🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Oldsmobile Model: Alero Model Years Covered: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 Body Styles Covered: 2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan Codes Platform Code: GM N platform (later updated) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Car Target Demographic: Economy-conscious buyers, commuters, young families Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Dodge Neon Key Features Design Philosophy: Stylish, sporty compact with a focus on value and a comfortable interior. Interior Space: Relatively spacious for its class, particularly in the front seats. Value Proposition: Offered a good balance of features, performance, and price. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive owner information for 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 250-350 pages (typical for this era/type of manual) Manual Type Manual Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Compatibility Operating Systems: All versions of Windows & Mac Delivery Method Delivery: Instant Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Instrument Cluster Indicators: Detailed explanation of all warning lights, gauges, and indicators Entertainment Systems: Operation of audio systems, radio, CD player, and speaker configurations Climate Controls: Operation of HVAC system, air conditioning, heater, and ventilation controls Lighting Controls: Headlight operation (low/high beam), parking lights, fog lights (if equipped), interior lighting Driver Controls: Steering wheel controls, cruise control, wiper/washer controls, power window/mirror operation Locks And Security: Door lock operation, remote keyless entry, anti-theft system, child security locks Seating And Restraints: Seat adjustment, seat belt usage and care, airbag system explanation, child seat installation guidance Driving Operation: Starting and operating the vehicle, gear selection (automatic transmission), parking brake operation Fuel System: Fuel filler location, fuel door operation, fuel recommendations Engine Compartment Overview: Identification of key components like engine oil dipstick, coolant reservoir, brake fluid reservoir, battery, air filter housing Maintenance And Specifications: General maintenance advice, fluid refill capacities, lubricant specifications Cleaning And Care: Interior and exterior cleaning recommendations, upholstery care Procedures Included Fluid Level Checks: Step-by-step instructions for checking and adding engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid Tire Maintenance: Information on tire inflation, checking tire wear, and potentially spare tire replacement procedures Wiper Blade Replacement: Instructions on how to replace windshield wiper blades Fuse Replacement: Location of fuse boxes and instructions for replacing blown fuses Light Bulb Replacement: Guidance on replacing exterior and interior light bulbs (may be limited) Troubleshooting Basic: Guidance on common issues and potential solutions (e.g., warning lights, starting problems) Reporting Safety Defects: Information specific to the U.S. on how to report safety-related defects Customer Assistance: Contact information and procedures for contacting Oldsmobile customer service Technical Depth Depth Level: Owner-level maintenance, basic operation, and feature explanation; not a full repair manual Diagnostic Capability: Basic troubleshooting, but no advanced diagnostic codes or procedures Visual Aids: Tons of pictures and diagrams Instructional Style: Easy to follow, step-by-step instructions for all skill levels 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Searchable Text: Likely searchable text, enabling quick information retrieval Print Quality Printability: All pages are printable Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.4L L4 (LA1 Ecotec), 3.4L V6 (L32) Performance 2.4L L4 Horsepower: 150 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.) 2.4L L4 Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.) 3.4L V6 Horsepower: 170 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.) 3.4L V6 Torque: 205 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Information Recommended Fuel: Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum Engine Compartment Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic (check manual for specific GM approval) Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.4L L4; 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for 3.4L V6 (approx.) Air Filter Air Filter Part Numbers: Refer to manual or parts catalog (e.g., AC-Delco A3132C for 2.4L, A3135C for 3.4L, but verify) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (4T40-E / 4T45-E) Optional Transmission Manual Transmission: Not commonly available, primarily automatic Features Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or Dexron VI equivalent Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approximately 8-9 quarts (7.5-8.5 liters) for a fluid change (verify in manual) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 103.2 inches (2621 mm) Length: 184.5 inches (4686 mm) Width: 67.5 inches (1715 mm) Height: 55.5 inches (1410 mm) Weights Curb Weight: 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg) depending on engine/trim Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 3850-4000 lbs (1746-1814 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: 14.7 cubic feet (0.416 m³) for Sedan; 13.8 cubic feet (0.391 m³) for Coupe (approx.) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating: Generally rated Good or Acceptable in frontal impacts for its era (verify specific year ratings) IIHS Front Offset Crash Test: Acceptable or Marginal ratings were common for vehicles of this platform in the early 2000s (verify specific year ratings) Active...
Oldsmobile was GM's pioneer brand, known for innovation (e.g., the first automatic transmission) and performance.
Model Evolution
Alerogenesis:
The Alero was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year as a replacement for the Oldsmobile Achieva and Cutlass. It was designed to inject youth and style into the Oldsmobile lineup.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Pontiac Grand Am and Chevrolet Malibu, based on the GM N platform.
Design Updates:
Received minor updates during its run, including revised fascias, headlights, and interior trim. The most significant change was the introduction of the 2.4L Ecotec engine in 2002.
Production
Production Period:
1998-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Lansing, Michigan, USA
Brand Discontinuation Impact:
The Alero was one of the last models produced by Oldsmobile before the brand was phased out by General Motors in 2004.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Journal Reviews:
Generally received mixed reviews, praised for its styling and value but criticized for some interior materials and ride quality compared to top Japanese competitors.
Safety Awards:
No significant safety awards were widely publicized for the Alero, reflecting the safety standards of the late 1990s and early 2000s.