Used 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora Consumer Reviews
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GM's best is now gone
Why shoud GM sell Auroas when people will by the same car for $15,000 more just to have a Cadillac wreath on it. I love my Aurora. It get's great milage and has a smooth and powerful V8 engine. It's quiet, fun to drive, and completly trouble free. It is GM's best kept secret.
2003 olds aurora
Had this baby since 2007--still going strong with 79,000 miles! Tune-ups and oil changes have been regular--no major repairs to speak of. Great car-great styling and great performance! I only wish they still made the Aurora :( I can only imagine what a 2018 would look like!!!
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I'm very happy with my Aurora!
I've owned my Olds for 3 years and I have to say it's the best car I've ever had! It's very comfortable to drive, especially on 3 day road trips. I get 33mpg (highway driving). Amazing what high octane fuel and K&N air filters can do for mileage and passing power! It's very safe/stable driving on highways or in the city in all whether conditions be it be rain, ice or blizzard. I can't even tell the roads are bad it handles so well! Here in Canada we have extreme road conditions and I have no problem passing other cars/trucks (good or poor road conditions). There has been no work done to the car except regular maintenance. No breakdowns or problems. Car has 77,400 miles on it so far.
Why buy an import
This car has been absolutely reliable. Not one penny in two years/30,000 miles. The styling is unique and attractive. The fact that there are few of them on the road makes it a much more distinctive look and a head turner. The leather interior and the seating make it extraordinarily comfortable to drive. The Bose sound system is as good or better than any other factory-installed system that I've heard.
Fun to drive
An excellent car to drive and with the interior extras very comfortable for long distance trips. The vehicle was purchased used with 43,000 miles and after 10,000 miles the only trouble so far will be to replace the original rear shocks which are rather pricey due to computer linkage. Plenty of power and for a V-8 on the open highway I can get 25 miles to the gallon.
Capuccino Aurora
Big sport sedan with a de-bored Northstar 32V V8 that is super smooth and works well with the great automatic. Handling is tight and firm for a big sedan.
Great Car (Giving it to my son)
I have never been able to find a car comparable to it. A four door family sedan with performance and style and even a V8. I am giving it to my son.
A steal
The Aurora has a better, more reliable engine, more passenger compartment space, is as distinctively attractive, and sells for much less than the BMW 5- Series and the Lexus ES 300. An honest person will admit that the appearance of the car and the maker’s cachet make up the majority of his purchasing decisions. Why else would someone choose an ES over an Aurora? The ES is $3,000 more than the Aurora, yet it is just a Camry with a few appointments and for 2002, it has become a borderline ugly car. The BMW is just overpriced. The Olds has a superior engine, is more comfortable inside, is just as reliable, and is just as attractive. But, its not a "Beemer". Is that worth 15 grand to you?
Beautiful Borealis
This is the highest value luxury car on the road. It is a thrill to drive for short utility trips, fun cruises, & road hauls. Comfort is terrific, especially for such a sporty handling machine. It tracks like a smart bomb -- even white out, ice blizzards, at night. I've never driven such a roadworthy machine. It's wonderful -- & I generally cannot tolerate GM vehicles! (P.S. Avoid the 3.5 model; it's underpowered; only buy the 4.0)
Great ride
Best driver's cockpit available. Fun ride, extraordinary comfort with sporty handling & great responsiveness. Outstanding drive train. Good build. Bottom line: I wish GM still made this car!
my aurora
i have driven this car from md to fla and it is the most comfortable and reliable car i haveever owned..i have had numerous cars but this is an automobile that is class. on the trips from md to fla i still get 23 to 24 mpg event tho i can drive up to 80-85 on long strtches of the trip..even at this speed you cannot imagine you're really going that fast the aurora just glides along...
Great luxury sports seday
Car has been In my family always. Now has 181,000 miles on it and it runs great. The body design fits right in with todays models. The 3.5 engine is one of the best GM has ever made. I still get 32-35 miles per gallon at 60 mph. I get 26 at 70. Car is comfy on longer trips. In todays world this car would sticker for well over$40,000. This is my every day driver and I am completely satisfied with it. I will never understand why GM discontinued Oldsmobile.
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Air pump/drive shaft problems
Air pump problems at 50,000 miles and again at 75,000. drive shaft replace around 30,000 and again around 35,000 2 electric motors on rear windows, which are rarely used front end problems around 50,000 GM has reimbursed me for some of the work, but air pump is acting up again at 80,000 poor design. I love the looks and the handling and it has so far it has not let me down on starting will I keep it? not sure at this time
Wind Noise
Let me get this part over first. If you want to have the sound of wind inside a vehicle (with all the windows up), then this is the car to buy. Take a look at the cheap, thin, narrow weather-stripping around the doors and the lack of insulation in the pillars surrounding the doors, and you can understand why this vehicle does such a poor job of keeping the wind noise quiet--especially at highway speeds above 55 mph.
Best car I ever had
I like this car a lot the style is great the interior is top notch. I think the best thing is I got mine with the v8 which is believe it or not is rather good on gas I average 23 mpg that is better than my Taurus when running only did 18 mpg now it does 0. I should have purchased this car along time ago. I am done with v6 motors I have had no luck with them .
A Good Ride
This vehicle Has two major design flaws that should not be replicated anywhere. There is Zero clearance between the front wheels and the frame of the car, and the battery is located under the back seat inside the passenger area.
Great Value - Great Car
My wife and I are very pleased with our new Aurora 3.5. The engine is probably the most powerful one we've owned; it put our former 1996 Riviera (3.8L V6) to shame. The handling is superb -- firm, taut, communicative, but never harsh. Even some of our "died-in-the- wool Ford" friends have commented how comfortable and quiet the car is.
Comfortable ride!
I love this vehicle, I got mine at a great deal and it has so much power behind it. Very smooth driving so it was great for my traveling for my work. But when you buy this vehicle make sure the transmission, torque converter had no problems or that it's been fully repaired. Didn't even take a year until I had to sell the car because the torque converter was shot- I was better off selling it because this can cost a few grand to repair. Even with that problem I still love the car, I'd get another one....and completely restore it..!
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a little disappointed
I fell in love with my car when my husband brought it home.We have had numerous problems since we have had the Aurora.Early in 2002, the wipers stopped working,weather stripping began leaking on driver's side and had to be replaced, the back panel seperating the trunk from the back seat will not stay attatched, the driver side window works "MOST" of the time, the entire steering-wheel column and surrounding had to be replaced, the two back red lights that come on in fog light mode had to be replaced as well as the front passenger side main light bulb. Thank God for extended warranties, but what happens when it runs out????
Aurora is traditional
Have driven my Aurora now for 18 months. Considering the price I could not be more pleased. It has been 100% reliable and very good on gas mileage, 24 mpg over all. In my eyes the styling will endure for some time. It feels solid and safe. Only wish GM could this more often and people give them a look!
An American Beauty
My wife and I drive 62 miles round trip every day. Our previous '97 Bonneville was ok, but this car pampers. We have the navigation radio which is really cool and helpful. Likewise personal calling and OnStar. There is a small amount of wind noise as others have pointed out, but it is not very noticeable and I wonder if those complaining don't need to have adjustments. (Or maybe the '02s are improved in that area.) Go for it.
Subtle Elegance
I have had the vehicle for just over a year now and it has performed perfectly from day one. I traded another 2001 GM vehicle for the Aurora because the Regal had a driver seat with zero comfort. The Aurora seat with its lumbar support has provided super comfort on my 60 mile drive to work. Also, who can complain of the 26 mpg hwy. fuel mileage that I am getting? I have grown to really look forward to every day when I can drive the car.
03 Olds aurora 4.0
Very solid and reliable car. Traded in a 2001 Chrysler 300M for my Aurora 4.0.
2nd. Aurora
Had an '01 Aurora V6 and recorded 60,000 miles in about 2 years Got about 30 MPG from NJ to FL. I liked the car so much that I traded it in on an '03 Aurora. Drove it from New Jersey to North Carolina on I95 and adveraged 28.5 MPG. A great cat for touring.
Love the Drive
I drive a lot of highway miles. This car has given me comfort and pride. I have had no problems in any type of weather that I have encurred while driving. I live in NorthEast Indiana and the drives to the New York, Chicago, Cincinatti, Detroit, and others have been relaxing without problems. The gas milage hasn't been bad at all either!
Worth owning!
Great value for the money and probably the most under rated vehicle in its class. Excellent build quality, relatively low sales adds to individuality of ownership. Could have created a little more performance for the V-8 given its design. Trying to find the way to afford another one or buy the wife another car so I can have it before she ruins it. Highly recommend trying one out if you're looking for a luxury/sport sedan. I think you'll be surprised. Had one minor problem that was fixed by the dealer first time. Great comfort.
Buy It!
This car is the best value in it's class. Don't be afraid of the fact that it's the last model year. GM will be around forever. Lose the thought of those foriegn cars and pocket the difference in price!
why is this going?
The car is great fun on the road. It has plenty of passing power and great acceleration. The seat are comfortable and the interior is well designed. I have not been driving very long (only 16), but when I am in the car on my way to school or out with friends, it is a great car, there is nothing "wrong" with it. If you need a big sedan, but want to fun car also, than this car deserves a test drive.
Aurora - Keep these around!
After a year in the 3.5 Aurora, It loks and feels brand new. I have had no problems of any type with this vehicle. It is quick off the line, and holds its own at highway speeds, never leaving you wanting for passing power. I hope that another line picks up this car when Olds tosses in the towel. It is the only thing worth salvaging in their line. I had an Intrigue and will never step down again from the quality of this car.
Good one
Too bad this line is discontinued. With a couple of minor tweeks, this could compete with any vehicle priced between $35 and $45K. Trunk needs some tlc. Upgrade finish in trunk. The paint job could be better. Other than that, the car is quick, quiet, and prestegious. Excellent ride, and very comfortable to drive.
Take a look elsewhere
Take a look at the door gaskets on the Oldsmobile Intrigue and then look at the gaskets on this vehicle and you will understand why the Aurora creates an excessive amount of wind noise when driving at speeds over 55mph. Not only are they thin, but there is only one, instead of being doubled, like they are on the Intrigue. Poor quality of workmanship was evident thourghout the exterior and intrerior of this vechile.
Olds Aurora
This car is no more than an average Detroit Midsize. It does not have the legroom for a 6'3" man nor the peerformance of a 3 Liter Import yet it touts a 4.0 liter V-8 engine that just sits there and makes a lot of noise. It does not make a lot of gas mileage either 25MPG is the best I have been able to get.
Aurora, has the Quality of a Rare Jewel!
This car is destined to one of the Great Classics to be..Not only because it is scheduled to termination by GM.It is a rare jewel in the growing field of personal Luxury Cars.Its distinct design makes it something you dont see..every few minutes on the freeway.Its personal creature comfort appointments,surpass that of most,much pricier imports and even Cadillacs
Pretty Good
Overall, I am very happy with the car. However, I would like more power and better build quality. A 5-speed would be nice too.
Going to Miss Olds
At age 37, this is my fourth Oldsmobile. There is nothing like the 4.0. It provides with power all the time, at any speed. The looks of the car are deceiving. I am always asked if is a Mercedes or Infiniti. It's a shame Olds is going away. This is a great car. Seats are big and roomy. Luxury features like real wood dash are hard to find in a car at this price. No car in this price range makes the noise it does when you step on it. I'd say, go get one, you an get a great deal on one. I do wish the fit was a little tighter. Squaks come out at the darndest times. I had that trouble with my Intrigue as well. So long OLDS, you will not be forgotten.
An Excellent Value!
The Aurora rides very quietly, is well appointed with all of the controls thoughtfully located within easy reach of the driver. Our V-6 engine is not as powerful as the larger V8 but is more than adequate for highway driving. We found the standard sound system to be the best we have ever experienced- perhaps better than a home stereo system! With Oldsmobile incentives and rebates this car was a steal compared to the Cadillac/Lexus/Lincolns in its sticker price class and market. With Caddy rumored to pick up the Aurora line when Oldsmobile folds, this car should more than hold its own in value, performance, and longevity. We love it!
farm
solid car, good milage and I used it for sales and for carrying materials for construction projects. the hole that goes through the back seat is invaluable for carrying trim 10' long.
Possessed by a Demon
Thank God for the state's lemon law. I've owned this car for over a year after trading in my Intrigue. I've had it in for warranty work 8 times with some problems cleared up, but with a persistent episodic glitch in the steering/suspension. The rack and pinion, steering column, and wheel bearings have been replaced on three seperate multi-day stays in the shop. What's with the ratchety feel in the steering? My dream car is a nightmare.
Aurora
Great car and value, especially compared to pricey foreign alternatives
Too bad GM didn't advertise this car
We purchased our '03 Aurora with all options - trading a '99. We wanted the last of a great line of automobiles from Olds. Overall we're pleased with this car. The fit and finish are excellent, save for a flimsy headliner. Only 2000 miles on the new car - too soon to know reliability. The car was delivered almost perfect, except a missing ashtray. Dealer ordered it a month ago - hasn't arrived. We feel this car is one of the better cars GM has produced. We wanted a "final 500" edition, but the badges looked cheap. Why GM never ran a TV campaign for this car is a mystery. The brand identity is ?. That's a real shame.
Supurb Driver Control
Transaxal Locking Assemly makes vehicle handle emergency stops very well. Vehicle now sells way under what is now reviewed and that is just one of many reasons why this is an excellant bargain. Grab one in south Texas for less then 26500.00
2001 Aurora
nimble handling for a large sedan attractive, inside and out comfortable seating reasonably good gas milage fun to drive 3.5 has decent power but not terrific power and pickup
Great Car Even Used!!!
This car gets lost of looks and is GREAT on gas for a V8.
Why Is This Car Discontinued?
The Aurora is the best car I've owned and unfortunately with the discontinuation of Oldsmobile, it will be my last Aurora. Too bad the phase- out of the Olds division was announced soon after the new Aurora's introduction. The styling is distinctive, and with few models on the road, several people wanted to know what kind of car I was driving. The car has been completely trouble-free, solidly built, has plenty of power, and is attractively styled insode and out.
Low Mileage Driver
My 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora has low mileage. It is driven mostly in the city and suburbs on fairly heavily traveled roads. It is the only car I have ever had that didn't require any repairs or recalls. It performs beautifully, has good pickup and gets fairly good mileage. The ride isn't the most comfortable but it is adequate. I am very satisfied with this car.
Sorry to see them go!
The first time I laid eyes on the Aurora was at the auto show. I was leaving the Lexus exhibit and thought it was one of their cars. The minute I saw it I knew it was the car for me. After checking the price I was sold. 12 weeks later I was driving my factory order 4.0. I love driving my car. It really handles the road well. There are two things that I am not happy with however, the cup holder and the CIS. The cupholder is set at an odd angle and the CIS warning system frequently goes off for no reason and must be reset at the dealership.
I Love My Aurora
The Aurora is a wonderful driving experience. Our Dealership is very customer oriented. My husband has purchased Olds for over fifty years. The only thing I would change (and this is true of other brands I have been in also) is the noise from the air conditioning and heater. Why can't this be remedied?
Hidden Gem
Looks, performance, handling, luxury -- this car has it all. It does everything well in a neat and tidy package. The engine is smooth and powerful and gets decent fuel economy. The suspension smooths out the bumps and takes corners with aggression. The exterior styling while not overt is modern and pleasing to the eyes. The interior is very comfortable and all of the controls fall easily at hand.
Sterling Silver Aurora V8
I was very surprised by the Oldsmobile Aurora. The design and technology are remarkable. The performance will catch you off guard.
Oldsmobile should have tried harder
The Aurora was built to save Olds. They should have done a better job because they had the right idea with this car, but the reliability just isn't there. I bought it in 2006 with only 27k miles. It looks spectacular, it drives smoothly and handles great. However, don't buy this car without a warranty. I love Olds, but I still can't get over the leaking radiator fluid, bad window motor, and faulty EBCM, which lights up your instrument panel like a Christmas tree with all the warnings. It will prevent you from passing a safety inspection. Oh and forget about getting any navigation CD updates. They stopped making them.