2002 Oldsmobile Alero

The 2002 Oldsmobile Alero was a mid-size car offering a mix of style and practicality. Engine options included a 2.2L inline-4 and a 3.4L V6. The 2.2L produced around 140 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.4L offered approximately 170 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Alero’s sporty styling and comfortable ride, but common complaints centered around reliability issues, particularly with electrical components and some engine/transmission issues.

Engine

2.2L Inline-4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, engine running lean (indicated by a check engine light), coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idling, stalling, especially when coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

3.4L V6

• Upper Intake Manifold Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, misfires, white smoke from exhaust. This is a common issue with the plastic upper intake manifolds used on this engine.
  • Solution: Replace the upper intake manifold. Aftermarket manifolds with improved materials are available.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
• Lower Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, coolant leaks, rough running, possible overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the lower intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$700

Transmission

4T40-E 4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, check engine light with transmission-related codes.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ depending on the number of solenoids and labor.
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at low speeds, stalling when coming to a stop, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ as the transmission typically needs to be removed

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can also affect alignment.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts. It’s often recommended to replace struts and mounts together.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600 for struts and mounts replacement per pair.
• Rear Coil Spring Sag/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the car sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded, clunking noises, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, or moving very slowly. Grinding noises from the door.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on, intermittent headlight operation.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$150
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning door locks, interior lights, or security system.
  • Solution: The BCM may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• ABS Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated, loss of ABS functionality, braking problems.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the ABS module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaking internally, making it difficult or impossible to open the door from the outside.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$200

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing in the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement is difficult and expensive. A dashboard cover can be used to conceal the cracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600 depending on the repair.
• Broken Sun Visors
  • Description/Symptoms: Sun visors breaking or drooping down.
  • Solution: Replace the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 each

Summary

The 2002 Oldsmobile Alero can be an affordable option, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. The electrical problems, intake manifold leaks, and transmission issues can lead to significant repair costs. Prioritizing a pre-purchase inspection and checking service records can help avoid expensive surprises. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be costly, so factor in potential repair expenses when considering purchasing this vehicle.