2002 Oldsmobile Alero

2002 Oldsmobile Alero

The 2002 Oldsmobile Alero was a mid-size sedan that offered a comfortable and well-equipped interior, along with a choice of two engines and three transmission options. The base engine was a 2.2-liter four-cylinder that produced 140 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The optional engine was a 3.4-liter V6 that generated 170 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. Despite its positive aspects, the Alero was also known for some common issues.

Engine

• 2.2L Four-Cylinder Engine
  • Timing Chain Failure: Stretching or snapping of the timing chain, leading to engine damage or failure.
    • Solution: Replacement of timing chain and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: 01V519000
• 3.4L V6 Engine
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Failure of the intake manifold gasket, causing coolant and/or oil leaks.
    • Solution: Replacement of intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: 02V168000
  • Power Steering Pump Failure: Malfunction of the power steering pump, resulting in loss of power steering and difficulty turning.
    • Solution: Replacement of power steering pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Five-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Synchronizer Failure: Worn or damaged synchronizers, causing difficulty shifting gears.
    • Solution: Replacement of synchronizers and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• Four-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission Fluid Leak: Failure of transmission fluid seals or lines, leading to fluid loss and transmission failure.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of leaking components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Struts: Worn or damaged front suspension struts, causing poor handling and reduced ride comfort.
  • Solution: Replacement of struts and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Malfunction of the alternator, resulting in insufficient charging of the battery.
  • Solution: Replacement of alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Motor Failure: Failure of the electric window motors, causing difficulty or inability to operate windows.
  • Solution: Replacement of window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Switch Failure: Malfunction of the headlight switch, preventing headlights from operating correctly.
  • Solution: Replacement of headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: 02V038000

Interior

• Climate Control Failure: Malfunction of the climate control system, resulting in inability to adjust temperature or airflow.
  • Solution: Replacement of climate control module or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure: Failure of one or more ABS sensors, leading to ABS system malfunction and reduced braking effectiveness.
  • Solution: Replacement of ABS sensor and related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, while the 2002 Oldsmobile Alero offered a comfortable and well-equipped interior, it was prone to several reliability issues. The most severe and costly issues include timing chain failure, transmission fluid leaks, and suspension strut failure. Other notable problems include intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering pump failure, and electrical issues. Researching the specific issues associated with a particular vehicle is recommended before purchasing a used 2002 Oldsmobile Alero.