Alero (2003)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
LA1
3.4L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
L61
2.2L 4-cyl / 170 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Oldsmobile Alero regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (3)
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.
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.
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 124, 'ACCELERATOR CONTROL SYSTEMS.' IN HOT AMBIENT CONDITIONS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARM MAY STICK AT THE ATTACHMENT TO THE BRACKET AND NOT RETURN TO THE ENGINE IDLE POSITION WHEN THE OPERATOR LIFTS HIS FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL.
Alternatives in Midsize Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2003-2003 Oldsmobile Alero problems?
The 2003-2003 Oldsmobile Alero has accumulated 187 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Electrical System, Engine, Safety Systems. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Oldsmobile Alero engine is most reliable?
The 2003-2003 Oldsmobile Alero was offered with 2 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.4L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2003-2003 Oldsmobile Alero a good used car?
The 2003-2003 Oldsmobile Alero can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 187 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2003-2003 Oldsmobile Alero have?
The 2003-2003 Oldsmobile Alero has 187 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2003-2003 Oldsmobile Alero?
There are 3 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2003-2003 Oldsmobile Alero vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Oldsmobile Alero?
Before buying a used Oldsmobile Alero, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Electrical System, Engine, Safety Systems, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Alero?
The 2003 Oldsmobile Alero received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: N/A stars. Electronic Stability Control: No. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 187 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.