2002 Oldsmobile Alero GL review from North America

Around 37,000 miles the engine started ticking loudly.

I suspect that it is because I parked on a steep side slope and some "gunk" lodged on the ends of the motor got washed loose, some "sea-foam" got it to quite within minutes of starting the car. I do feel that a low mileage car should not have any "gunk" in the motor, but stuff happens.

At around 39,500 miles my steering wheel started to vibrate and has gotten worse, it becomes harsher when the brakes are applied.

I do see a pattern with everyone's complaints about this. I don't know how to fix it. Although, my tires are being balanced right now, after that I will have the rotors checked and turned if needed. The problem could even start further inside the trans axle, or maybe even the axles themselves. I feel people tend to think they know how fix a certian problem by a common rule they have heard in the past. I don't recommend to just start changing parts to make something go away. I have my parts checked until I find what is definitely not right (it usually shows itself although is difficult to find). I do know that I won't buy three sets of rotors, apparently that is not what is wrong here.

On the better side, I really enjoy the car. It is quick to gain speed and corners feel real secure. I think my car has the stiffer suspension then than the cheaper models, so not everyone's car may handle like this.

I had to get use to reaching farther for the steering wheel (I used to drive truck, this is my first car) but is not uncomfortable.

I would more impressed if the car didn't ding, chime, or stop my off the line tire spinning, I know what I want the car to do and don't like the car to tell me otherwise! I don't even like the option of pushing the little button to turn that junk off, It feels like the performance of the car drops down a notch when you push it.