1999 Oldsmobile Alero GX review from North America
"Decent car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Pin hole in gas tank. Replaced myself, $50.
Front coil springs (2007 & 2009), Shop did the first. Friend and I did the second, $360.
Front brake calipers replaced in 2008.
Left side bolt rusted and broke off in the caliper. Nothing wrong with right, but didn't want to chance it. $200 for both, parts and labour.
Left hub assembly replaced. 2008. Did with neighbor's help for $150.
General comments?
The biggest thing that bugged me was the coil springs. I was lucky they didn't take the tires with them.
The tank was an easy fix, but now the engine light stays on because the gas pressure isn't right on (had it checked), but no real problems.
The brakes and other maintenance I've done myself, and have only done them all once in the time I've owned the car. I have never had a problem with them squealing after I put them on.
Overall, I am happy with the car. Just have to find a slightly bigger one, as a 2 door isn't the greatest for a family.
I do a lot of highway driving, and get around 650 to 700 kilometers on a tank, which isn't bad considering the year of the car.
Mechanically, I would say it runs and performs as well as when I got it. A good investment at $8000 from the dealer, and as a first car.
Recommended reviews
| Great bargain |
|
| Cheap in more ways than one |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 140000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 250000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 24th March, 2009 |