1999 Oldsmobile Alero
Introduction
The 1999 Oldsmobile Alero is a mid-size sedan that was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and peppy performance. It was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 2.4L 4-cylinder, a 3.4L V6, and a 4-speed automatic transmission (4T65-E) or a 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag F23). Despite its favorable qualities, the Alero has been met with several issues that can affect its reliability and longevity.
Engine
2.4L 4-cylinder
Engine Knock Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noises coming from the engine, especially during acceleration or under load Solution: Replace connecting rod bearings or crankshaft, or rebuild the engine Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ Recalls: None Found
Piston Ring Failure Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue or black smoke from exhaust, loss of power Solution: Rebuild or replace the engine Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+ Recalls: None Found
3.4L V6
Oil Leak from Oil Pan Gasket Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the bottom of the engine Solution: Replace the oil pan gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Water Pump Failure Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, squealing or grinding noises coming from the water pump Solution: Replace the water pump and timing belt Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4T65-E Automatic Transmission
Transmission Slipping Description/Symptoms: Inability to engage gears, slipping out of gear while driving, erratic shifting Solution: Overhaul or replace the transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1800 - $3000+ Recalls: None Found
Valve Body Malfunction Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission shudder Solution: Replace or repair the valve body Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ Recalls: None Found
Getrag F23 Manual Transmission
Synchronizer Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, popping out of gear Solution: Replace the synchronizers Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ Recalls: None Found
Clutch Master Cylinder Failure Description/Symptoms: Clutch pedal feels spongy or fails to engage Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Strut Mount Failure Description/Symptoms: Noise and vibration over bumps, excessive tire wear Solution: Replace the strut mounts Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+ Recalls: None Found
Control Arm Bushing Wear Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace the control arm bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Power Window Failure Description/Symptoms: Power windows fail to operate or operate slowly Solution: Replace the power window motor or switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Battery light illuminated, dimming lights, electrical system problems Solution: Replace the alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+ Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Door Lock Actuator Failure Description/Symptoms: Doors fail to lock or unlock using the power lock switch Solution: Replace the door lock actuator Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Headlight Switch Failure Description/Symptoms: Headlights fail to turn on or operate intermittently Solution: Replace the headlight switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found
Interior
Climate Control Malfunction Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning or heater fails to operate or blows only hot or cold air Solution: Diagnose and repair the climate control system Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: None Found
Instrument Cluster Failure Description/Symptoms: Gauges or displays fail to function or provide inaccurate readings Solution: Replace the instrument cluster Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1999 Oldsmobile Alero is a stylish and comfortable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems include engine knocks, oil leaks, transmission slipping, suspension noise, and electrical malfunctions. While some of these issues are minor and inexpensive to repair, others can be more severe and costly. Owners should be aware of these potential issues before purchasing or operating an Alero.