3 Star Reviews for 2003 Oldsmobile Alero

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.20/5 Average
85 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Any music lovers out there? For 2003, the Alero expands its scope of available sounds by offering XM Satellite Radio as an option. It's the only Oldsmobile to do so.

Pros:
  • Sleek styling, brisk performance and handling, ergonomically intelligent interior, well-equipped standard model.
Cons:
  • Hint of cheapness to interior bits, numb steering, poor resale value.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 85.00
  • Nice Ride! - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    Well I just traded in my 98 Ford Contour Sport on a used 03 Alero. I was very happy with the Ford but this GM is making me smile every time I drive it. The brakes are a bit numb but they work like a champ, and the steering is a little vague but when driven hard this car really comes to life. It has a nice ride quality and a very pleasing exhaust note. So pretty much you can tool around down with the family or drive thought the canyon roads with confidence, good blend of Sport and Economy.

  • Do not buy this car - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    I bought this car new in April 2003. It was a nice car until about 50,000 miles. At that point, my opinion on this car changed greatly! It started having one problem after another, and had so many squeaks, rattles and air leakage that you would think it was a 20 year old car. This car was in the shop so often that everyone knew me on a first name basis! The final problem was a major computer meltdown at 68,000 miles. I left it at the shop (unrepaired), got what I could for trade, and bought a used Nissan Maxima! Do not waste your money and time on an Alero!

  • So So, Nothing Special - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    First off the brake design of this car is horrible. Ive already had to put in new brake pads and have the rotors turned twice. The car has less than 50,000 miles on it. The gas mileage varies from 22 to 30 depending on oil changes, driving conditions...etc. Its seats arent really that comfy and the interior looks cheap. You definitely pay for what you get. I wont ever by another GM, next time its a Honda or Toyota.

  • Okay Car - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    I purchased this car about 8 months ago and have put lots of mileage on it. I have replaced 2 front rotors and brakes and drivers side window regulators. The interior is made real cheap and you can tell, and stereo keys fell off within weeks of having the car, but it has been pretty much reliable. I would not buy another one, but its been okay while it lasted.

  • Not your old Olds - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    I bought this car used with 20k miles from a decent dealer. Have owned Olds before and was disappointed in the quality. At 80k miles, gets decent gas mileage both in town and on the road, 20/30. Its a small car and rides like it. Had the security key module replaced three time and then finally the on board computer, which is quite costly when out of warranty. Replaced the front strut assemblies as they were worn out by 40k miles. I would look for a foreign make instead of this.

  • Not a big fan, overall - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    I have had so many problems with this vehicle, that it was really not worth the money I paid. I have replaced the brakes more often than I should have to, and have had numerous problems with the security system, that no one seems to be able to fix. I will take it into the shop, and they will temporarily fix the problem, and it will stop again. I have changed the spark plus, the ignition system, brakes, bearings, command start, and the clutch. It drives nicely when it is working, but not worth the money that I have had to put into it. All in all, I plan on buying a new car and ditching this lemon of an Olds. Do not buy!

  • Buy it and youll regret it deeply - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    I bought the 2002 GL2 4dr V6. While it handled quite well and had decent ride, it was typical GM junk. I cant stress enough the poor reliability of the car, but more importantly, the blatant disregard GM has for its customers. They DO NOT stand behind their questionable products. For example, brake rotors went at 19k miles while brake pads were not half worn. GM refused to pay. Ditto for intake manifold. I traded the PoS in, taking a heavy loss while doing so because it has the worst depreciation record of ALL compact sedans. Im in a Mazda 6 now and love it. GM will not get another penny from me.

  • So far so good - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    My alero 2003 has been so far pretty good. Going on a 2,000 mile trip within the next couple of days. Only problem I have is front driver side tire seems to have problems - rotate every 2,500 miles and gas mileage not the greatest. Used to buy Fords but they have the worst paint jobs in my opinion. Rust out. Chevs never have rusted; my dad always bought Oldsmobile so thought I would take his advise.

  • Glad I bought the Extended Warranty - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    I bought this car with 12K miles on it. Came off of a fleet lease. No problems the first year. In the 2nd year had to replace right front wheel bearing, 6 months later the left front wheel bearing 35k miles on it. At 55K had to replace the fuel pump and some additional parts associated with the fuel system. At 74k had to repair and replace many parts of the air conditioning system. Good thing I had the extended warranty total repairs come to $4800. This car is a glorified Grand Am. Will not consider another GM vehicle after this car experience. Hello Honda/Toyota.

  • A Lemon! - 2003 Oldsmobile Alero
    By -

    I have had this car for ove a year now and I have put so much money into it that if I saved it all I could have paid this car off.. The pass lock locked my car first. 3 mechanics couldnt figure out what was wrong. All together $1000 fixed the problem. My Ford that I paid $1000 didnt give me as many problems as this! Brakes, bearings, spring coil, A/C, drum and the pass lock. All together well over $5000 put into it already! It makes me sick to my stomach. I will never again get an Oldsmobile! No wonder they shut down their production. The sound system is great but I would rather have a reliable car instead.

Oldsmobile Alero Reviews By Year:
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