2004 Oldsmobile Alero Problems
Used OLDSMOBILE ALERO shoppers should review this model-year complaint and recall record before making an offer. Based on 108 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Electrical Faults the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2004 Oldsmobile Alero has 108 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Electrical Faults.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2004 Oldsmobile Alero Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 3 2004 Oldsmobile Alero trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 3 trims analysed.
2004 Oldsmobile Alero Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program2 variants tested — showing 2004 Oldsmobile Alero 4-DROfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not RatedFrontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
Not RatedSource: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero has 108 owner complaints, 7 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Electrical Faults. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Oldsmobile
- Model
- Alero
- Model year
- 2004
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 108
- Crash-related complaints
- 7
- Safety recall campaigns
- 2
- Top reported component
- Electrical Faults
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 25
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 21 / 31
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- No
Common problems
Most common 2004 Oldsmobile Alero problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Electrical Faults
Headlight/Taillight Failures
Engine Problems
Complaint patterns center on Electrical Faults, Headlight/Taillight Failures, Engine Problems. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2004 Oldsmobile Alero?
This OLDSMOBILE ALERO year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection.
Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who prioritize complete maintenance records and pass a pre-purchase inspection.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers who want a lower-risk ownership profile may prefer comparing nearby model years before committing.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2004 Oldsmobile Alero
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the most frequently reported complaint components on this model year
- Confirm recall repairs were completed and documented
- Check for accident damage, title brands, and mileage inconsistencies on the exact VIN
Before You Close the Deal
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2004 Oldsmobile Alero, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
The OLDSMOBILE ALERO has 108 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. 7 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Recall context: 2 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase.
- 108 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 2 federal recall campaigns
- 7 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Full breakdown
All 2004 Oldsmobile Alero complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Faults | 56 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 20 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 17 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 13 | 7 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 10 | 1 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 6 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Hydraulic | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 5 | 1 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 5 | 1 | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 1 | 1 | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Traction Control System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Air | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
Lo que debes resaltar en el reporte: Kilometraje: 60,000 millas (especifica que el daño grave se notó a las 40,000). Componente: "Structure: Frame and Members" (Estructura: Chasis y travesaños). Riesgo: "Complete structural failure" (Fallo estructural completo
I have exhaust coming into the car through the vent when thermostat is in use, my back seats are not in the clip and flip up with no problem and I have a 8 year old son who sits back there, my break pedal will lock and I cannot apply pressure, my dash lights just stopped working …
Airbag no deployment Loss of power steering Brakes to floor Car died Recall ignored prior and still today after set up now off their schedule Friendly Chevrolet rich Gardner
Friendly Chevrolet 62704 has refused the open recall on my vehicle after being on schedule for tommrow 8a.m Service Manager Sir Richard said it's a waste of time and not my issue.
The contact owns a 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the vehicle accelerated independently. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated she was able to drive to her destination. The contact called multiple local dealers: L…
THE HAZARD AND TURN SIGNALS DOESN'T WORK AT ALL. I BOUGHT A NEW TURN SWITCH, PUT A NEW FUSE IN AND EVERYTHING AND NOTHING WORKS. WHEN I DRIVE ON THE ROAD THE TURN SIGNAL DOESNT COME ON AND SOMETIMES IT CAUSES A LOT OF PROBLEMS.
NOTICED THE WINDSHIELD WAS LEAKING WHICH CAUSE TO LEAK ON EQUIPMENT UNDER INSIDE AND OUT DASHBOARD WITCH CAUSED EROSION AND DEFECTS TO OTHER OPERATING EQUIPMENT LEAD TO CAR STALLING WHILE DRIVING,SOME OPERATIONS OF WILL WORK, SOME WON'T. IT HAS A MIND OF IT'S OWN,THE SECURITY SYS…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AUTONATION CHEVROLET AMARILLO (2200 E I-40, AMARILLO, TX 79103) TO BE REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE CONTACT RECEIVED TWO NEW KEYS FROM THE DEALE…
RECENTLY STARTED FINANCING A VEHICLE THROUGH CAR HOP. THEY HAD ME SIGN A FORM SAYING THAT THERE WAS A POSSIBILITY OF A RECALL ON THE VEHICLE, BUT DIDN'T SPECIFY WHAT. READING IT OVER NOW THE FORM STATES THEY WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE TO CORRECT THIS RECALL. RECALL NUMBER IS 14V400.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELTS FAILED TO LOCK. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A LEG INJURY AND A CONCUSSION, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION…
THE HAZARD LIGHT BUTTON FELL INTO THE DASHBOARD AND THE BLINKER SIGNALS ONLY INTERMITTENTLY WORK. THEY WILL SOMETIMES STOP WORKING WHILE IN THE MIDDLE OF A TURN, OTHER TIMES WILL WORK FOR A FEW DAYS, AND THEN RANDOMLY STOP AGAIN FOR NO CONSISTENT AMOUNT OF TIME. UPON RESEARCHING …
I OWN A 2004 ALERO OLDSMOBILE I PURCHASED THE CAR USED IN 2008. IT LATER ONLY HAD ONE RECALL WHICH WAS FOR THE IGNITION ISSUES. WHILE THE CAR IS ON AND IN DRIVE THE KEY IS STILL ABLE TO BE PULLED OUT OF THE IGNITION AND THE CAR STILL REMAINS ON AND IN DRIVE. I AM ALSO EXPERIENCIN…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. AFTER DRIVING AND ARRIVING AT HER DESTINATION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE KEY CAME OUT OF THE IGNITION SWITCH ON ITS OWN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THIS WAS AN EVERY DAY OCCURRENCE EVER SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED FOR AN IGN…
"TAKATA RECALL" I WAS HAVING TROUBLE STARTTING MY CAR SO I WENT TO AUTO DEALERSHIP AND BOUGHT A KEY WHICH COST $38.. IT WORKED GREAT FOR MAYBE A MONTH. THEN I TOOK MY CAR TO CAR WASH AND TURNED THE IGNATION SWITCH OFF AND GOT OUT OF CAR. WHEN I WAS READY TO GO, THE CAR WOULD N…
BOUGHT CAR A YEAR AGO, IT HAD ISSUES WITH TURN SIGNALS NOT WORKING. I GOOGLED ISSUE AND REPLACED HAZARD SWITCH 125,000 MILES. NOW AT 155,000 TIMING CHAIN SLIPPED, IT'S REPLACEMENT WORTH MORE THAN CAR VALUE. I HEARD AFTER 2004 A CHANGE WAS MADE BECAUSE OF ISSUES BUT NO RECALL. CAR…
MY TURNING SIGNALS WORK, BUT WHEN NOT IN USE THE SIGNAL NOISE DOES A RAPID BEEP, BEEP NOISE, EVEN WHEN I DRIVE AND SIT IDLY.
MY GRANDDAUGHER TO BE RAN INTO THE BACK OF ANOTHER CAN GOING ONLY ABOUT 25 MPH. THE AIRBAGS CAME OUT BUT DID NOT DEFLATE. THEY HAD A CUT IN THEM. SHE DID NOT GET HURT BUT IF SHE HAD BEEN GOING FASTER OR IF I HAD BEEN DRIVING AND HAD A WRECK IT COULD HAVE CAUSED MAJOR DAMAGE. …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 OLDSMOBILE ALERO EQUIPPED WITH FIRESTONE FR710 TIRES, SIZE: P215/60R16. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE THREAD ON THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE SEPARATED AND CAUSED THE FRONT FENDER AND WHEEL WELL LINER TO PARTIALLY DETACH. IN ADDITION, THE DOOR TRIM AND REAR B…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 OLDSMOBILE ALERO. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. …
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero.
Safety recalls
2004 Oldsmobile Alero recalls
2 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. 2 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2004 Oldsmobile Alero buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 108 owner complaints, 7 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns for this model year. This OLDSMOBILE ALERO year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero?▾
#1: Electrical Faults (56 complaints). #2: Headlight/Taillight Failures (20 complaints). #3: Engine Problems (17 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero, NHTSA complaints include 7 crash-related reports and 2 fire reports out of 108 total complaints. 7 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero have any recalls?▾
Yes. 2 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. A major recall area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION. 2 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2004 Oldsmobile Alero?▾
This OLDSMOBILE ALERO year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs. Pay extra attention to Electrical Faults during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpectorAI.
Wider context: See the full Oldsmobile Alero reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.