2001 Oldsmobile Alero GL 2.4 from North America
Summary:
Good car, sad to see the Alero's never going to be made again
Faults:
2 window regulators and 1 flat tire.
Replacing the brakes for the first time since I had the car @ 89,000 miles, NOT BAD HUH?
General Comments:
I wonder what some of you people do to your cars? I have had no problems with the car. No warning lights, no squeaks, no major parts to replace, only the 2 window regulators because of the plastic breaking.
The Alero is a great headache free car to have. Great driving and great gas mileage. Take care of the car and she will take care of you. I do ALL my repairs myself, grab a book and go!
I have read nightmares on the car, and yes I feel sorry for all of you, but I wonder why mine is problem free and there are others that have the lemon of the lot?
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 30th July, 2006
30th Jun 2006, 13:07
Hi there. I'm responding because I too own an 2001 3.4 L v-6 Alero. I put far more money into my 1996 (Ford) Probe, but that's beside the point.
I was told that front brakes last roughly 26K before they need replacing on GM's, especially Grand Am, Malibu and Alero models (regardless of the type of brake pad you use). I find this to be true.
I've also spent $350 four times on my front wheel bearings (both were replaced twice).
My struts have seized up on the top portion, which in turn makes a horrendous sound when turning -- almost like a boot or (CV) joint is cracked or breaking, and it throws the car out of alignment as well.
I drive in very harsh winters with a lot of snow and salt on the highways, and I put about 300+ miles on the car per week. As a result, my entire car is visibly beginning to rust, (another GM problem - metal or paint I was told), and my entire hood needs replacing as it is coming apart in chunks near the lip.
My starter has always been reluctant to catch initially, and I had a 6 hour repair job (I had a radiator intake leak -- probably due to rust) done and it involves taking apart the entire engine to access the area.
My radio, CD player, electric windows and seat, and lighting system have never given me any problems. (My lettering and numbers on the buttons are wearing off as well.)
Once I get the struts repaired (another $300), the car will be an extremely comfortable ride as Oldsmobile is always known for their sweet suspensions.
Here's my stats: bought the car (used) in 2002 with 26K (immediately needed new front brakes within the first week), and now (June 2006), I have 132K on it. So, not bad really compared to the Probe... by the way, can you take the key out of the ignition as it's running and not have any problem doing so?