DIAGNOSTIC TESTING.
- Consequence: FUEL SYSTEM COMPONENTS CAN BE DAMAGED AND FUEL CAN LEAK FROM THE VEHICLE WHEN IT IS REFUELED. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON OCTOBER 17, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537; OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER, MINI VANS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES HAVE AN AIR BAG INFLATOR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE THAT COULD FRACTURE AT A WELD DURING A DEPLOYMENT.
- Consequence: PIECES OF THE INFLATOR COULD STRIKE AND INJURE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS AND THE AIR BAG CUSHION WOULD NOT INFLATE FULLY, REDUCING THE CAPABILITY OF THE BAG TO PROTECT THE DRIVER.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT, AND REPLACE, IF NECESSARY, THE AIR BAG MODULE ASSEMBLY ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 15, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-800-521-7300, CADILLAC AT 1-800-458-8006, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537, OR PONTIAC AT 1-800-762-2737.
Negative 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora car reviews
Positive 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora car reviews
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This car is destined to become one of the Great Classics, not only because it is scheduled for termination by GM, but also because it is a rare jewel in the growing field of personal Luxury Cars. Its distinct design makes it something you don't see every few minutes on the freeway. Its personal creature comfort appointments surpass those of most much pricier imports and even Cadillacs.
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Hey there! Have you had a chance to check out the door gaskets on the Oldsmobile Intrigue compared to this vehicle? It's pretty clear why the Aurora can create a lot of wind noise when driving over 55mph. The gaskets on this car are thin and there's only one, whereas the Intrigue has double the amount. Unfortunately, the poor quality of workmanship is evident both inside and outside of the vehicle.
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I have been driving my Aurora for 18 months now and I couldn't be happier with it, especially considering the price. It has been completely reliable and gets great gas mileage, averaging 24 mpg overall. The styling is timeless and the car feels solid and safe. I only wish that GM would make more cars like this so that more people would give them a chance!
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This car truly has it all - looks, performance, handling, and luxury. It does everything so well, all wrapped up in a neat and tidy package. The engine is both smooth and powerful, while still maintaining decent fuel economy. The suspension is able to smooth out any bumps in the road, while also taking corners with aggression. The exterior styling, while not overt, is modern and pleasing to the eyes. Inside, the car is incredibly comfortable and all of the controls fall easily at hand.
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This vehicle is a great value for the money and is probably one of the most underrated vehicles in its class. The build quality is excellent, and the relatively low sales add to the individuality of ownership. If you're looking for a luxury/sport sedan, I highly recommend trying one out. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. Although the V-8 could have had a little more performance given its design, it still provides a great driving experience. I had one minor problem that was fixed by the dealer the first time. Overall, it's a very comfortable car. If you're considering purchasing one, I encourage you to do so!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora problems:
2002 Oldsmobile Aurora Problems and Complaints - 19 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora? Our list of 19 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora.
Oldsmobile Aurora Engine Problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Jun 2, 2007 ... The car still had the same issues so I took it back to the mechanic. The car would now stumble when trying to start, but start and also ...
Q&A: 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora - Cylinder Issues & Leaks
Jun 8, 2015 ... Two months ago it threw a code for misfire cylinder 1. I replaced the ignition coil and the boots and the spark plugs. Car ran fine for a week.
4.0 longterm reliability | Aurora Club of North America (ACNA) Forum
Jan 2, 2005 ... The oil leak on the early Aurora 4.0 is not as bad as the amount of alternators that the 3800 eats, as well as the upper intake failure as well ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 2001 Oldsmobile Aurora Trunk & Door ...
Apr 7, 2009 ... All fuses ok.Changed drivers door module from junk yard and still nothing works. Is this a common problem and how do I fix it.
Other years of Oldsmobile Aurora
Are you having problems with your 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora?
Arnulfo Stoltenberg 2025-01-13
Let me start by saying that if you're looking for a car that can give you the experience of wind inside the vehicle (even with all the windows up), then this is the car for you. However, it's worth noting that the weather-stripping around the doors is cheap, thin, and narrow, and the pillars surrounding the doors lack insulation, which can result in a fair amount of wind noise, particularly at highway speeds above 55 mph.
Tad O'Connell 2024-11-27
Overall, I'm glad to hear that you're happy with the car! I understand that you're looking for more power and better build quality, and a 5-speed would be a nice addition as well.
Dashawn Bechtelar 2024-05-04
I'm so glad we have the state's lemon law to protect us. I've been driving this car for over a year now, after trading in my Intrigue. Unfortunately, I've had to bring it in for warranty work 8 times already. While some issues have been resolved, there's still a persistent episodic glitch in the steering/suspension that just won't go away. The rack and pinion, steering column, and wheel bearings have all been replaced during three separate multi-day stays in the shop. I'm really curious about the ratchety feel in the steering. It's such a shame that my dream car has turned into a bit of a nightmare.
Simeon Goldner 2024-03-01
I fell in love with my car when my husband brought it home. However, we have had numerous problems since we got the Aurora. Early in 2002, the wipers stopped working, weather stripping began leaking on the driver's side and had to be replaced. The back panel separating the trunk from the back seat will not stay attached, and the driver's side window works
Ralph Kautzer 2024-01-09
I bought this car for my 18 year old son instead of a 5-Series BMW, which many inexperienced and non-affluent drivers tend to compare it to. Unfortunately, I have not had a great experience with this car. The leather feels cheap, the engine is noisy, and various interior pieces have broken. The door locks have also stopped working. While this car is marketed as a luxury car, I do not believe it lives up to that standard. I would recommend spending the extra money on a true luxury car such as Mercedes, Volvo, BMW, or Jaguar. On Edmunds luxury page, you will not find Oldsmobile, Buick, or Chrysler listed.