9.3
really awful
engine problem
It all started that I kept losing the heat in the car, and then the low oil light came on periodically. Next thing I know, I had a bad air intake gasket, a few days after the head gasket went bad. I was told by a number of trusted mechanics that the shotty plastic air intake gasket that GM used ultimately lead to the failure of the head gasket. I really think GM should acknowledge this problem as a recall, because there are many complaints and problems with the air intake gaskets and head gaskets on this make and model of this vehicle. So anyone out there with the 3400 engine should expect to shell out alot of cash for this problem. It's a big pain that I think we as car owners shouldn't have to deal with!!
- kusterer, Bay City, MI, US
Within weeks of buying the car from a used dealership, the low oil light came on frequently. The dealership would not acknowledge a problem. The engine started to tap. After the warranty ran out, then they indicated that antifreeze was leaking into the oil and that the manifold intake gasket would need to be made. Cost was $1000. The lifters were not replaced. A local mechanic indicated that all Aleros will eventually have the same problem. So far, no recall from GM.
- oldslemon, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
I could put a complaint in every category with this Alero. Absolutely the worst vehicle I have ever owned! Had the engine fixed at a cost of $3,500 about 2 months ago and now the signal lights are not working and the engine light is again on. Brakes have been replaced, mechanism for the automatic windows was replaced, the back window defroster is not working....it is ALWAYS something. It has cost a fortune to keep repairing these problems. I will NEVER buy an Oldsmobile vehicle again.
- Tracy M., Toronto, ON, Canada
At 63,000 my head gasket went out. I did take it to a GM dealer, paid $50 for their review, and drove it down the street to my mechanic. I paid $950 to replace it, and was able to get all but $200 back from GM through their customer service.
One year later, my intake manifold went out. Keep in mind that this was just replaced when my head gasket was replaced. I called GM customer service again, and they wouldn't help me foot the bill this time.
I have 120K on my car now, and it only starts when it feels like it.
Side note: I'm a former, salary GM employee and I will never again buy another GM vehicle. Ever. I know how they are built and it's not with pride or respect. I will be buying a non-GM car this weekend.
- nicolenil, Edwardsville, IL, US
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Extended coverage does not want to cover this. Taking the easy way out. The manufacturer knows there is a flaw with the intake manifold but like all big companies they won't own up to it
- ronio, Lawton, OK, US
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
I had this fixed by having the upper lower intake manifold gaskets replaced. To my horror I now have to have them replaced again two years later. What's going on?! I love GM and I want them to survive but I now see why the public is hostile toward them.
- hwolfe iii, Detroit, MI, US