I just acquired a 1999 Alero GLS, which replaced my 1995 88 Royale. My 88 was done in the motor dept.
The Alero has 170K and looks extremely clean for the mileage. It was cheap, too, $700 .Nevertheless, it will need front axles and at least one front wheel bearing. It also will need brake pads.
Certain things about the Alero bug me after driving the 88. Headroom is limited and the car seems cheaper in many respects. On the road people tend to cut me off more, The cruise and AC don't work.
But unlike the 88 it has real nice paint, no dents and is shiny as hell. I also like the fact that it doesn't have a plastic intake manifold.
My 88 has not been sent to the crusher, so a revival is a possibility. It just seems ridculous considering what it needs, and teh fact that I purchased a complete car for less cost than repairing the 88.
I am wondering if I should I try to unload the Alero and either revive my 88 or get another. I think I really preferred the 88, dents and all.
Are there any other differences between the two models that I should bear in mind as I make my decision? Should I anticipate anything dreadful in the Alero's future, known problems, etc?
Any input would help.
Thanks!

In regards to the Alero, I would come to expect the following problems at some point in the future...

1. Window regulators breaking
2. Wheel bearing replacement-regularily
3. Front brake pads making noise like they're bad, even when they're in excellent shape.
4. Multifunction switch or hazard switch/flasher replacement- when you begin hearing the "tick,ticktick, tick" in the dash you'll understand what I mean
5. Intake manifold gasket replacement on the 3100&3400 V6 engines.....use the upgraded gaskets when replacing them (Felpro makes them)...if you see the intake area leaking antifreeze, fix it before it starts leaking antifreeze into the crankcase.
6. DO NOT use a K&N style air filter.....it will contaminate the mass airfolw sensor and cause run and shifting issues.


Hopefully I haven't scared you too bad...LOL After working on as many Aleros and Grand Ams as I have (they share the same body platform), I can honestly say that as much as I LOVE Olds, I'd never own an Alero, or it's sibling, the Grand Am.....

Just my own observations...

I just need to pipe in and say, "AMEN." I'm driving a Grand Am while my Intrigue is in the shop and while the Intrigue has its problems I just can't get used to the Grand Am.

Well, I can say that I'm not a big fan of the Alero. However, my wife has a 2003 Grand AM GT1. The leather interior makes the car alot more comfortable, and the styling is awesome too.

Here's a pic:



I owned an 02 Grand aM GT, and found the seats weren't as comfortable.

Naturally, my Aurora is the most comfortable car I've owned!