2001 Oldsmobile Alero from North America

Summary:

OK for now - wouldn't buy another one

Faults:

*replaced brake pads 4 times in three years.

(considering the mileage we put on and the fact that the brake pads have a lifetime warranty - if you've got an Alero - get the lifetime warranty - you're going to need it.)

*replaced wheel bearings once - due to traction and anti-lock brakes control switch off.

*cigarette lighter went - replaced fuse.

General Comments:

*compared to Ford Escort Wagon - great - can actually pass transports before passing lane ends.

*good gas mileage.

*kids get car sick in back seat within five minutes of being in vehicle due to window design.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 4th March, 2006

2001 Oldsmobile Alero GX 2.2L 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

It'll catch the girl's eye, and its affordable at the same time

Faults:

Blinkers are scaring me, I was out driving with some friends of mine and they stopped working. I turned the car off and back on again and they worked... but stopped working again. I AGAIN restarted the car and haven't had a problem since than, but it will probably happen again.

The first thing I did when I got the car is re-sealed the windows, so I don't really know if they leak as much as people say they do.

My sunroof, however, I forgot to seal, and I can see the rubber part is stringing off, which isn't really a big deal at all. all you need is the proper glue. either way it doesn't leak and I'm too lazy to seal it now, sometime I will.

General Comments:

For a medium sized engine (2.2L) she's got some power to her. My previous car was a ford focus automatic 2.0L, and my alero is so much more powerful and quicker. I tested the speed (flooring the pedal) and was very pleased to see it shifts into 4th gear after going 85mph. I think my focus would shift into final gear after going 55, hah.

She is quick, I'm yet to test the 0 to 60 but I'm sure it will beat my focus by at least 3 seconds.

The car's interior is basic, lots of leg room, it is a longer car, and I'm 6'4".

I've read other reviews about people complaining about blind spots on the car... I'm yet to find one. I can see just fine while driving. maybe they're just bad drivers.

This car will catch the girls eye for sure. I love this car, but I'm very afraid it's not going to last, but right now its high times because everything works.

Anyway, I'm yet to see the bad side to this car, and I'm crossing my fingers hoping it doesn't exist.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 3rd March, 2006

2001 Oldsmobile Alero GLS from North America

Summary:

To buy an Alero is to truely be sorry!

Faults:

Replaced pistons at 30K. Engine still knocks. I was told this is normal??!

Repaired trans at 35k. The car still shifts hard into all gears.

Replaced heating and cooling system at 46k.

Replaced gas regulator (inside engine) at 54000. It was leaking gas!

Writing is peeling on radio, and door lock buttons.

Sensors are very sensitive such as change oil light, and low tire pressure light.

Front end wheel weights all four fell off!

Front struts replaced! Steering column replaced!

Too many problems to list and with less than 60k!

General Comments:

I have never had more problems with a vehicle in my life!

To buy an Alero is to truely be sorry!

I also have a 95 Taurus with 150k and it runs better than my newer 01 Oldsmobile Alero!

I hate to say never buy an Alero because I am attempting to sell mine!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 8th February, 2006

9th Feb 2006, 08:30

The Alero is one of the reasons that Olds is gone.

13th Jul 2006, 14:01

I just bought a used 2001 Alero GL with 38,0000 miles. I got it for a great price, but after reading all of the reviews and notes on the Alero, I am not too sure what kind of deal I got.

Would anyone recommend me to keep/sell/trade, sooner or later?

Thanks very much.

Carole.

23rd Jul 2006, 09:38

I have also bought a 2001 Alero used. Outside of maintenance issues, and brake sensors, my car has been great.

9th Oct 2006, 21:49

I've had my 2001 Alero for 4 years I had the same routine maintenance and sensor problem, but I've put on 110,000 miles (a lot of highway!) and it has been really good to me. I am looking at trading/selling mine, but only because I would like an SUV (which may be a totally bad idea too!). You have to remember, that there will ALWAYS be costs because of the manufacturer or previous owner with ANY vehicle.

29th Dec 2006, 20:36

Carole - I think you should keep your car if theres nothing wrong with it. Some individual cars are sometimes manufactured poorly. Not all Aleros may be POS'.