I got a 2001 Alero base model. The turn signals will only work sometimes, but most of the time they wont. The only way to get them to work when they are not is by pressing the 4 ways "hazard light" button on and off on and off till the turn signal goes on.... Any ideas?

Sounds like your multi function switch is bad.
Do a search for multi function switch (MFS) you'll find plenty of help as this is another typical problem.

Good Hunting

found that their might be a recall on this matter. MFS is that the whole "turn signal stick assembly" When I search for it at a auto store website the whole turn signal stick shows

There is no recall or GM TSB out on the multifunction switch (stalk) itself. It was on the 4 way hazard switch at the dashboard and GM sent a notification to many Alero owners.

But I agree with Xero sounds like a bad MFS.

so the recall wouldn't fix my problem i am having? If not and it is the mfs where can i get it besides the dealer, again is it the whole assembly....

I have an 01 Alero and I was having the same problem. Soon after I received the recall notice. I took it in and had it replaced and havent had the problem since. My car had the same symptoms of the turn signals only working sometimes and I usually hit the four ways to get it working again. It didn't cost me a thing. I would check into whether or not your car had the recall taken care of or not.

Eric

It wouldn't hurt to take it to a GM dealer since the hazard switch recall fix is free but there is no guarantee that will correct the issue. But if that doesn't do it as in many reported instances then some of us just remove the MFS since it is very expensive and simply clean it with electrical contact cleaner and then apply new dielectric silicone grease. See pic below.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/alero_mfs_clean.jpg

I have an 01 Alero and I was having the same problem. Soon after I received the recall notice. I took it in and had it replaced and havent had the problem since. My car had the same symptoms of the turn signals only working sometimes and I usually hit the four ways to get it working again. It didn't cost me a thing. I would check into whether or not your car had the recall taken care of or not.

Eric
I had the exact same problem, and the recall fixed it perfectly. Definitely check that out first, since the MFS is pretty expensive.