2000 Oldsmobile Alero GL review from North America

It all started when the front brakes and rotors had to be replaced soon after purchasing the vehicle two years ago. They've needed to be replaced two more times since then.

A recurring gasket problem has lead to multiple expensive engine repair costs.

The button on the gear shift knob broke off while driving. Luckily I had a pen handy that I could shove in there to put the car in park when I got home.

Whenever it rains a lot or snow is melting, the car experiences multiple computer problems. By this, I mean the gauges randomly stop working, the doors constantly lock and unlock, the trunk refuses to stay closed. The car behaves as if possessed.

The control for the driver's side window goes into hibernation for a few weeks at a time once or twice a year.

Activating the rear defrost causes the radio to get nothing but static.

The first three settings on the heat/air fan stopped working.

Every once in a while, the cruise control stops working.

Whevever a kind person I know is behind my car, they let me know that one or both of the brake lights do not work. Whenever a mechanic or myself look, they work.

There's a very loud windy sound coming from the rear passenger door. I've never been able to fix it.

The car looks great, and when there are no engine problems, it drives great as well.

The car is a safety risk in every possible meaning of the phrase. The engine is unreliable at best, and the doors and trunk can sometimes open themselves to become a literal display case for thieves.