2002 Oldsmobile Alero
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Oldsmobile › Alero › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Oldsmobile Alero. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2002 Oldsmobile Alero. Newest first.
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
Certain delphi fuel pressure regulators, p/nos. Fp10020-11b1, fp10026-11b1, and fp10027-11b1, sold after january 9, 2007, as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles listed above. the universal pressure regulators (upr) were produced without an o'ring and retainer.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Fuel may leak, possibly resulting in a fire.
Remedy
Delphi will notify owners and replace the upr free of charge. the recall began on april 23, 2007. owners can contact delphi at 877-411-8770.
Owner complaints
279 complaints11 involved a crash8 involved a fire9 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine
2002 oldsmobile alero was driving on interstate and very low on fuel when i exited the interstate at the street light it turned green and as i was accelerating my car stalled out and since then ive pur 2 gallons of fuel in it and now it cranks but wont start up and now it back fires when trying to…
2002 oldsmobile alero was driving on interstate and very low on fuel when i exited the interstate at the street light it turned green and as i was accelerating my car stalled out and since then ive pur 2 gallons of fuel in it and now it cranks but wont start up and now it back fires when trying to start it and my security light is off and I'm getting fuel pressure in the front rail and I got spark and yea my fuel pump is humming.
- Air bags · Seat belts · Steering
1. Security turns on while driving, making the vehicle to spin but not drive normally on road or highway when driving 2. Horn malfunctioning, stops working when security turns on while driving 3. Seatbelt warning and airbag light flashing when security turns on while driving, seatbelt becomes…
1. Security turns on while driving, making the vehicle to spin but not drive normally on road or highway when driving 2. Horn malfunctioning, stops working when security turns on while driving 3. Seatbelt warning and airbag light flashing when security turns on while driving, seatbelt becomes locked preventing driver from being able to move to check blind spots or rear while driving 4. Emergency lights become disabled when security lights turn on Key ignition was inspected and fixed according to recall. The above are things that have been noticed by new driver/owner. Only drive when necessary to avoid traffic accidents. Do not have money to pay a dealership or GM to check problems. These problems occurred since day 1 after purchasing the vehicle.
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system · Suspension
Kept cutting off won't stay crunk long ignition is jammed loud screeching noises from the springs alternator might be the reason electrical issues fuel pump I had to leave my car at a friend's place I'm not working due to the COVID pandemic not able to afford repairs I really need my transportation someone referred me to this site
- Electrical system · Structure › Body · Unknown or other
2002 olds alero,present mileage@5/17/20-187,037. Where do I start? Okay,the trunk has started to arbitrarily decide to pop open...apparently during rain/thunderstorms...i wonder if this has anything to do with the door locks recently deciding to not lock the passenger side when using switch on…
2002 olds alero,present mileage@5/17/20-187,037. Where do I start? Okay,the trunk has started to arbitrarily decide to pop open...apparently during rain/thunderstorms...i wonder if this has anything to do with the door locks recently deciding to not lock the passenger side when using switch on dr,side door...and now since the trunk's been popping open for the last 3wks,the key fob won't open the trunk,and the button on interior door to the trunk won't work either,unless the car IS running(and not all the time then,either) interior door locks won't respond to the interior switch anymore..what a pain in the a**....i'm keeping a bungee cord over the spoiler to the bumper to keep the trunk closed. Fyi~i keep the car on a trickle charge to the battery24/7 ,since I avoid driving the thing-the passlock bs seems to cause the battery to drain since it has to sit with the key on.also carry a noco charger at all times in case I need a jump..the rust IS unbelievable. Rear fenders are all but crumbled off.have to fix dr,side window now~had to fix pass. Side 2YRS ago.regulator afu,probably need new switch,window went off the track, getting good at taping them up discreetly.the aluminum rims cause slow leaks in tires,buy yourself an inflator..massive power steering leak now,brake lines replaced twice..they're under the car exposed to where they get to rust away constantly~i live in north west ohio where it snows&rains alot,so I'm hosed. Once I mastered the passlock 2step I thought that it couldn't get any worse~but in reading all the other complaints& starting to have what may be a bcm issue,i'm not driving this thing if I don't have to! I paid my aaa dues and full coverage insurance.. Oh,yeah-had that"recall" a few yrs ago and all they did was monkey around with the keys,not the ignition! I've been told a 100 times I'll need a new ignition~anybody out there have $700??? *tr
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Fuel/propulsion system
"Takata recall" I own a 2002 oldsmobile alero and my blinkers only work maybe 2 time a month when I use my turning signals in either direction I just hear a buzzing sound sometimes it IS only in one direction and sometimes there IS no sound and no blinker at all. Now my gas gauge says empty and I…
"Takata recall" I own a 2002 oldsmobile alero and my blinkers only work maybe 2 time a month when I use my turning signals in either direction I just hear a buzzing sound sometimes it IS only in one direction and sometimes there IS no sound and no blinker at all. Now my gas gauge says empty and I just put $30 of gas in it and once I ran out of gas and and was stuck on the hwy for 4 hours because my gas gauge said full tank b
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. The contact stated that the vehicle had aftermarket struts installed by an independent mechanic. The struts caused premature wear and pulled apart the control arms at the center bushings, which caused the geometry of the suspension to change. As a…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. The contact stated that the vehicle had aftermarket struts installed by an independent mechanic. The struts caused premature wear and pulled apart the control arms at the center bushings, which caused the geometry of the suspension to change. As a result, it was dangerous when making turns. The part manufacturer denied any failures with the struts. The dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 230,000.
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. While exiting a parking lot, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and it was able to drive normally; however, the failure recurred on several occasions. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 203,000.
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc)
Car often stalls starting. Easily cuts off when portable phone charger IS in place or if radio IS on after 5 minutes with discontinuing engine. Cut off at a stop sign recently without warning and would not restart until some time later. Has new battery less than 8 months old. Did the same things…
Car often stalls starting. Easily cuts off when portable phone charger IS in place or if radio IS on after 5 minutes with discontinuing engine. Cut off at a stop sign recently without warning and would not restart until some time later. Has new battery less than 8 months old. Did the same things with old battery and was thought that it was the problem but continues with the same issues. Seems to have a short in the electrical system somewhere.
- Electrical system
Takata recall- I bought this car last year and have had trouble with the ignition. When I try to turn the key I feel the ignition move. I also have a hard the keeping it started. When I'm driving with my seat belt on my no seat belt light flashes on and off as if it wasn't on.
- Electrical system · Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. The contact heard a whining noise when turning the steering wheel from right to left. The "service vehicle soon" indicator illuminated. The contact called a local dealer (jerry seiner chevrolet, 1530 s 500 w, salt lake city, ut 84115) and was informed…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. The contact heard a whining noise when turning the steering wheel from right to left. The "service vehicle soon" indicator illuminated. The contact called a local dealer (jerry seiner chevrolet, 1530 s 500 w, salt lake city, ut 84115) and was informed that the original key was needed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was 141,111.
- Service brakes · Unknown or other
My tensor pulley IS going out and my safety sensors like anti lock, trac off and now service engine soon keep coming on had it in shop and found nothing wrong. Now its making loud noises.it happens when im stopped and moving
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
It just started after the security got lock and had to be over drive. when you drive you can feel the car idle bad when you have to stop for a light or stop sign or if you have to stop to turn and you get below 1 mga turns off. Yesterday it did this and turn off and all it would do IS just turns…
It just started after the security got lock and had to be over drive. when you drive you can feel the car idle bad when you have to stop for a light or stop sign or if you have to stop to turn and you get below 1 mga turns off. Yesterday it did this and turn off and all it would do IS just turns but doesn't start. In the middle of the road. It sounds to me like it's not get fuel or air where it needs to be. You can drive the speed limit and watch the mga, I think, 1,2,3, ildel down a little. Started end of sept or no troubler
- Electrical system · Power train
Alero cuts off while driving and won't start back for hours. Dealership and mechanics can't find out why this IS occurring. Extremely dangerous, the car randomly cuts off without warning. I have searched online and found this forum where others have encountered the very same issue: http://www.carcomplaints.com/oldsmobile/alero/2000/engine/engine_cuts_off_while_driving.shtml.
- Exterior lighting › Turn signal
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. The contact stated that the turn signal failed to operate and the hazard lights operated independently. The failure recurred multiple times. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 03v327000 (exterior lighting). The approximate failure mileage was 82,762.
- Electrical system › Ignition
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. When the vehicle was turned off, it took repeated attempts to restart. The contact stated that the security light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the ignition needed to be replaced. The failure recurred…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. When the vehicle was turned off, it took repeated attempts to restart. The contact stated that the security light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the ignition needed to be replaced. The failure recurred and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer who also diagnosed that the ignition needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The failure mileage was 168,680.
- Unknown or other
"Electrical system recall" my car IS not registered with the recall but I am having the same issues with my cars starter as my brother did with his 2002 malibu that has this recall and he got his fixed and it fixed the problem. My car does not start half the time when I try to start it.
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
Driving down road all lights quit working nothing on dash works.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 14v400000 (electrical system) however, the part needed to perform the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Exterior lighting
When turning off car doesn't want to restart have to wait 10 min to start has problems with windows and lights took it to chevy dealership said they fixed but still has same problems
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Exterior lighting
When u shut your car off and try to restart won't start and security lights come on then u turn key off and on and wait 10 min to restart .general motors knows about problem. Has been seen by chevy dealer and hasn't been able to fix. This problems happens on regular bases.
- Electrical system · Unknown or other
I have a 2002 oldsmobile alero which throughout the years has not started when you put the key in the ignition and turn. Numerous times I've had my car towed to a mechanic only to have it start once it gets dropped off... Hence they were never able to diagnose the issue. On september 24, 2015 again…
I have a 2002 oldsmobile alero which throughout the years has not started when you put the key in the ignition and turn. Numerous times I've had my car towed to a mechanic only to have it start once it gets dropped off... Hence they were never able to diagnose the issue. On september 24, 2015 again my car just didn't start. Lights, blinkers,horn all worked but it would not turn on. Finally had a mechanic come to my house and do a diagnostic which read security system lockdown. I went online and this apparently IS an ongoing issue with this particular make and model. Hundreds of complaint are listed with the exact problem. Oldsmobile refuses to do a recall. I am a senior citizen on a fixed income. To fix this issue my mechanic wants $650.00. I feel because this has been an issue that has been reported repeatedly with thousands of complaints oldsmobile should be responsible to reimburse me.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. The contact stated that the turn signals failed intermittently and the hazard lights no longer illuminated. The contact mentioned that the engine and brake warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. The contact stated that the turn signals failed intermittently and the hazard lights no longer illuminated. The contact mentioned that the engine and brake warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The technician was unable to diagnose the cause of the failures. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failures. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 129,000.
- Electrical system
2002 oldsmobile alero. consumer writes in regards to ignition switch recall repair issues. *smd the consumer requested reimbursement for the expenses incurred pertaining to the replacement of the ignition switch. The consumer stated several times the vehicle left her, as well as her son stranded. the vehicle belong to her son. However, he no *cnlonger owns it. *Jb updated 10/07/15*lj updated 12/12/2017*cn
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. While driving at approximately 40 mph, the engine stalled without warning and the vehicle did not restart. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 oldsmobile alero. While driving at approximately 40 mph, the engine stalled without warning and the vehicle did not restart. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired by an authorized dealer under nhtsa campaign number: 14v400000 (electrical system). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 128,000.
- Electrical system
I was driving down the street when the car just cut off on me with no warning. I had to force the steering wheel to turn while other cars where trying to keep from hitting me from behind . Finally got the car off of the main street and onto a side street, until I was able to get the car towed .…
I was driving down the street when the car just cut off on me with no warning. I had to force the steering wheel to turn while other cars where trying to keep from hitting me from behind . Finally got the car off of the main street and onto a side street, until I was able to get the car towed . After having the car towed and it not being able to restart a mechanic told me that the anti theft system went out on the car so now I am without a car and no way to get it fixed because as I was told that they were having a problem with this on most older gm models. *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Turn signal failures
In december 2004, gm issued a special policy for my 1999-2000 alero, grand am and malibu vehicles not covered under recall 03v327. The policy covered turn signal/hazard flasher failure for a period of 10 years or 150,000 miles (whichever occurred first) to provide a no cost replacement of the hazard switch. Gm sent…
In december 2004, gm issued a special policy for my 1999-2000 alero, grand am and malibu vehicles not covered under recall 03v327. The policy covered turn signal/hazard flasher failure for a period of 10 years or 150,000 miles (whichever occurred first) to provide a no cost replacement of the hazard switch. Gm sent letters to owners starting december 30, 2004.in january 2006, gm will update the special policy to include my 2002 alero, grand am and malibu vehicles not covered under recall 03v-327.the policy covers turn signal/hazard flasher failure for a period of 10 years or 150,000 miles (whichever occurs first) to provide a no cost replacement of the hazard switch.gm will send letters to owners starting late april 2006.the actions taken by the manufacturer IS sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.the agency reserves the right to take future action if warranted by the circumstances.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248778Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247780This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10245891Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10245890Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242298This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10240793This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
- 10236164This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232811This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10230697This Preliminary information communicates to the technician the need to inspect the induction system for potential icing issues in very cold ambient temperatures. To allow the ice to melt so that it can be drained from the related components. That any of the listed DTC's may set with or without poor engine performance.
- 10227056This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
Every Oldsmobile Alero model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.