2003 olds Alero. At 35K miles, both front wheel bearings failed. Upon taking it to the dealership for work, we were told that the front rotors and brakes also needed replacing. The bearings were replaced under warranty, but we were billed $400+ for brakes and rotors. I filed a complaint with the BBB and olds (after multiple calls) reimbursed us for half of the brake work. I was later told be a mechanic at the dealership that wheel bearing, rotor and pad failures were an ongoing problem with the Alero and Grand Am. Apparently GM did not feel it was worth standing behind. Now we have added 15K miles since the repair, and the new factory replacement rotors are already warped and causing uneven braking and steering shimmy. Stay away from this vehicle.

- Warren, IN, USA

At about 43,000 miles my 2003 olds Alero began experiencing grinding or humming noises from the front end that got louder with acceleration. After inspecting the front bakes and determining the brakes may need replacing I visited my local car dealership. After a test drive I was told the left front wheel bearings were damaged and needed replacement immediately. The entire driver side wheel bearing assembly was replaced at a cost of nearly $300.

- Little Chute, WI, USA

The right passenger side wheel bearing failed. There were only 37,811 miles on the car when it failed. The vehicle was having problems for about a week. The owner noticed problems while driving. The problem was evident as soon as vehicle picked up speed vehicle was making a noise, a humming sound. Owner had the wheel bearing replaced. General Motors did reimburse the owner for the repairs. Owner has been in contact with GM and his local dealership. The owner was aware of other people with similar problems with the same vehicle.

- Mentor, OH, USA