“Tl* the contact owns a 2001 oldsmobile alero. The contact stated that the ignition failed and caused the engine to stall while driving 55 MPH. The driver lost control of the vehicle and crashed into the guardrail. The contact suffered injuries to the left shoulder and neck, which required medical attention. A police report was not filed.”
Owner complaint, filed May 28, 2015
“After having recall of ign. Key performed, the key became hard to turn on, catching and having to wiggle to start the engine. Vehicle has stalled while driving 3 times, loosing power breaks and steering, coast to stop, and vehicle starts again.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 8, 2015 at 126,102 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the electrical systemRecall (red: the electrical system)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2001 Alero peaked in 2003, with 51 filed that year. Owners had filed 58 complaints about the electrical system before the first recall that covers it, 14V400000 in July 2014; 40 more have come in since. In 2023 owners filed 1 so far.
Defect. 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 year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
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.
Fuel System, Other › Storage › Tank Assembly › Pressure Relief Devices07E021000
Filed Mar 12, 2007742 vehiclesDelphi
Defect. 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. 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.
Filed Aug 28, 2003670,740 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE HAZARD WARNING SWITCHES THAT MAY EXPERIENCE SOLDER JOINT CRACKING CAUSED BY RAPID TEMPERATURE TRANSITIONS AND THE SOLDERING PROCESS. IF SOLDER JOINT CRACKING OCCURS AND RESULTS IN AN OPEN CIRCUIT, THE TURN SIGNALS/HAZARD LAMPS BECOME INTERMITTENT OR INOPERATIVE.
Risk. WHEN THE TURN SIGNALS ARE INOPERATIVE, THE DRIVER CANNOT USE THEM TO SIGNAL INTENT TO TURN THAT COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HAZARD WARNING SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 5, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
Equipment › Other › Owners/Service/Other Manual03V250000
Defect. CERTAIN MINIVANS, PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEM." THE OWNER'S MANUAL DOES NOT EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER UNIVERSAL ANCHORAGE SYSTEM.
Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
Remedy. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A SUPPLEMENT FOR THEIR OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS SUPPLEMENT DESCRIBES AND SHOWS THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORS THAT ARE LOCATED IN THE VEHICLE AND ON THE CHILD RESTRAINT OR BOOSTER CUSHION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
Filed Nov 13, 2000216 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSAXLES (RPO M86) FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION." WHEN A DRIVER ATTEMPTS TO SHIFT FROM 5TH GEAR TO REVERSE, A SHIFT INHIBITOR CAUSES THE TRANSMISSION TO BE MECHANICALLY IN 4TH GEAR EVEN THOUGH THE SHIFT LEVER INDICATES REVERSE GEAR.
Risk. IN THIS SITUATION, THE KEY CAN BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION WHILE THE TRANSMISSION IS IN A FORWARD GEAR, WHICH IS NOT PERMITTED BY THE STANDARD.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL DISABLE THE 5TH/REVERSE INHIBITOR BY REMOVING A RETAINING PIN AND REPLACE THE SHIFTER ASSEMBLY.
All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 3 name the 2001 Alero.
TURN SIGNAL FAILURESEngineering analysis EA02037Closed
Opened Dec 23, 2002Closed Sep 5, 2003Led to recall 03V327000headlights
By letter dated august 27, 2003, GM notified the agency that it is conducting a voluntary safety recall (NHTSA recall no. 03v327) involving certain model year (my) 2000-2001 chevrolet malibu, oldsmobile alero, and pontiac grand am.GM's recall covers 670,740 vehicles manufactured beginning february 1, 2000 through may 1, 2001 (alero and grand am) and february 1, 2000 through may 31, 2001 (malibu).GM reports that turn signal failure is due to solder joint cracking in the hazard switch, and has identified rapid temperature transitions of the hazard switch and the soldering process as the cause …
Odi opened ea 02-028 to review complaints of consumers reporting that their fuel gauge was incorrectly displaying the amount of fuel in the gas tank.the fuel gauge receives an electrical signal from a fuel tank sending sensor circuit card.a float arm in the tank moves electrical contacts that rub against the card as the level of fuel rises and falls.disruption of the electrical signal (such as caused by corrosion of the circuit card) will cause incorrect readings to register on the fuel gauge.GM reported in their response to odi dated january 13, 2003 that the primary cause of erratic fuel …
ERRATIC FUEL GAUGEInvestigation SQ01002Closed
Opened Jan 26, 2001Closed Sep 30, 2002throttle and acceleration
There is no summary currently available
Technical service bulletins
397 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2001 Alero. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
equipment 102engine 76electrical system 43visibility 25transmission 21brakes 21fuel system 18body and frame 17
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system
Vehicle 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 …
PIP4723JService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 25, 2024electrical system
This 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.
24-NA-098Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 6, 2024electrical system
This 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.
PIP4723DService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 31, 2020electrical system
This 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.
19NA273Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsDec 2, 2019electrical system
This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Procedures to Unlock Delco Radio with Theftlock.
PIP5601AService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 10, 2019electrical system
This 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 …
Showing the newest 6 of 43 bulletins about the electrical system, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Engine
Filed Apr 18, 2023KS
The car will shut off while driving/idling. There are no check engine lights. Took it to get the latest recall fixed that had to do with this and they just gave us new keys. It did not remedy the situation! Now we are paying to fix it because it is still shutting off while driving.
Electrical System
Filed Jul 26, 2022WI
The contact owns a 2001 Oldsmobile Alero. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V400000 (Electrical System) and requested to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The consumer stated the vehicle was junked 3 or 4 yrs ago because of the computer going out on the vehicle.
Electrical System
Filed Jul 11, 2021IL
While driving the vehicle the car shut off while ignition was on. No warning whatsoever
Electrical ground wire to Alternator burnt out; caused battery to lose charged replaced twice within 2 years.
Electrical System
Filed Aug 1, 2020130,000 milesNY
FOR SOME TIME THE TURN SIGNALS WOULD ONLY WORK INTERMITTENTLY. IT SEEMED LIKE I HAD MORE TROUBLE WITH THEM IF IT WAS VERY HOT AND HUMID OUTSIDE. THEN, THE TURN SIGNALS TRIGGERED THE HAZARD LIGHTS TO COME ON. THE TURN SIGNALS ARE NOW INOPERABLE. SOMETIMES THE HAZARD LIGHTS COME ON BY THEMSELVES AND I AM UNABLE TO TURN THEM OFF.THE TURN SIGNALS QUIT WORKING AS I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. THE TURN SIGNALS ARE COMPLETELY INOPERABLE NOW.
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Feb 14, 20195 milesCA
AIR COMING INTO THE INTAKE MANIFOLD AND MY LOW TRAC LIGHT COMES ON EVERY TIME I HAVE TO DO A TURNAROUND OR BACK AROUND IN A SLOW POSITION FROM A START POSISTION. SO IM NOT GETTING MY GAS MILEAGES WORTH NOR CAN I DO A UTURN IN A FAST ACCELERATION. IT WILL GET SLOWER THATS DANGEROUS IF UPCOMING TRAFFIC STARTS TO PROCEED MAKING IT LIABLE FOR AN ACCIDENT. IM SCARED FOR MY LIFE. IM IN CALIFORNIA IN LOS ANGELES.
Engine
Filed Aug 8, 2018178,000 milesOH
STARTER TURNS BUT WILL NOT START
Electrical System › Ignition
Filed Mar 30, 2018FL
2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEFECTIVE IGNITION COIL RECALL NOTICE STATES SAME PROBLEM AS CONSUMER BRAKE AND STEERING FAILURE ACCIDENT. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING OVER BUMPY PATCH IN THE ROAD THE IGNITION WAS INADVERTENTLY SWITCHED OUT OF THE "RUN" POSITION RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT.*JS
Structure › Body
Filed Nov 28, 201779,780 milesOH
JUST GOT THIS CAR FROM THE DEALER AND THERE IS A GAS LEAK ALSO THE KEY COMES OUT OF THE IGNITION WITH THE CAR ON ACCELERATION I HAVE TO PUT IT BACK IN AND WIGGLE IT TO GET IT OFF AND THERE'S A O-RING SENSOR LEAK CAN'T PASS THE ECHECK. I'VE HAD THIS CAR SINCE AUGUST AND THE ESTIMATE TO GET THE CAR FIXED TO PASS THE CHECK IS OVER THE AMOUNT FOR THE CAR AND I AM STILL PAYING A NOTE WHEN THE CAR IS STATION IS LEAKING GAS WHEN IT IS MOTION IT BARELY LEAKS WHEN I PARK IT, IT POURS OUT
Electrical System
Filed Jul 30, 2017194,073 milesMO
I WAS AT THE GRO. STORE CAME OUT AND THE CAR WOULD NOT START 1/2 TANK OF GAS HAD SOME ONE TO TRY A JUMP START TO NO AVAIL. THE NEXT DAY IT STARTED WENT TO WORK SAME THING IT TRIES TO START BUT WILL NOT AND THAT IS WHERE I AM NOW. WENT ON THE INTERNET AND SEE THAT I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE. I'M JUST LOOKING FOR HELP. AS MANY OTHER AMERICANS I DON'T HAVE MUCH MONEY AS A SINGLE MOM. I JUST NEED A ANSWER THANKS
Electrical System
Filed Jul 29, 201758,300 milesSC
SECURITY LIGHT COMES ON, WHEN FLASHING CAR WILL NOT START.
Exterior Lighting
Filed May 2, 2017MN
TURN SIGNAL INTERMITTENT AND SAFETY FLASHERS INOPERATIVE AT SAME TIME. DOESN'T MATTER IF IT'S IN MOTION, STATIONARY, ON CITY STREET, HIGHWAY, ETC., HAPPENS APPROX. 5 MINUTES AFTER BEING USED. I TOOK MY CAR TO A LOCAL STATION AND THEY COULDN'T REPAIR IT DUE TO INTERMITTENT PROBLEM AT FIRST. TOOK TO DIFFERENT SERVICE REPAIR AND THEY KNEW IMMEDIATELY OF THE RECALL AND SAID IT NEEDED A 4 WAY FLASHER SWITCH ASSEMBLY, AND TO TAKE IT TO MY LOCAL GM DEALER FOR REPAIR AND WHEN I DID, THEY DECLINED IT..!! RECALL: NHTSA CAMPAIGN #14V400000. IMMEDIATELY AFTER I BOUGHT THIS CAR FROM THE DEALERSHIP, PROSTROLLO AUTO MALL, MADISON, SD..I HAD THIS PROBLEM...IT CAME WITH THE CAR, SHOULDN'T THIS HAVE BEEN FIXED BY THE DEALERSHIP BEFORE THE SALE..?
Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Apr 30, 2017200,500 milesTX
I BELIEVE IT'S THE SECURITY SYSTEM OR SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE IGNITION. I'M NOT ABLE TO START MY, ALL THE LIGHTS ON DASH BOARD COME ON N AC KICKS ON BUT THE CAR WON'T START. WHEN IT WAS THE ONLY LIGHTS ON WAS THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON, TRAC OFF, SECURITY LIGHT & TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT.
Electrical System
Filed Apr 10, 2017161,000 milesWA
I RECENTLY HAD MY 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO KEY IGNITION FAIL ME. I HAD THE RECALL DONE ON THE KEYS. ALL THEY DID WAS PUT A PLASTIC KEY COVER ON MY KEYS. I GOT STRANDED DUE TO MY "NEW" KEYS NOT ALLOWING MY KEY IGNITION TO TURN OVER AT ALL. I STARTED TO DO RESEARCH AND HAVE FOUND MANY COMPLAINTS THAT GM WON'T FIX THE IGNITION PROBLEM JUST DRILLS A HOLE IN THE TOP OF THE KEY TO MAKE IT SEEM LIGHTER IN WEIGHT AND THEN JUST COVERS THE ORIGINAL KEY WITH PLASTIC. I CAN'T AFFORD THIS KIND OF THING HAPPENING. I WAS STRANDED FOR SEVERAL HOURS DUE TO THIS. WHAT IF THIS HAPPENS TO SOMEONE WITH CHILDREN?
Electrical System
Filed Dec 13, 2016WA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TURN SIGNALS AND HAZARD LIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY STOPPED WORKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED NOT TO BE INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V327000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Electrical System
Filed Nov 6, 2016CO
MY VEHICLE TURN SIGNALS ARE WORKING INTERMITTENTLY. UPON RESEARCHING THIS ISSUE, I SEE THAT THERE HAS SINCE BEEN A RECALL. HOWEVER, MY VIN DOESN'T FALL INTO THEIR CRITERIA, BUT THE EXACT SAME THING IS HAPPENING TO MY VEHICLE. THEY REFUSE TO REPAIR AT THEIR EXPENSE. THIS IS VERY UNSAFE AND I HAVE A YOUNG TEENAGER DRIVING THAT CANNOT BE WITHOUT THE USE OF TURN SIGNALS. THE RECALL NUMBER IS 03V327000. I INDICATED THE DATE THIS OCCURRED AS THE DATE THE VEHICLE WAS GIVEN TO MY DAUGHTER. HOWEVER, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING ISSUE WITH THE PREVIOUS OWNERS.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Nov 3, 2016MI
WE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM AS GM RECALL 03043 FOR 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO MODELS, BUT ARE TOLD OUR VIN IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. WHY? WE HAVE A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. TURN SIGNALS ARE INTERMITTENTLY INOPERATIVE. DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS. IF YOU MESS WITH THE HAZARDS, TURNING ON AND OFF, YOU MAYBE MIGHT GET YOUR TURN SIGNALS TO WORK INTERMITTENTLY. THIS IS WHAT THE RECALL IS DIRECTLY ABOUT, BUT WHEN OUR VIN IS ENTERED INTO RECALL DATA BASE, IT SAYS NO RECALLS FOR THIS VIN. DOESN'T MAKE SENSE TO US. VERY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE WITHOUT TURN SIGNALS. PLEASE ADVISE. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 19, 201690,000 milesNC
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE DASHBOARD PEELED AND THE AIR BAG WAS VISIBLE. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE AIR BAG WOULD DEPLOY INADVERTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
Power Train
Filed Aug 22, 2016NE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
WheelsFire
Filed Aug 16, 2016220,000 milesTN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE IN PARK, THE FRONT PASSENGERS SIDE WHEEL WELL CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AWAY FROM THE SCENE TO A SALVAGE YARD AND WAS DEEMED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 220,000.
Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 4, 2016DC
CAR CRANKS WONT START IT HASBTO DO WITH THE AN ELECTRIAL SYSTEM CAR THEFT MAYBE DID THE TEN MINT AND AT IM STILL WAITING TO GET THE IGNITIONSWITCH AND KEY THE RECALL TITLE N140350 DO UPSET WHEN I BOUGHT IT IN NOV.THE TWO KEYS I GOT ONE SPARE AND I THOUGHT THE OTHER WAS AN ORINGNAL ONE NEITHER HAVE THE CHIP SO THE FIRST I HAD PROBLEMS WE GOT IT TO WORK A FEW MONTHS NOW AGAIN TWICE IN A WEEK HOW AM I SUPPOSE GET IT TO THE DEALER IF I CANT GET IT TO TURN ON THIS IS CRAZY SOMETHING HAS TO BE DONE I READ DO MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME SITUATION SO WHAT DO I NOW THANK YOU DONNA
Electrical System
Filed Jun 23, 2016IN
THE TURN SIGNALS WORK SOMETIMES BUT IF IT RAINS THEY DON'T WANT TO.
Electrical System
Filed Jan 14, 2016125,000 milesNJ
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE TURNING SIGNAL FAILED TO OPERATE. THE TRAC OFF AND ANTI-LOCK SYSTEM WARNING LIGHTS DISPLAYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS STATED THAT THE DASHBOARD NEEDED TO BE OPENED IN ORDER TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
Electrical System
Filed Dec 3, 201563,680 milesNM
WHEN DRIVING THE TURN SIGNALS WILL WORK AND THEN NOT WORK AT RANDOM AND THIS CONCERNS ME, IT CAN CREATE A SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS SITUATION
Electrical System
Filed Nov 19, 201543,991 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. AFTER STOPPING THE VEHICLE, IT FAILED TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOCK CYLINDER AND IGNITION SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE REPAIRS NEEDED WERE NOT COVERED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 43,991.
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Nov 4, 2015190,258 milesCA
I PLUGGED IN THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER AND ABOUT THIRTY SECONDS AFTER I LIT MY CIGARETTE THE WIRES BEHIND THE DASH(INSTRUMENT PANEL) BEGAN TO SMOKE AND CAUGHT FIRE. THE WIRE COVERINGS WAS BURNT OFF TO SHOW BARE WIRES SHORTING MY ENTIRE CAR. THE FUSE LOCATED UNDER THE HOOD IN THE FUSE RELAY CENTER THAT WENT TO THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER WAS MELTED AND BURNT INTO THE RELAY BOX. NO ELECTRICAL IN MY ENTIRE CAR WORKS!!!
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 8, 2015178,000 milesNE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED AND WAS UNABLE TO RESTART. THE FAILURE OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE FUEL SENSOR FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 178,000.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 3, 201543,000 milesAR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE TRAVELING 60 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVATED, THE VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY ACCELERATED TO 80 MPH AND THEN SLOWED BACK DOWN. WHEN THE CONTACT STOPPED TO GET FUEL, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE FUEL PUMP FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH, CASING, AND RELAY SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AND THE FAILURES CEASED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 07E021000 (FUEL SYSTEM) AND 03V327000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 43,000. UPDATED 8/21/15*CN UPDATED 10/18/2017*CN
Electrical SystemCrash1 injured
Filed May 28, 2015GA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION FAILED AND CAUSED THE ENGINE TO STALL WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH. THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO THE GUARDRAIL. THE CONTACT SUFFERED INJURIES TO THE LEFT SHOULDER AND NECK, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE ENGINE AND THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) IN SEPTEMBER OF 2014; HOWEVER, THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Electrical System
Filed May 28, 201534,000 milesAR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE FAILURE RECURRED ONCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 34,000.
Engine
Filed May 7, 2015126,000 milesWI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE KEY REMAINED IN THE OFF POSITION AND FAILED TO TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V40000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 126,000. UPDATED 6/30/15*CN THE ENGINE AND FUEL PUMP WERE REPLACED. UPDATED 07/02/15*JB
Electrical System
Filed Apr 28, 2015NY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) AND THAT THE DEALER REFUSED TO PROVIDE THE RECALL REPAIR BECAUSE THE CONTACT DID NOT HAVE THE ORIGINAL FACTORY KEY. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE CONTACT WOULD NEED TO HAVE THE IGNITION REPLACED AND A NEW FACTORY KEY FOR THE RECALL REPAIR TO BE PERFORMED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.
Service Brakes
Filed Apr 4, 2015178,000 milesMN
BACKING VEHICLE FROM PARKING SPOT, WHEN APPLYING BRAKES, THERE WAS A CLUNK. UPON DRIVING AWAY AND APPLYING BRAKES NORMALLY, BRAKING ACTION WAS NOTICEABLY LESS. AFTER A CLOSER INSPECTION, FOUND THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL BRAKE PAD MATERIAL HAD CORRODED CAUSING SEPARATION FROM ITS BACKING PLATE. THESE PADS ARE AFTER MARKET PADS FROM ADVANCED AUTO, HAD ONLY BEEN ON THE CAR FOR ABOUT 12,000 MILES, AND APPROXIMATELY 23 MONTHS. THERE WAS CONSIDERABLE PAD REMAINING, BUT CORROSION HAD SET IN, CAUSING THE PAD TO SEPARATE FROM THE BACKING PLATE. THE ROTORS ARE APPROX 5 YEARS OLD, AND "CORRODED" BEYOND WHAT I CALL BEING SAFE TO USE. THERE IS NO NOTICEABLE WEAR TO THE ROTORS, ONLY SEVERE CORROSION IN THE COOLING AREAS. AFTER MARKETS PARTS SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO MEET DURABILITY REQUIREMENTS, NOT JUST PHYSICAL FIT AND OPERATION. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Mar 23, 2015ID
2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO UNINTENDED IGNITION KEY ROTATION RECALL. *SMD THE CONSUMER HAS BEEN UNABLE TO KEY AN APPOINTMENT TO GET THE RECALL PERFORMED. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONSUMER THEY NEEDED THE TWO ORIGINAL KEYS. THE CONSUMER STATED THEY DID NOT HAVE THE ORIGINAL KEYS; DUPLICATES WERE MADE BY THE DEALER AT THE TIME THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED. *JB
Electrical System
Filed Mar 3, 2015183,000 milesCA
SIGNAL TURN DON'T WORK, WORK ON AND OFF CAUSING HAZARD. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Jan 24, 2015130,000 milesIN
I NOTICED DURING THE THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY 2014 THAT MY TURN SIGNALS WORK WHEN THEY WANT TO . I WAS TURNING RIGHT AND MY MOM WAS RIDING WITH ME WHEN SHE NOTICED THAT MY TURN SIGNALS WAS NOT WORKING LEFT OR RIGHT. SO WE MADE IT TO OUR DOCTORS APPOINTMENT AND WHEN WE WERE LEAVING THEY WORKING . IT'S WEIRD BECAUSE BY CHANGING THE BULBS THE TURN SIGNALS ARE STILL GOING IN AND OUT WHEN THEY WANT TOO. AND WE NOTICED LIGHT FLUID LEAKAGE BUT IT WAS NOT LEAKING IN NOVEMBER WHEN I BROUGHT MY VERY OWN FIRST CAR FOR CASH AND I HAD THE OIL CHANGED SO I TOOK IT BACK TO JIFFY LUBES AND THE TECH COULD NOT FIND A PROBLEM, THIS WEEK JANUARY 21, 2014 MY STEERING WHEEL IS MAKING THIS STRANGE WHISTLING NOISE WHEN I MAKE A TURN, AND MY SECURITY LIGHT HAS CAME ON AND WILL NOT GO OFF. SO I DECIDED TO CHECK THE SAFETY GM RECALL LISTING FOR HELP. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Jan 8, 2015126,102 milesCA
AFTER HAVING RECALL OF IGN. KEY PERFORMED, THE KEY BECAME HARD TO TURN ON, CATCHING AND HAVING TO WIGGLE TO START THE ENGINE. VEHICLE HAS STALLED WHILE DRIVING 3 TIMES, LOOSING POWER BREAKS AND STEERING, COAST TO STOP, AND VEHICLE STARTS AGAIN. FEEL THIS IS DIRECTLY CONNECTED AND CAUSED BY THE FAULTY KEY AND IGNITION SYSTEM, APPEARS THE FAULTY KEY HAS CAUSED THE TUMBLER TO WEAR-OUT, AND ANY JARRING OF THE KEY AND OR DASH RESULTS IN IGNITION TO SHUT OFF. I HAVE CONTACTED GM AND THEY REFUSE TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM, SAYING THIS RECALL WOULD NOT CAUSE THE SYSTEM TO FAIL.. SAYING BECAUSE OF THE HIGH MILEAGE ON THE VEHICLE, IT IS NOT THERE FAULT. AND I MUST PAY FOR THE REPAIR.. BUT I PRAY TO DIFFER, IF THE DEFECTIVE KEY AND IGN. UNIT WERE NOT AT FAULT, THEN THE KEY/TUMBLER WOULD NOT HAVE WORN-OUT. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Dec 22, 2014179,961 milesSC
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL BECAME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 179,961.
Exterior Lighting › Turn Signal
Filed Dec 16, 2014270,000 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE TURN SIGNALS FAILED TO ACTIVATE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V327000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 270,000. ....UPDATED 01/23/15 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE SITTING AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT OR DRIVING 60 MPH, THE TURN SIGNALS WOULD NOT OPERATE. IT WAS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM BUT WHEN IT HAPPENED, PRESSING THE HAZARD BUTTON CAUSED THE TURNED SIGNALS TO WORK. THE VEHICLE WAS TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP, BUT THE TURN SIGNALS WORKED AT THE TIME. UPDATED 02/18/15.*JB
Electrical System
Filed Dec 8, 2014CA
2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO IGNITION SWITCH. *MW THE CONSUMER STATED THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS REPLACED IN NOVEMBER 2010, DUE TO THE VEHICLE STALLING WHEN PLACED IN REVERSE. ALSO, NONE OF THE GAUGES AND DASH LIGHTS WORKED, THE FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR AND HEAD GASKET WERE REPLACED. *JB
Electrical System
Filed Dec 5, 2014WI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BE SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE RECALL REPAIR WAS PERFORMED ON ONLY THE MAIN KEY AND NOT ON THE REMAINING TWO KEYS OF THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER DECLINED TO PERFORM ON THE RECALL REMEDY ON THE REMAINING TWO KEYS DUE TO THEM BEING AFTERMARKET KEYS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT DID NOT EXPERIENCE A FAILURE.
Electrical System
Filed Nov 21, 201442,000 milesGA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS EXPERIENCED PRIOR TO THE RECALL INITIATING BUT THE FAILURE SPECIFICS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000.
Exterior Lighting
Filed Nov 10, 2014106,285 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE TURN SIGNALS AND HAZARD LAMPS MALFUNCTIONED INTERMITTENTLY. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT THE FAILURE WAS DIRECTLY RELATED TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V327000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 106,285.
Electrical System
Filed Nov 10, 2014106,677 milesTX
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE WOULD SUDDENLY STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO PERFORMED THE REMEDY LISTED FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL). THE CONTACT STATED THAT IMMEDIATELY AFTER LEAVING THE DEALER, THE VEHICLE STALLED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE FROM A STOP LIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 106,677.
Electrical SystemCrash
Filed Nov 6, 2014150,000 milesTN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS, THE ENGINE STALLED AND THE POWER STEERING SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A POLE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE CONTACT STATED THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE AND DECLINED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
Electrical System › Ignition › Switch
Filed Nov 4, 201468,000 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH FAILED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE KEY HAD TO BE WIGGLED IN ORDER TO TURN THE IGNITION SWITCH OFF. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,000.
Electrical System
Filed Oct 28, 2014IL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY FAILED TO TURN INTO THE ON POSITION IN ORDER TO START THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED THE PASS LOCK SENSOR AND IGNITION SWITCH. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE CONTACT WAS NOTIFIED OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE CONTACT WAS WAITING FOR A RESPONSE FROM THE MANUFACTURER TO DETERMINE IF THE DEALER WOULD REMEDY THE FAILURE WITH THE RECALL REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Electrical System
Filed Oct 27, 2014NY
2001 OLDMOBILE ALERO. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO REIMBURSEMENT FOR RECALL REGARDING IGNITION SWITCH. *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE WINDOW REGULATORS HAD TO BE REPLACED. *JB
Electrical System
Filed Oct 8, 201480,000 milesNY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V355000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) AND DISAGREED WITH THE REMEDY BEING A PERMANENT REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000. UPDATED 11/21/14*CN UPDATED 5/7/2015 *JS
Complaints 1-50 of 364, newest first, reproduced as filed.
It is not among the Alero years to avoid. Owners filed 364 complaints, against about 322 for a typical Alero year. The most common complaint is about the electrical system (27%).
What is the most common problem with the 2001 Oldsmobile Alero?
The electrical system: 98 of the 364 complaints (27%) are about it. Owners most often say it stalls (14%), will not start (14%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (10%). The typical report comes at 95,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2001 Oldsmobile Alero have?
5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jul 3, 2014. The largest, 14V400000, covered 5,877,718 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2001 Oldsmobile Alero problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 64,825 miles. For the electrical system the midpoint is 95,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2001 Oldsmobile Alero?
Yes, 3 times. The latest, EA02037 ("TURN SIGNAL FAILURES"), was opened Dec 23, 2002 and closed Sep 5, 2003.
Are there service bulletins for the 2001 Oldsmobile Alero?
The manufacturer filed 397 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (76), the electrical system (43) and the visibility (25). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
1 death reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Jul 3, 2014. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.