🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Oldsmobile

Model:

Alero

Model Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

Platform:

GM "N" Body (shared with Chevrolet Lumina/Impala, Pontiac Grand Prix, Buick Century/Regal - facelifted platform)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Compact/mid-size sporty coupe and sedan, positioned as a stylish and affordable option within the Oldsmobile lineup during its era.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, and Pontiac Sunfire.

Key Features:

Sleek styling, availability of performance-oriented engines (3.4L V6), sporty handling (relative to segment), and a focus on value.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models/Engines/Trim/Transmissions Types Covered

Page Count:

Not specified, but described as 'Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual'

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Downloadable (PDF compatible)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, battery, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and wiring diagrams.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, shift linkages.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul (e.g., 4T65E), hydraulic controls, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM).

Drivetrain:

Axles, CV joints, differential, wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS system (including sensors and module), parking brake.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rod ends, alignment.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust pipes, emissions control.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, heater core, coolant types and capacities.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core, blower motor.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, mirrors, trim, weatherstripping.

Body Interior:

Dashboard, seats, upholstery, interior trim panels, airbags, seatbelts.

Electrical Components:

Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, audio system, instrument cluster.

Chassis Electrical:

Body control module (BCM), various sensors, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuilding, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, steering system repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic connector locations.

Installation Procedures:

Component replacement, accessory installation (where applicable).

Specifications:

Torque specifications, fluid capacities, fluid types, electrical specifications, alignment settings.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major overhaul and complex diagnostics. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions and illustrations.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High quality, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

2.4L DOHC L4 (LD9 'Twin Cam')

Engine Option 1 Displacement:

2397 cc (2.4 Liters)

Engine Option 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 150 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine Option 1 Torque:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine Option 2:

3.4L OHV V6 (LA3)

Engine Option 2 Displacement:

3387 cc (3.4 Liters)

Engine Option 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 170-175 hp @ 4800-5200 rpm

Engine Option 2 Torque:

Approx. 200-205 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm

Compression Ratio 2.4L:

9.5:1

Compression Ratio 3.4L:

9.4:1

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, 89 or higher for optimal performance with V6)

Throttle Body:

Drive-by-wire throttle control introduced in later model years (check specific year/model).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (M5N/MM5)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4T65-E)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, includes a torque converter. Later models might have Driver Shift Control (DSC) or manual shifting modes on some trims.

Manual Transmission Features:

Standard clutch operation, cable-actuated shifter.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.2 inches (2621 mm)

Length:

Approx. 185.0 inches (4699 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.5 inches (1765 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approx. 3000-3300 lbs (1360-1497 kg) depending on engine and trim.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Typically around 4000-4200 lbs (1814-1905 kg).

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 13.9 cubic feet (coupe), 14.7 cubic feet (sedan).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Good (for the model years tested, generally)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Good (for the model years tested, generally)

NHTSA Side Impact Driver:

Acceptable/Good (varies by year and specific test)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for the model years tested, generally)

ABS:

Standard on most models, optional on some base trims.

Traction Control:

Optional on higher trims, often tied to V6 models.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver and passenger) standard. Side-impact airbags optional on some models.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio system, optional CD/cassette player. Later models may have steering wheel audio controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, optional traction control. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.

Connectivity Features:

Basic car stereo connectivity. OnStar integration was an option on some later models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Refer to manual for specific engine recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using ACDelco Professional Iridium Spark Plugs (e.g., P/N 41-983).

Spark Plug Replacement 3.4L:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using ACDelco Professional Iridium Spark Plugs (e.g., P/N 41-990).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API Certified).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.4L; Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 3.4L.

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 (Dex-Cool) or equivalent orange silicate-free coolant.

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Dexron-VI ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or Dexron-III H if Dexron-VI is unavailable and approved by manufacturer. Check manual for specific recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GM P/N 12345349 or equivalent GL-4 manual transmission fluid (75W-85 or 75W-90).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3.

Known Issues:

Intake manifold gaskets prone to leaks (especially 3.4L V6), power steering pump failures, front suspension component wear (struts, ball joints), ABS sensor failures, fuel pump issues, and door lock actuator failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Oldsmobile, established in 1897, was the first American automobile division of General Motors (GM). Known for innovation and popular models like the Cutlass and Eighty-Eight, it was discontinued by GM in 2004.

Model Evolution:

The Oldsmobile Alero was introduced for the 1999 model year as a replacement for the Achieva and Cutlass Calais. It was designed to appeal to a younger demographic with modern styling and features. It shared its platform with the Pontiac Grand Am and was available as a two-door coupe and four-door sedan. The Alero was produced for six model years and was one of the final Oldsmobile models before the brand's discontinuation.

Production Years:

1999-2004

Assembly Location:

Lansing, Michigan, USA (GM's Lansing Car Assembly Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Alero was generally considered a competent entry in its segment, often noted for its styling and value proposition, but did not typically receive major automotive awards.