1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2004 Oldsmobile Alero
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1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero ▼
- Price Range: $1,700 - $7,300
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Control layout
- Acceleration (V6)
- Quietness
Cons
- Rear visibility (coupe)
- Engine noise (4-cylinder)
- Rear-seat entry/exit (coupe)
Vehicle Highlights
Oldsmobile launched the front-drive compact Alero coupe and 4-door sedan for 1999, to replace the slow-selling Achieva. Basic design was shared with the Pontiac Grand Am. Both body styles came in base GX, better-equipped GL, and top-line GLS trim levels. GX and GL models used a dual-camshaft 4-cylinder engine. A V6 was optional for the GL but standard on GLS models. Only a 4-speed automatic transmission was available initially. All-disc antilock braking and traction control were standard. A tire-pressure monitor was standard on GL and GLS Aleros, and GLS coupes could have an optional performance suspension.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Oldsmobile Alero GL1 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 5 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 49 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero.
Year to Year Changes
2000 Oldsmobile Alero:
A 5-speed manual transmission supplied by Getrag was available for 2000. "GL" models came in three levels: 1, 2, and 3, the latter equipped with the V6 engine. Manual shift was standard on GX and GL1 versions, with automatic an option. Three child-seat anchors on the rear parcel shelf were new this year. A new Sport package for GLs included the firmer performance suspension, previously reserved only for the GLS, including 16-inch alloy wheels and wider tires.
2001 Oldsmobile Alero:
Alero's V6 engine was more widely available this year, newly optional for the GL and GL2, and additional standard equipment was installed. The GL3 edition was dropped. GX models gained power windows, cruise control and a standard CD player. The GL1 added keyless remote entry, while the GL2 gained a sport suspension and rear spoiler. In December 2001, General Motors announced that the Oldsmobile brand would begin a phaseout, but Aleros continued into the 2002 model year.
2002 Oldsmobile Alero:
GX and GL1 models got a 140-hp 2.2-liter 4-cyl engine. It replaced the 150-hp 2.4, which had lower EPA fuel-economy ratings.
2003 Oldsmobile Alero:
Available XM satellite radio and deletion of standard antilock brakes on lower-line models were the only significant changes for 2003.
2004 Oldsmobile Alero:
Alero remains unchanged for 2004.
Our road test for the 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Although the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine delivers plenty of power, it lacks refinement, vibrating at idle and getting loud in hard acceleration. A brief test drive indicated that the 2.2-liter 4 cyl trades a little power for slightly smoother, quieter operation, but it should be strong enough for most driving situations. The V6 adds some welcome low-speed muscle and runs a lot smoother and quieter than the 2.4-liter. It's strong from a standing start and responds quickly for passing. Torque steer (pulling to the side under hard acceleration) came as a penalty for the zesty V6 engine, however. Aleros with the V6 averaged 21.6 to 23.7 mpg. Alero's automatic transmission is about as slick-operating as any, offering smooth, prompt downshifts with little tendency to "hunt" between gears. Manual shift adds a dash of sportiness, but does not shift as smoothly as the gearboxes in a Honda or Toyota. Capable road manners combine with comfort, as a result of the Alero's rigid structure and supple suspension. Still, despite good grip in steady cornering, an Alero cannot match import-brand sport sedans. Though it feels athletic in curves, Oldsmobile's compact is less nimble than, say, a Ford Contour SE. Steering feels artificially heavy and the car can feel unsure in quick transitions, though directional stability is great otherwise. Neither suspension rides harshly over bumps, but compliance and control don't really stand out. Wind noise is low, but tires thrum on all but the smoothest surfaces. Large, legible gauges and well-placed controls ease the driving experience. Front bucket seats are a bit narrow, with insubstantial padding and without much lateral support, but are comfortable anyway. Front head and leg room are good. Rear-seat space in sedans rivals some midsized cars, but entry/exit isn't so easy with the coupe. Visibility is good in sedans, but thick roof pillars impede over-the-shoulder views in coupes. A small opening and high liftover impairs trunk loading.
Value for the Money
Satisfying in ordinary use, the Alero behaves admirably on twisting roads and feels more mature than its Pontiac Grand Am cousin. Acceleration with the V6 is another "plus," but Aleros cannot match import-brand rivals in refinement. Value is enhanced by its long list of standard features.
Satisfying in ordinary use, the Alero behaves admirably on twisting roads and feels more mature than its Pontiac Grand Am cousin. Acceleration with the V6 is another "plus," but Aleros cannot match import-brand rivals in refinement. Value is enhanced by its long list of standard features.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Oldsmobile Alero GL1 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 5 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 49 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
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 .
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 |
Our price chart for this generation Oldsmobile Alero details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2004 | |||
| Alero | $5,800-6,800 | $5,000-5,900 | $2,400-2,900 |
| Alero GLS | $7,200-8,200 | $6,400-7,300 | $3,500-4,000 |
| 2003 | |||
| Alero | $4,700-5,500 | $3,900-4,600 | $1,800-2,100 |
| Alero GLS | $5,900-6,700 | $5,100-5,800 | $2,500-2,800 |
| 2002 | |||
| Alero | $3,800-4,500 | $3,100-3,700 | $1,200-1,400 |
| Alero GLS | $4,700-5,500 | $3,900-4,600 | $1,800-2,100 |
| 2001 | |||
| Alero | $3,000-3,600 | $2,300-2,800 | $700-800 |
| Alero GLS | $3,800-4,500 | $3,100-3,700 | $1,200-1,400 |
| 2000 | |||
| Alero | $2,700-3,300 | $2,000-2,500 | $600-700 |
| Alero GLS | $3,400-4,000 | $2,700-3,200 | $900-1,000 |
| 1999 | |||
| Alero | $2,400-3,000 | $1,700-2,200 | $500-600 |
| Alero GLS | $3,000-3,600 | $2,300-2,800 | $700-800 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Oldsmobile Alero include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.0 | 107.0 |
| Overall Length, in. | 186.7 | 186.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.1 | 70.1 |
| Overall Height, in. | 54.5 | 54.5 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3026 | 3077 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.6 | 14.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 14.3 | 15.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.4 | 38.4 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.2 | 42.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.0 | 37.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.5 | 35.5 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
A 2.4-liter dual-overhead-cam 4-cylinder engine, rated at 150 horsepower, went into the GX and GL editions. Either a 5-speed manual (starting in 2000) or 4-speed automatic transmission could be installed. Standard in the GLS and optional in the GL was a 3.4-liter V6, producing 170 horsepower and offered only with an automatic transmission. 2002 GX and GL1 models got a 140-hp 2.2-liter 4-cyl engine in place of the 150-hp 2.4.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V6 | 3.4 / 207 | 170 | 200 | 4-speed automatic: 20/32 | 4-speed automatic: 21.6 |
| dohc I4 | 2.2 / 134 | 140 | 150 | 5-speed manual: 25/33 4-speed automatic: 24/32 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 2.4 / 146 | 150 | 155 | 5-speed manual: 22/31 4-speed automatic: 22/30 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Oldsmobile Alero include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Alero |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
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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