Two problems related to alternator/generator/regulator have been reported for the 2001 Oldsmobile Aurora. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Oldsmobile Aurora based on all problems reported for the 2001 Aurora.
Headlights flicker really bad, usually when vehicle isn't at temperature and accelerating. I usually watch my digital voltmeter and my voltage jumps from 12 volts to 15. 5 (normal operating voltage is usually 14. 8) almost instantly back and forth. I drove it on its first long distance run of about 80 miles and after my lights flickered for about 3 minutes the check engine light popped on. I just bought this car a month ago and while I was reading the maintenance log the alternator has just been replaced.
We purchased a used 2001 olds Aurora in March 2003. We also purchased the extended warranty offered by the dealer. Shortly after we purchased this vehicle we noticed the headlights and interior lights flucuating wildly (as if we were turning off the headlights) along with the voltage. The dealer said this was "normal". It got so bad my husband refused to let me drive the car, even during the day in the event the car shut off. We took the car to another olds dealer who, at our request, replaced the voltage regulator, to no effect. This has happened at least 4 additional times. The dealer says they can find nothing wrong with the car, but the lights continue to flash, and now other electrical problems are surfacing, along with numerous blown fuses and bulbs. It is quite distracting to other drivers on the road, in addition to this cars driver, to have the headlights flash constantly, and does nothing to inspire trust in the safety of this car. I am afraid it will shut off while being driven, or possibly have some sort of electrical fire.