1999 OLDSMOBILE Alero

One of my favorites

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

This is my 80 mi. RT commuter. Bought as a GX coupe with 33k on the clock from a GM dealer, 4 Cyl. 2.4L LD9 engine, auto trans, manual windows, a/c. Sporty handling, good acceleration. Great Delco audio system. Since I've had it, replaced front wheel bearings, brake pads, brake rotors (these seem to warp easy), water pump, alternator. Be sure you keep the oil topped off on these; I switched to 10W-30 when the mileage was getting up there (it was starting to use a lot of 5W-30). Use a better quality oil filter on these also. Only electrical issue I've had involved the instrument cluster and the vent fan; it used to cut in and out randomly in wet weather. Now getting ready to put it to pasture; it's now got cancer behind the doors and 241,000 on it. (It still has the original spark plugs in it!)

Reliable and surprisingly long lasting

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 4

This car now has 208000+ miles on it and it still runs great. All of the motor mounts have been replaced, but it still vibrates like crazy when its in drive and the brake is on. I am afraid it may be the transmission, but at least I get a full-body massage at every stoplight. The interior keeps threatening to fall apart. I keep making small repairs to the brackets that hold the driver's side mirror adjustment and the ash tray beside the steering wheel. The trac-off light is quite a pest though and it [the car] sometimes hesitates or skips when the driver accelerates. Very good handling and pretty decent spunk to the engine. Overall way worth the money, I would recommend this car to anybody.

Not Bad...

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I purchased my Alero in 08. Checking the head gaskets prior to purchase is essential since they go bad on the 3.4 V6. Had some minor issues after purchase such a water leak on passenger side console. A cheap foam patch from the dealership corrects this problem. There is also the occasional problems with wheel bearings. Also, the rear defrost system failed due a failure of a control module in the rear of the car. Apart from some rust issues, car is pretty reliable for the most part.

Do Not Buy

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought in 2002 with 38k m and now (2011) has 214k. Pwr Windows break constantly. Intake and Head gaskets go constantly, can limp it along 10k miles at a time with sealer additives, if you are poor and don't mind being stranded constantly. Clearcoat starts peeling all over car around 90k. CD/tape stop working at about 70k. Any work that involves the belt must be done by mech, due to motor mount running through the belt = drop engine ;( The performance on the V-6 is actually really good, when it's running correctly. Security feature will disable your ignition constantly. These complaints apply also to Grand Ams and Aleros from 99-2002. "Dex-Cool" systems= stay away.

Major repairs required every 10,000 miles

Performance: 3 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I have had this car longer than any other vehicle I have owned, not because it is quality, but because it is so frequently broken down, sitting at the shop or waiting for my husband to repair it. Things that have broken: Transmission (over $1400 with 4 mechanics still not fixed) Security like comes on, blinks for exactly 10 minutes during which time, the car will not start ($400 to repair) Breaks repaired 3-4 times including replacing all the break line ($400 - work done mostly by my husband) Gas gauge says empty (have not repaired yet) AC dead ($325- still not fixed) Lots more, but I am running out of space. Overall, I could have bought 2 more of these crap cars for repair $$

Alero's are really death traps

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

I would have my brake pedal go to the floor with no warning. Once this happened I quickly released the pedal and then the pedal worked. Except one time. I was going down a steep hill, and when I put my foot on my brake pedal, I felt NOTHING! Talk about having my heart fall into my stomach, it scared me to death!! I pushed harder and harder on my brake pedal but nothing happened, and when it hit the floor, my life flashed in front of my eyes! I pushed and pumped my brake pedal but nothing happened, my brakes were failing!! I just went into shock when I touched my brake and felt nothing. I was almost at the guard rail, I pumped them one more time and they finally came back and I didn't die

decent car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I had just got this car from the dealer, its a pretty decentcar. i like the 2 door body style. great gas milage. the only thing i dislike is all the problems i had with it with in two weeks. and ive been told the rear seats fold down but have no idea cause i cant find a button or lever for them too. but the car is really nice and id recomend it to anyone so far.

Dependable

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I recieved my Alero after my mother got a new car, and to date I have put 210,000 miles on the car and it is still running great.

HIGH MAINTENANCE!

Performance: 3 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 2

I'm the 3rd owner of the alero that I purchased from my parents in '01. They found it to be very uncomfortable & difficult to get in & out of. It was one of many issues that I would have with the car. I've owned it now for 8yrs & every year I've had to put $ into it!I lost count on how many wheel bearings have been replaced.I've replaced engine; airconditioning unit; gas tank; alternator; starter; just to name a few. Currently; the engine is knocking; the car screams with ac or heat on; needs u joint; gas guage doesn't work. It's been very high maintenance & I would not recommend it.

runs good, and lasts long

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

everything in this car worked out really good. it runs great. ive never had any problems with it. before i bought it i heard it wasnt a good car to have. but i love it. the look is great to, its a nice car to have, im glad i bought it

I like my Olds

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my Alero with 143 000 miles. It has been fairly abused and I bought it very cheap. After I washed it, changed oil and filter, replaced power steering pump(reason for sale), cleaned interior, and replaced thermostat and antifreeze among with spark plugs this car runs awesome. It has quite a bit of miles on it, but the 3.4l engine seems to perform very well. I like the fact that is fully loaded. Everything works electrically, and I like the fact that parts are very cheap. Brake pads online run for about $20, for example. Also, I think that this car will run for another 100,000 miles. No signs of giving up. Transmission runs very smooth. I think this might be one of the better GM cars. Thanks

99 Olds Alero 4 door 4cyl

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought the car when I was 17 and beat it to poo. In the three years I owned it I put on 77,000 miles on top of the 45,000. I only had a few problems. It started without the key, gas gauge stopped working along with overflow every time I filled up, tranny slipped when I stomped on the gas. I never put any money into it, I traded it in for $500

Long term owner / teen driven

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This car was bought for my carpool use. I put 60K miles on it in 3 years, mostly highway. Typical hwy 29 mpg (4 cyl) typical city 21-24 mpg. At 64K miles I turned it over to my then teenage druggie Daughter who thrashed it and abused it with her druggie friends for 4 more years. It became a transportation car and lets go to a rave car. I was overseas. The car was trashed. Now she is grownup and wised up and is fine. Car has 146K miles on it and the only thing that has gone wrong is the manual remote drivers mirror cable broke and the ignition switch broke. Other than that, just the usual brake work, fluid changes, (inc auto trans) and tires. Daughter is still driving it.

cheaply made

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

This car is good looking and has a lot of pep. Unfortunately out of view the car is cheaply made. I bought the car with about 50k. The car was a one owner and well maintained so I expected only normal maintenance, but not so. The latest expense, the power window mechanisms have to be replaced,lf an rr, along with the lf window because the clamps that hold the window to the up and down track came off. This latest cost $530. Cruise control switch, front wheel bearings power steering problems in the past. The car has a lot of road noise and the dash is cracking. Ive been a GM fan for years but now I finally understand why so many people buy imports.

Good deal if you find one

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

I bought the car right after Olds stopped making them, so I actually bought the car for about 3K less than it would have been worth had Olds not tanked, which was fine in my eyes. With a huge available array of mechanicals left over from both the Alero and Grand Am (sister vehicle) theres no need to worry about service in the future.

Good for the money

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

Well, you could buy an ugly early 90's import, or an Alero for about the same price. For me, there's no contest. I'd take my Alero. Unless you plan on driving it for the next 15 years, it is an excellent car for the money.

Good car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I really like the Alero - I have had some problems with the interior lining on the doors, radiator/coolant system, and the power windows falling into the doors (3 of the 4) - but otherwise, the car has been great. I just took a job which I will be commuting over 80 mi per day, so I will be needing to trade in the alero for a car with a little better gas mileage. If my commute were shorter, I would probably drive this car for a few more years at least.

Pre-Owned Alero review

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Since the day I bought this car it has been nothing but wonderful, of course you get the pre-owned quirks but all that aside, I love the accessory of being told when one of my tires are low, and being able to choose between playing a cd or a cassette tape in my car. I believe I made a great decision on my first purchase of a pre-owned but still feels new Alero.

Love my Alero GLS

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Other than oil changes, brake pads and one warranty head gasket this car has run like a champ. It has been dependable with no problems. I will probably put another 85,000 miles on it before I replace it.

Buyer Beware

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I have had this car for less than two years. During this time I have replaced the alternator, water pump, driver side window motor, sensor on engine, ABS sensor,wheel bearings,repair emergency brake, coil for spark plugs, brakes and rotors. It is low mileage for a 1999 - only 68,000 miles. Each time we repair it, we think we'll be okay for a while. I am tired of the cost and am searching for another reliable car now.

1999 Oldsmobile Alero

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car over a year ago without an engine, as the teen who owned it before me was hard on the car. After replacing the engine, the car has been fine, except for a little problem. IT FOGS! This car is great in the summer, the AC works like a dream, but in the winter, if there is more than one person in the car, or the heat is on, the windows fog so that you cannot see out of it. I have to roll down the passenger window, thank goodness it's auto, to see into that mirror. Once it starts to fog, you either have to turn off the heat to prevent it, and hence be cold, or turn on defrost all the way. It is so annoying, and dangerous! Otherwise, the breaks squeak, and at least it's am American vehicle.

'99 Alero - beware!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

This car has had no end of problems at least for us - restarting issues, parts of the car coming off in my hand, constant replacement of major parts. It is very unreliable. This was the first model year, but come on. On the plus side, it does have good power - but the transmission seems to hamper its full utilization at times. It also is very comfortable. On the other hand we have a '99 Toyota Tercel that is small and wussy, but bullet proof! As a Cadillac mechanic friend once told me - don't buy North American vehicles.

Great car!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned my Alero since 1999. I have NEVER had any major problems with my car. I have taken it in regularly for the maintenance and oil changes. My warranty just expired last year and the only things that I have had to replace is the motor for the power window. I would highly reccomend this car to anyone. Too bad they do not make them anymore!

Not a good domestic purchase

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

Don't buy an Alero. I have had the following problems with it: dash bubbling, intake gasket leaking, blower motor resistor, water pump, both windows have problems, etc. It really is ridiculous, if you look at the reviews for 99' 2-door Accords people have no problems. Overall, Aleros are quite unreliable with both big and little problems. But for the price you really can't beat it. The Alero has never left me stranded or broken down on the road. Most issues are well known and if you need a cheap $3,000 car you can't beat an Alero.

You Should Buy One

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 5

I love my new Alero. I overpayed i guess...but it was well worth it! It is a fun and sporty car that has a decent amount of power. Nothing has seriously gone wrong with it yet. It is a very reliable car and all my friends are jealous with there plain looking Honda Civics and Dodge Neons...ewwwwwi e....hahaha!

Fun but junk

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I purchased my Alero used four years ago and have put on 60,000+ miles on it. It has a peppy 6 cylinder engine, the transmission is great, braking is good, and driveability is good. Its interior quality and build is terrible though. I have replaced the driver window hardware twice, replaced both engine head gaskets, rear door rubber, etc. There is nothing major wrong, but all of the small things add up. I love the car for commuting but cannot trust it anymore on the interstate. If the interior had better quality materials and the overall build quality was better, this would be a great car. Without these, this an average car with better alternatives from imports.

Great Looks/Perks bad Design

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

Bought the vehicle off of my parents. Since new, the car had to be taken itn for repairs about 2-3 times a year. It has gone through about 4 wheel bearing, 2 sets of struts, new Drive/Pass seatbelts, 2 resistors for the blower, intake gasket issues twice and replaced the alternator after 90,000 miles. There were other issues but these are being pulled from the top of my head. The good looks on the out and inside are very nice, the drive and handling are excellent and the stock sound system is better than anyone would expect. One should expect problems with this car, but as consumer reports is showing this is expected from most GM vehicles. I would not recommend this car.

Fun Car, but Buyer Beware

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I bought my 1999 Oldsmobile Alero new in 2000 and only put on about 5,000 - 5,500 miles a year on it. The car has had no major problems other than the brakes which I have had to replace three times. Specifically, I replaced the brake pads three times and rotars once on all four wheels ($500.00 total). This is not too bad considering the car has been driven for six years. UNTIL.... the car hit 36,000 miles (funny right after the warranty ran out). The transmission went and it cost $1,900.00 to fix. There has been problems with the seals and gaskets to the tune of $400.00 and now it is in the shop for the alternator. This is all within the last 400 miles after turning 36,000. So, buyer beware. The car handles great, has awesome speed, and I love the ride - it is fun, but it only has so much life in it!!

Why Can't they Build a Decent car?

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I ordered my Oldsmobile Alero in 1999. The first couple of years went okay, but in the third year I had to replace the alternater and soon after that my front brakes went. My rear view mirror completely fell off when I was driving and since there are wires connected to it I had to drive with the mirror dangling from my windshield. I can only use my air / heat on the 3 and 4 settings so the air literally sucks the tears from my eyes. Whenever it rains heavily my driver's side floor becomes completely saturated & I have a puddle of water in my car. Finally, on a day we had a snow storm, the driver's side window fell into the door. These things happened after the warranty expiresd and I wasn't offered an extended warranty..hmm, I wonder why?

Perhaps this Car Could have Saved Oldsmobile

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my '99 Oldsmobile Alero GLS in Oct. 2002 as a replacment for my '93 Mercury Tracer LTS. It was a zippy little car, but I wanted something bigger. The car was listed below KBB, fully loaded and was too good to pass up with 82,000 miles on the clock. I now have over 142,000 miles on it and have gotten by with few problems. The motor is strong and pulls hard for being "outdated". The only repairs I have done have been the intake gaskets, belt tensioner, alternator and MAF sensor. I regularly take the car to Ohio and WV and it has never let me down. I am now on the hunt for another Alero with fewer miles to replace it. I love the car, so when that time comes, it will be extremely painful to part with.

Alero - An Awesome Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My 1999 Oldsmobile Alero is a jewel. I love the ride. It hasn't had any engine problems. I used to have a Mitsubishi Eclipse and I am glad that I traded it in for an Alero.

Just the facts..

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought the car as a commuter and daily drove it with 2 passengers for 3 years. I drove it on vacations and cross country. It handles well, (better than an Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, (my car pool partners vehicles and got better mileage) I see no difference in the quality and reliability. Its north of 89,000 miles now and is my daughter's college and roadtrip car. Zero problems in 5 years...

Owner

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

My 1999 Oldsmobile Alero has 102,000 miles and the motor is gone. I had to replace the wheel barings 2 times in the 4 years that I've had it. The power windows not very reliable and are very expensive to fix. Basicly, every 6 months there was something wrong with it. I fell in love with the car the first time I saw it. It's very fun to drive.

Alero's are death traps

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

My brake pedal went to the floor a lot and I almost got seriously hurt in 2000 with this thing. The mechanics kept fixing the brakes and a month later I'd be back at the shop.

Buy foreign, not an Alero

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

This car is easily the worst car on the road. Had brakes replaced two months after purchase, then the power windows started to go. Driver-side replaced twice, passenger replaced once and needs to be replaced again. Alternator went out twice, electrical problems are constant, it took Oldsmobile 6 years to recognize a flaw that causes your hazards and turn signals to fail. Wheel bearings have been replaced at least 4 or 5 times, leather peeling off steering wheel. This car eats antifreeze like they're Pringles. There are many many more problems, just do yourself a favor and don't buy an Alero. Send a message to American auto manufacturers and buy foreign.

Fun car to Drive

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Got this car in 2001. Love to drive it, love the looks I get. It handles great. I have the 3.4 lt and it's fun. The seats are so comfortable (leather) that I really enjoy long trips. Trunk is very spacious and the rear seats fold down for the longer stuff. Have not had any major problems. Those other people must have gotten lemons to have so many problems or they beat it to death. A car has to be taken care of not abused to keep it in good shape and running nice. I would buy another one. But I don't want to sell the one I have any time soon.

Save your pennies and buy something else

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

This vehicle has to be a big joke. Yes the acceleration is somewhat spirited. However, it is not that great. My sisters' 4-cylinder Galant keeps up with its V6. Plus it has 98,000 miles and no problems. My Alero on the other hand has been in the shop 5 times. Right now at 85,000 the transmission is starting to slip and the air conditioning blower switch and a/c level selector don't work right. This car is trash! Take my advice and buy foriegn.

Look further

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

I bought my 1999 2 door GL model used in 2002 because it was sporty, yet sophisticated. Since I have bought this car, the manifold gasket has had to be replaced twice (I am waiting for it to go out again this winter. This resulted in coolant leaking into the oil.) Also, the driver's side automatic window motor had to be replaced around 50k miles. I have had the front brakes and rotors replaced twice, the rear once. The trunk sometimes takes two tries to close, and it leaks. Brake pedal is too stiff. If you are looking at this car, I suggest to keep looking, or else buy an extened warranty. I bought one with the car, and I have used every penny of it!I am heading to the Volvo dealership next.

Happy Owner

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Excellent car, oil leak around pan gasket when first purchased, fixed under warranty and no more problems. Mech. strong and requires very little maintance.

Do youself a favor

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I've had this car for two years. I've had the alternator replaced twice. $200 Dealership picked up the second one for me for free. The driver's side power window had to have the entire window system replaced when it broke. $100 The brakes wear down faster than any other car I've had. The tape player stopped working. I've lost pickup and power as soon as I got over 50k miles. The ignition casings malfunction and locked up, so the key wouldn't turn, that's $650 from the dealership. I bought it used, no warranty. I bought this car two years ago for $1500 below the blue book, and it's depreciated 50% in two years.

Aleros SUCK!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

In the past 2 years we have replaced the parts the hold the windows up (both windows fell inside the doors, brakes, tires, water pump, altenator, belt (we had to lift the engine out to put it on), and that doesn't include everything is wrong with the car. I have my antilock brake/trac light go off once a week, my fan only works on the 3rd and 4th setting, and my cruise control button doesn't work. This car has been a pain value has depreciated, it's ridiculous! DON'T BUY THIS CAR! GET RID OF IT, if you own one.

Constant Repairs

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Entire dashboard had to be replaced at 36K miles ($693); vinyl peeling off. Replaced the cruise ctrl switch at 37K miles ($151). Replaced the brakes & rotors at 41K miles ($251). Car stereo system at 45K miles ($400). New motor for pwr window at 50K miles ($500). Replaced water pump at 53K miles ($695). Replaced 2 more power window motors at 58K miles ($1K). Love the way the car drives & gas mileage, but repairs are more than any car I have ever owned. A person who takes as good of a car as I do shouldn't be having all of these problems.

If you know a car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I just received this car from graduation recently, and I'm totally surprised. My father had to fix this car up a bit, but now, the brakes are flawless and the minor problems (molding around the door was already fixed) are non-exsisting. I love the acceleration on this beauty and wherever I ride, I DO get some looks (kinda fun to point out cause I didn't before on my '89 Buick). If you can test this model, do it, but definitly try to point out the small problems if any. If you can find a seller that treated this car superb (my father- neat freak), than you will have many enjoyment rides than what other drivers say about this car.

Excellent Car!!!!!!!!!!!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love hauling my family around in this sporty car. The styling is great. I love the fact that I can wok on my car with minimal difficulties.

Recommended to ALL buyers!!! GREAT CAR!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

These cars are easy and fun to drive. I had my Alero for more than a year, its a 1999. It has 71,000 miles on it and runs great. I can change the oil, brakes, and perform maintenance to my car very easily. Also, these cars are easy to "hook up" because there are cheap after-market parts everywhere. I would RECOMMEND THIS CAR TO ANYONE.

nice car but bad breaks and wheels

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

had the car for 2 1/2 yrs constantly having troubles with breaks, just replaced last spring now we have to do again, cost $320 per side for new wheel barrings,it'a nice handling car, but as i said seems to have a lot of front end problems.

Had to give up on it

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

I loved this vehicle for the first 40k miles. Now I have to trade it in (and be upside down on the loan).In the last 2 months the wheel bearings/entire hub assembly replaced 3x's! My ABS AND ANTI LOCK light are on constantly,rear defroster doesn't work, driver side window regulator broken, 3 out of 6 heater speeds broken, intake manifold leak(very costly repair). I have taken very good care of this vehicle but I can not continue to make payments and pay all these costly repairs. I have read similiar problems on line w/ other Alero owners. Brakes,wheel bearings, ABS!!! Watch out- $250 per side.

Alero

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Its a very good vehicle

Underrated

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

For me, this car is near perfect. Nicely balanced between performance and economy. Good acceration, decent handling (though a bit below the Mystique I owned previously), good gas mileage, seats four comfortably yet is small enough to maneuver easily in city traffic (and fit in my 50 year old garage!). One of the best cars I've owned in over a half century of driving. Too bad they have been discontinued.

Very fun!! I love mine!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I've loved it, it's great for families, or people just starting out! Tons of space. Had a few problems, but normal things that any car would have! Very cheap in price, but pretty good quality.

Do not buy this as a primary vehicle!!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

within 5k miles from 48k, the serpentine belt squeals, still does- new one-($40), water pump went out ($110), alternator out ($210), wheel bearing ($320), intake manifold- distributor shaft oring, front main seal, leak oil,($1100) oem goodyear tires noisy($600+), aux power outlet broken ($110), rear defrost doesnt work ($105), driver seat wont flip foward for rear seat access($200) and more minor. changed the trans fluid - no dipstick. how are you supposed to check fluid?? Resale is also horrible = still paying payments (3 1/2 years left) as well as having to pay for major repairs. thats $2700 in repairs for a 3 1/2 yr old car.

Sexxy car

Performance: 3 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

this car has good looks, and is a fun car to drive.The preformance from the base 4 cylender is above average but not quite a super star. Handles the road well, engine noise is a little louder than expected.

great car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It's an all around great vehicle and fast being a V-6.

Great sporty car!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my car new from the dealership with the extended 60 month/60,000 mile warranty (which was worth paying for). The water pump and cruise control button have been replaced-all covered by warranty. The little piece of plastic behind the emergency flasher button on the dash also broke when I used my flashers for the sixth or seventh time-seems to happen often according to the dealership. It was only covered by warranty when it started interfering with the turn signals. The leather on my dash has started bubbling-probably from 3 years in the Southeast sun.

Mel's Alero Review

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

If you are looking for a reliable, comfortable, good looking, decently priced car the Olds Alero is definately an option. I absolutely loved mine. Unfortunately I was recently in an automobile accident where the car rolled. I will say that the Alero held up to my standards and kept me safe. If I would have went with a smaller car or a different brand, I don't believe I would have survived. Another car would have flattened in that situation. I am highly considering purchasing another Olds Alero. It looks good, drives good, and is a safe sturdy vehicle.

Great Little Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I just bought this car with 43,000 miles on it and so far i love it. The turn signals don't work all the time unless they have been "warmed-up" and the two back speakers have been blown out but other than that it has been great. The placement of the cupholders is not the greatest but everything else inside the car is fine. Legroom in the backseat is standard for the midsize type of car but could be better for 6 foot adults. Great first car.

Love it

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car new and love it as much today as I did on the test drive. I'm now at 119,000 miles and the only repairs I needed was to replace the bearings in the front (common with this vehicle) twice within the first year under warranty. Other then that it is a great car that is very fun to drive.

Terrible Car!!

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Purchased in 2000 this car has been a very unreliable automobile. Luckily, still under warranty, it has been in the shop 24 times! Engine, Head Gaskets, Water Pump, Alternator, problem with low tire pressure light, still is on to this day (can't find a problem) just to name a few... this was all at 42,000 miles!! Good job GM!

Best and Worst of Both Worlds

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

The car is a bit of a heart-breaker. It's a beautiful car both inside and out. It does handle well and got though the past winter (2002-2003)ok. The engine is the albatross around this car's neck. A manifold seal has failed twice causing damage to the engine.The car is showing the same symptoms at this writing. Also, the power windows have gone off track at least once. If I had to to it again, This would not be the car I would choose.

What a disappointment

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

My wife and I bought a 1999 Alero GL2 with 28,000 miles on it in early 2002. We've had it for 1.5 years and have had the following done to it: -Head gasket replaced/repaired ($500) -Ventilation system actuator and resistor replaced ($800) -Left front CV joint repaired ($400) -Right passenger side power window motor replaced ($200) -Front rotors/pads replaced ($300) We have paid over $2,200 in repairs. This is the worst peice of crap either of us have ever owned. The dealership told us "that's what you get for buying a bottom of the line car." Well, after owning this car and being told that - I will NEVER buy another GM car.

1999 Alero 4 door / 4 cyl GL

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had this car longer than any other vehicle I've owned, and still love it. Yes, there've been issues w/the front rotors but was handled under warranty and haven't had the brakes touched in over 20k miles. And the blower motor resistor has been replaced twice (1 under warranty, the other out of pocket). The cup holders aren't the best, but hey this isn't a luxury car either. I won't be looking to replace this vehicle for another 3 years, and wished the Olds Alero would still be around then.

A fun car overall

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

This has been a fun car to drive, however, the reliability of the vehicle is questionable. In the two years that I have owned this vehicle, there has been approximately $4000.00 in repairs that have been necessary on internal components.

A rental unit got me hooked!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I drove this car for 8 hours straight... and felt absolutely no fatigue... that rental car made me go out and by my '99!

piece of junk!!!!

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

I've had this car for two years, I've replaced the starter, struts, battery, both windows (tracks and motors!!!!!). Now the head gasket is bad, (antifreeze leaking in the engine). Stay away from this car, it seemed like after I hit 65k miles, it took a nose dive.

Problems never end

Performance: 4 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

I do love the look of the car, but I have had to call AAA four times in the eleven months I have owned the car. It's either the alternator, battery, electric system or emissions problems.

This Car is a Piece of Junk

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 2

All of the windows have fallen out of their power window track at least once. The battery leaked at 30K miles. The Low Trac light always comes on when backing up. The hazard light switch disappeared into the dashboard. The doors sometimes fail to unlock with the key fob. The plastic interor pieces are multi-colored and snapping or breaking off. I'm praying that it will hold together long enough for me to trade it in on a Nissan Altima (V6). In the past year it has began to consume oil and anti-freeze. And, the power steering pump is slowly leaking which means, just like all the other GM cars I've had, the rack will go out at 80K.

GLS is the best

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is fabulous. It handles beautifully, its comfotable, sporty, and fast. NONE better...

1999 Alero - lemons

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

If you like to fix cars this is the car for you. I owned this car for 2.5 years and replaced the radiator, water pump, tie rod ends, battery, & rotors. On occasion the transmission didn't engage right away, this always made me nervous. The final straw was when the valves started to go. It made a loud tapping sound in the engine so I traded it in. Don't buy one of these lemons!

DO NOT BUY THIS PIECE OF CRAP!

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

These are just SOME of things that put this car in the shop in the 1st 40,000 miles: Brake rotors resurfaced at 10K and 20K miles. Low speed fan motor replaced at 20K. Low speed fan resistor replaced at 30K and 36K miles. COMPLETE ENGINE REBUILD NEEDED AT 38,000 Miles - Right after warranty period was over. $4,000. Fog lamps and headlights/taillights failed. Now the front left end is loud, grinding and vibrating - maybe a joint or something - not waiting around to find out. Drove it to a Kia dealer (just made it) and traded it in for $5,000. Bought a Sorento SUV. One sentence on the Alero - WORST CAR EVER!

Functional

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

This is a pretty dependable car. In 80,000 miles, theonly problems I've had were with the power steering. Both times were covered under the initial 36,000 mile warranty. Other than that, I've only replaced the brakes and tires. The car handles very well, but gas mileage has decreased over time. My only complaint is that the resale value is horrible. You can't get anything for the car, so you probably have to drive it forever.

A sharp car to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my car from a private owner. It handles great and sure is fun to drive. The leather interior is so comfortable. The only complaint, I don't get to drive it as often as I'd like to.

RUN THE OTHER WAY!!!!!!

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I bought my '99 gl3 9/29/2002. 1st in shop 10/02/2002. In 3 mon. I've had it they've replaced: fuel pump&filter,#2coils,battery,+ cable,plug wires,reprogrammed pcm,replaced all window trim,cowl&door vapor shield,dome light,seat belt retractor,window reg.,rear door handle,driver mirror.Car still has problems! Sometimes wont start. Been in shop at least 10 times for that alone. They say they're in Dark about it. Warranty runs out TODAY! Found out today that before I bought car previous owner had problems too. Car not starting, battery no good,engine leaking oil from front of it,lower intake gasket leaking,rotor problem,etc.Too much to list!

Sleeper Olds

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

The V-6 has plenty of torque and just begs to be wound out to the redline. But, the 170 HP peaks at 4800 RPM. The same engine in a Chevy Ventura Van is 185 HP at 5200 RPM. It's too bad it doesn't come in a 5-speed transmission though. The wide tires give the car a very firm feel. But the car has very soft suspension and a lot of sway in the corners. I'm sure this keeps the less experianced drivers from loosing it in the corners. The brakes are extremely inadequate. Performance brake pads are a manditory minimum upgrade. Overall this is a very fun car to drive though. It's almost a great sports car.

Best Car I Have Owned

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Alero is a great car. Without a doubt I am off the chart when it comes to miles driven/year. I bought my Alero with 23000 miles and within 12.5 months have 60000 miles on the odometer. If anyone can give an evaluation of a cars durability I can. When I bought the car the rotors were slightly warped. The dealer fixed the problem before I picked the car up. I only mention this because others on this site have mentioned rotor problems with this car. The problem has not returned in 36000 miles. No other problems

Not bad for a cheap american car

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

Have owned an Alero for three years and 45,000 miles. Cons: cramped, questionable quality on interior design -- have had a couple of things break on me. Pros -- no repairs, knock on wood. Has been reliable, good gas mileage, pretty good acceleration for a 4 cyl -- better than our 2001 Altima. Actually, more fun to drive than the Altima, too.

Alero: Four Years Into Ownership

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

After four years, it still looks good and drives well. Driven only 24k miles, mostly short trips to work. So far corrective maintenance has been minor. I've had the PS pump adjusted once, the rotors turned once, one battery replaced, the driver's side power window motor replaced, and rear door upholstery repaired. I was surprised by the problems reported at this website by some of the other owners. The V-6 provides strong acceleration, the car handles well, and I find it quiet and smooth. Driver visibility is excellent. The car's exterior looks solid. The interior looks fine at a glance, but the dash and door materials are cheap.

COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

IN 99 PAYING OVER $18K FOR A CAR YOU WOULD EXPECT ALITTLE BETTER, BUT NOT BAD. DID HAVE ALOT OF PROBLEMS: LIGHTS ON REAR VIEW MIRROR WOULD'T GO OFF, FAN WOULDN'T WORK UNLESS ON HIGH, ROTORS AND BRAKES SHOT AT 18K MILES. BUT MAYBE MY FAULT FOR BUYING FIRST YEAR MODEL. VERY BAD RESALE VALUE. ALMOST HAVE TO GIVE AWAY. IF YOUR BUYING GET THE V6. THIS IS THE BEST THING ABOUT THE CAR!!

New Owner in Maryland

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 4

Bought it 3 weeks ago,so far I like it except... Top of the list: Cupholders,who designed this so I can get a wack at them.Just me or do you have to take the car out of park to get a big cup in the holder? Shakes at 80mph. Oops then again I'm not suppose to go that fast. The trunk, could have not spent a few more dollars on the parts.Those little fake me out screws just dont cut it.Most have fallin out, the others wont stay in.Think it's a decent car,then again it's my first car of course it's decent.Crossing my fingers that I dont have horror stories like the other reviewers.

i feel safe in this car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Last week, I got in a bad accident in my Alero. I was hit in my driver's side door by a truck and my car ended up being totaled, as the accident was very bad. However, it is amazing that I walked out of the accident without any injuries. Both of my airbags deployed, my car did not roll over, and it kept me from getting hurt. There was another Alero owner in the parking lot and he said that it was good to know that the car could protect so well, and that the airbags work, etc. I agree, and would have no problems getting into another Alero.

Love my Alero

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Ths is my first car and so far i love it. Performance is great, once u break it in...looks.. it looks really nice.. black coupe.. its hot

solid car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have put 80,000 miles on my Alero and have had no problems with it at all.

'99 Alero

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 4

This car has been great engine-wise, but began having interior problems less than 3 years after purchase. Dashboard is peeling away and molding on driver's side is warping. If you are thinking about purchasing this car, be sure you don't live in the Southeast because you may end up experiencing the same type of interior problem. In my experience, Oldsmobile will not repair the defect for free because the mileage was over 36,000 (although it hadn't been 36 months) and I got the short end of the stick. I wouldn't want this to happen to someone else.

GREAT CAR!!!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I LOVE MY CAR!!!

Junk

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

Garbage. Power windows broke. Rotors warp every 10,000. Trans problems. Steering column problems.

Not your Grandmas Olds

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

So many reviews I read give this car a poor review and I don't see why. I guess those that don't have a problem don't write reviews. I think this is a pretty good car. It has the potential to be great. A larger engine would be nice. In all I think that it is a pretty good car.

Looks and muscle aren't everything.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

2 years ago this was exactly what I wanted: green,sleek,V6,alloy wheels and CD. Then problems started: first the heater/AC blower went. Then the blinkers cut out part of the time. Then the front rotors warped, were resurfaced under warrantee but warped again even worse and had to be replaced out of pocket. Acceleration, ride and handling are good but compared to my fiancee's Jetta the brakes and steering are terribly numb and disconnected. Seats are comfy at first but after an hour my butt hurts. Overall, looks great inside and out but after a couple years the car grates on me. My next car will be an import, probably a Mazda.

alero

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

i drive 60 miles round trip to work five days a week and have never had any trouble except for a flat tire, its a great vehicle but i need to get another car because of the amout of miles i have put on it, i would recommend this car to anyone, it gets at least 30 miles to the gallon and rides great, i love this car and hate to think of getting a new one but i know that i need to. its just the right size for me (one passenger usually) but its also great for the family, there are 4 of us.

I have had the worst one ever made .

Performance: 2 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

It has been in service more than I have had the chance to drive it.

scrap metal

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

50,000 highway miles and nothing but problems. This is a great vehicle if you know a great mechanic! It rides like a ratteling peice of scrap metal too. It great to note that in a few years when Olds stop making cars it wont be worth anything either. GM should get it's act together. !

stay away

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

At this point, the car has 63,000 miles. In the last 6 months I have had to replace the air conditioner condensor, fan switch on the air conditioner,head gasket, and starter. Also, the hazard light button has fallen into the dash board and the cell phone receptacle has come loose from its connection and does not work. For a car with this low mileage-the expense of the keeping it running is about to drive me crazy-$2,500 in 6 months. I drive 120 miles a day to work. I have to have a dependable car and this is not one. In addition, the seats are not comfortable for long drives and the cup holders are almost impossible.

rotors

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

I keep reading about bad rotors. I brought my car in to have the windshield wipers replaced several months after I bought it. (I had to replace the other side last month) I was told that the rotors needed to be replaced. It wasn't a recall, but if the cars were brought in for other reasons they automatically replaced them. I have also had to take my car back several times because it was leaking oil.

GM could have made this a better car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

For the price I paid, this is about what I expect to get back. It car will do the job get from A to B nicely. Howver, comparing to Camry and Accord I also drive, it does not give me the same level of confidence at higher speed (or more aggressive driving style). Although this car looks sporty, you will definately feel the body roll on turns. The brake is just poor. In all, I am more willing to drive my 84 Dodge Colt at 100 mph under strong cross wind then this Alero (under the same condition).

First Olds Buyer

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Nice car, the V-6 has good power. I have taken several long trips in this car and its gets very good gas milage. Air conditioner is a little weak. The only problem that developed in 30,000 miles was a slight anti freeze leak which was a big job but was covered under the new car warrenty.

loved it

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Oldsmobile Alero is a fun car to drive. It "fits" my style...the stereo is set at an angle so tuning in is easy. I feel safe in my car, it's a sturdy vehicle but as stylish as a European import.

N~I~C~E

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

great car. Good for a first car. I love it!! You should buy it!

junk

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

No reliability. Many problems. Rotors warp in 10,000 miles. Steering problems like crazy.

Reminds me of a T-bird

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought my Alero GLS 2dr with sunroof, leather, 17" aluminum wheels, and sport tires. It reminds me alot of a Ford T- bird because of the sound of the engine. Personnally though, I like a quiter ride like my 94 Grand Prix which I think rides smoother. Still the Alero has more power and performance capabilities.

The "Newmobile" Alero

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My father bought his Alero a couple of years ago, and I have to admit that at first I was rather appalled by his decision to get this car. However, whatever opinions I had about the car quickly changed after a few errand runs. The Alero has a way of growing on you. This car's traction control system works wonders in the snow. It got me out of a bad situation real quick...

I love my Alero!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I really like my 99 Alero..but i am a bit worried aobut what i have read regarding the brakes..cause i noticed the brakes in mine didnt seem to be very good when i first tried it out, but I just fell in love with the outside design of car. I have the gold edition, 4 cylinder and i think its beautiful and fun to drive. I think Oldsmobile means good quality too.

Extremely Safe

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I unfortunately do not have my car anymore, as I totaled it on August 11, 2001 in a rainstorm. When I had it I loved it!! Everyone who rode in her loved the comfortable ride, even from the back seat. It was great for long trips. I had the full package and wouldn't go for less. I disagree with Edmunds review in the fact that mine had side air bags. None of the airbags deployed, but that was only because we did not take any direct hits to the sides or front. I hydroplaned into a cable barrier in AZ (taking out 300' of cable and 7 poles). It smashed the front and passenger side windows when we went under the cable. We were TOTALLY UNTOUCHED inside the vehicle.

I like my Alero

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Leased it because it was cheap and seemed solid compared to the imports in the same price range. I have 30000 miles on it and not a problem. 4 cylinder has adequate power for the gas milage it gets. I just bought a new 2002 Alero because of the rebates and incentives. If it wouldn't of been cheap I would of gone with an import only for resale value, not because I like them better than the Alero.

Good American Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

I have a GL3 sedan. I was surprisingly pleased with the engine and transmission performance of this car. I have almost 40K miles and encountered several problems. Front brake pads/rotors were replaced 3 times; engine coolant leaked 3 times; emergency brake doesn't engage; fan didn't work on low settings; glove compartment light mechanism broke; radio antenna came lose; sensors freeze during cold; power window motors are too weak in frozen weather. This car fish-tails too easily in emergency maneuvers and cornering. The resale value is horrible.

KICKS!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is an awesome car, turns heads, cause it's red and sporty! Excellent body and interior, the GLS is the ONLY way to go!

Leased Alero

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I leased my Alero in July 99. It has the GL1 package and have found it to be a good solid car but nothing exceptional. The heat and a/c did not work on the 2 low settings after a year but other than that I have had no major problems. The gas mileage is not that good - I drive in the city mostly - around 18 miles to the gallon with the 4 cylinder. Resale value poor.

great potential, but falls short

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Very high feature content at a great price. I bought a left over '99 GX in 2000. I have 32K miles on it and the only problem were warped rotors that were replaced under warranty. Bottom line, for what I needed; a new, stylish, cheap commuter car that I will likely run into the ground it's perfect. A fully loaded model would not be a good value.

This is a good car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Decent car. Good power. Smooth ride. 44,000 miles and no problems. Rotors did warp, but replacing them with good rotors and good brake pads solves the problem. If you buy cheap parts, well then, you get what you pay for. Reliable so far, and probably will be in the future. No mechanical problems either.

Road hugging

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Love my car