Model year
2003 Oldsmobile Alero
NHTSA lists 2 recalls and 184 complaints for the 2003 Oldsmobile Alero (recall file dated Oct 23, 2026; complaint file dated Oct 23, 2026). The components listed on the most complaints are ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (79), AIR BAGS (22), ENGINE (17). NHTSA star ratings from before model year 2011 use an older method and are not shown here. EPA rates it 21–25 mpg combined depending on configuration (fuel economy file dated Sep 29, 2026). EPA's annual fuel-cost figures for these configurations are $2,700–$3,200, based on 15,000 miles and 55% city driving.
Recalls
14V400000 · Jul 3, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM)…
04V528000 · Nov 1, 2004
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 124, 'ACCELERATOR CONTROL SYSTEMS.' IN HOT AMBIENT CONDITIONS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARM MAY STICK AT THE ATTACHMENT TO THE BRACKET AND NOT RETURN TO THE ENGINE IDLE…
Complaints
184 distinct complaints. Crash flag on 18, fire flag on 1, injury field 15, deaths field 1. A complaint can be counted under more than one component. The injury and death figures are the file's numbers (the highest value on each complaint, then added), not a separate verified count of people.
Investigations
No investigations are matched to this name.
Safety ratings
NHTSA star ratings from before model year 2011 use an older method and are not shown here.
Fuel economy
| Configuration | Fuel | City | Hwy | Comb | kWh/100 mi | Range | Annual fuel cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alero · 2.2L · Automatic 4-spd · Front-Wheel Drive | Regular Gasoline | 21 | 30 | 25 | — | — | $2,700 |
| Alero · 2.2L · Manual 5-spd · Front-Wheel Drive | Regular Gasoline | 22 | 30 | 25 | — | — | $2,700 |
| Alero · 3.4L · Automatic 4-spd · Front-Wheel Drive | Regular Gasoline | 18 | 27 | 21 | — | — | $3,200 |
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Check a vehicle
This page is not a VIN lookup. NHTSA's recall tool checks a specific vehicle: nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's page for this model year is 2003 Oldsmobile Alero at NHTSA. Complaint narratives stay on NHTSA's site and are not copied here.