2001 Oldsmobile Alero GLS review from North America
"A decent car that has appeal. Definitely not a lemon"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
In the first month, the oxygen sensor and oil pressure switch both had to be replaced. Would have cost me $600 upwards, but the used car dealer I got it from covered it under the 30 day power/train warranty (and I thought that warranty was useless! HA!)
Also, the fan only works on the 3rd and 4th settings. All 6 spark plugs and spark wires were a little rusty, so I replaced them myself (preventative). Fan belt as well (preventative).
General comments?
Overall, it is a decent car. I looked into its history, and in its 120k mile life, there has not been anything major. (KNOCK ON WOOD). My Alero has NOT experienced any of those terrible horror stories about not starting, or the electrical systems frying, or the dash starting to peel off. (KNOCK ON WOOD YET AGAIN).
I average 25mpg city, which is impressive for the V6. Styling looks great and the handling is very good. Trans is very smooth and acceleration is unrivaled. I prefer this car over my girlfriend's 2007 Civic any day of the week.
Interior is mostly comfortable and has a pretty roomy backseat for a coupe. Getting in/out of the backseat is a little cramped though. Leather is a little cheap and worn. But after 8 years I'd expect it to be much worse than it is.
Recommended reviews
| Never own one again |
|
| Very good |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2001 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2009 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.4 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 120000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 125000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 6th April, 2009 |