Six problems related to engine and engine cooling have been reported for the 1999 Oldsmobile Alero. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Power windows have both went out had to replace the motor for that, 2 times now the rack and pinion has came out and 2 times I have had to replace altenator had to replace overflow resorvoir I dont find this to be a reliable or safe car to be in. I bought it used so who knows what has happened before I got it I forgot to mention my part-time signal lights they work when they want to and I had to replace air conditioning compresser I have only had car 5 yrs myself and its so not worth the money I have put into it the dates vary but the first was in 2004 and the last was 2009.
Without any warning or signs, the car engine died at approximately 65,000 mi. Car was driven locally and was well taken care of. It cost $1,700. 00 to replace (with an engine that had 43,000 miles. ), and seems that the engine should have lasted for more than 65,000 miles.
Loosing engine coolent. No visible leaking on the ground.
Car engine compartment completely engulfed in flame after 5 mile drive to a shopping mall. Car was cruising parking lot looking for space when fire erupted.
Within my 36,000 of driving from 50,222 to 86,119 my intake gaskets have been replaced twice. My rack has been replaced twice and will need to be replaced a third time. I am also aware that the rack was replaced while the previous owner had the car. Recently I realized why water was getting into my passenger side of the vehicle. The window seal is shifted causing the window to leak if the car is parked at certain inclines. This repair is not covered by my pre-owned vehicle warranty. All major repairs have been covered by my warranty and any additional costs have bee quote "eaten" by repair facilities.
While placing car in reverse the engine began knocking and has not ran since. Not happy at all still owe a lot of money and car doesn't run!! not worth the money.