Loction of and troubleshoot fuel pump/filter

in tank part of the fuel pump assembly

The most likely causes on the Alero are either a clogged fuel filter (which should be replaced every 30,000 miles in order to avoid damage to the fuel pump), or a weak or bad fuel pump. I'd start with replacing the fuel pump since it's the cheapest fix, the part costs about $20 at the Auto Parts Store. Here's a link to the fuel filter location and replacement:

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Where_is_the_fuel_filter_located_and_how_do_you_replace_it_on_a_2001_Oldsmobile_Alero

The fuel pump replacement is more work and more money. The part costs between $100 and $150 to buy nif your a DIY, or about $650 for parts & labor at a repair shop. The fuel pump is located inside the gas tank, so the gas tank will need to be dropped if the pump is to be replaced.

i know this is a cavalier but would think it would be in a similar place follow this link
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier Fuel Filter Location

hi, normally the FUEL PUMP, FUEL FILTER , FUEL REGULATOR at the back under the car near the front of the FUEL TANK. the FUEL FILTER HAS A ARROW and must go FROM THE TANK TO THE ENGINE. if you put it the WRONG WAY AROUND the car will NOT RUN PROPERLY. THE FUEL REGULATOR HAS A SPRING LOADED VALVE AND RETURN PIPE to the tank. THE FUEL PUMP HAS A ARROW TOO. from the tank to the engine. gerry

Your vehicle is not equiped with a fuel filter. It has a fuel strainer mounted to the fuel pump module located in the tank. Unless the strainer is considered a suspect for low fuel pressure while the fuel pump is considered ok, there is no need to replace it.

yes it is, the best way is to jack up rear of car, and support it with jack stands, or a car ramp. then you can remove fuel filter safely.

A 2001 Mazda Protege (actually, all models from 1999-2003 including the DX, LX, ES, Mazdaspeed, and Protege 5) does not have an inline fuel filter. The only fuel filter it has is a "strainer" or a "screen", which looks like a nylon mesh "sock". This strainer is connected to the fuel pump, located in the gas tank. Although this fuel strainer does not require periodic replacement, it is recommended that it be changed if you are replacing the fuel pump.

The fuel pump is located in the fuel tank while the filter is located in the hood close to the panel.

The fuel filter is located under the rear seat in a compartment above the fuel tank. Also, a filter sock at the base of the fuel pump located 
in the fuel tank.

On 2001 models the fuel filter is part of the fuel pump. To replace the fuel filter, disconnect the negative battery cable, remove the back seat and take fuel pump cover off to get to the fuel pump.Then you have to 1) disconnect the electrical connector from fuel pump/fuel sending unit, 2) disconnect the high pressure hose and the fuel return hose from the fuel pump and 3) remove the fuel pump mounting flange screws. You can then lift the fuel pump and replace the filter. 
Good luck and hope this helps

Under vehicle, center, below seating area, mounted on top of fuel tank, in fuel pump module