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1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our reliability study for this generation Oldsmobile Alero includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Oldsmobile Alero.
1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero Reliability
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Brakes: Pulsation felt in the steering wheel and brake pedal is caused by faulty brake pads and discs. Revised parts are available. (1999-2000)
Cupholders: The console cup holder is too small and a revised console is being replaced under warranty. (2000)
Paint/body: The rear spoiler gets distorted in the hot sun. Also, water gets inside requiring drain holes to be drilled. (1999)
Radiator: The heater hose may pop off of the heater inlet nipple because the original equipment hose clamp fails. (1999-2000)
Water leak: Water leaks under the door and onto the floor due to a bad door gasket. A countermeasure gasket is being installed under warranty. (1999-2000)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $500
Alternator $380
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $1,170
Brakes $430
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $905
Exhaust System $455
Radiator $475
Shocks and/or Struts $895
Timing Chain or Belt $505
NHTSA Recall History
1999-2000: Console cover may not stay closed in a crash.
2001: Owner's manual doesn't adequately explain child-restraint anchorage system. Dealers will send vehicle owners a supplement to their manual.
2001: When the vehicle is shifted from 5th gear into reverse, a shift inhibitor causes the transmission to be in 4th gear even though the lever indicates reverse gear.
2003: In hot ambient conditions, accelerator pedal arm may not return to idle position when gas pedal is released.
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