Common Saturn Vue Failures: Problems, Solutions and More

The Saturn Vue is a pretty reliable SUV . It has received a 4.2 out of 5.0 reliability rating, which is based on reviews and ratings provided by other Vue owners. It has also been shared that the Saturn Vue has a basic but enjoyable driving experience.

According to reports, this SUV can easily go over 100,000 miles without problems or major repairs. Some owners have reported that it can last over 250,000 miles as long as it is properly maintained and serviced.

Main common failures of the Saturn Vue

The Saturn Vue comes with its fair share of problems depending on the model year. Here are the most common Saturn Vue faults that you can find on different models:

1- Engine light illuminated due to a faulty gas cap

One of the most commonly reported problems for the 2002-2009 Saturn Vue is a bad gas cap, which can come loose and cause the check engine light to come on. Many owners have shared that the gas cap always comes off and doesn’t seal properly even when they put it back on.

 Some have shared that their check engine lights stay on despite squeezing their gas caps. This problem can start to occur when the SUV reaches 160,000 miles .

Some have reported that they were able to resolve the issue by getting replacement gas caps. However, the check engine light can be linked to other component issues, so don’t hesitate to see your mechanic for a complete inspection.

2- Air conditioning malfunction

Climate problems on the 2002-2009 Saturn Vue often stem from incorrect temperature gauge readings, which can cause the A/C to malfunction. Some owners have shared that the Vue tends to generate an ” A/C off for engine protection ” warning on the instrument cluster display.

This warning may be accompanied by cold temperature readings and an illuminated check engine light. This can happen because the power control module has detected that the engine is not hot enough to run properly.

This may reportedly be related to a worn or faulty thermostat that is constantly open, preventing the engine from warming up to optimum temperature. Replacing the faulty thermostat can help solve this problem.

3- Transmission problems

Transmission failures in the 2008 Saturn Vue range from erratic shifting to complete transmission failure. Some owners have shared that their transmissions stutter whenever they try to accelerate.

These problems can reportedly be accompanied by an illuminated check engine light or a broken wave plate . Some have reported taking their SUVs to a mechanic for a look, but they couldn’t find anything wrong.

Some owners have decided to rebuild or replace their transmissions. They have expressed disappointment that their vehicles were still relatively new when the problems began to arise.

Getting all the necessary repairs to resolve these issues, such as a transmission rebuild or replacement, can be costly. The average estimated cost can range from $2,500 to over $3,000. If you notice signs of transmission problems, have your Vue serviced as soon as possible to avoid expensive repair costs.

4- Leaks in the engine valve cover gasket

One of the most reported problems with the 2006 Saturn Vue is its bad engine valve cover gasket, which tends to develop oil leaks. This problem is also common on 2002-2003, 2005 and 2008 Saturn Vues.

According to reports, oil leaks usually start when the SUV reaches around 132,000 miles. Some owners have shared that they discovered oil leaks due to excessive smoke and burning odors coming from the exhaust.

Some have reported going to their dealerships to have their valve cover gaskets replaced. However, the leaks continued to occur even after they fixed their vehicles.

They have shared that oil leaks can be caused by a damaged oil filter housing or other failing components . If you’re experiencing frequent oil leaks with your Saturn Vue, you’re definitely not alone. It is best to have your SUV checked for an accurate diagnosis.

5- Defective ignition

The 2002-2004 Saturn Vue is known to have a faulty ignition, which makes the key removable even though it is in the ” on ” position. This defect increases the chances of your SUV rolling and crashing . This led General Motors LLC (GM) to recall more than 200,000 affected Vues in 2014.

Owners with affected vehicles are advised to always put their SUVs in Park (for automatics) or Reverse (for manuals) before leaving the driver’s seat. They are also advised to take their Vues to their dealerships as soon as possible to have the ignition cylinders and keys inspected. If found to be defective, they will be replaced free of charge.

6- Engine failures

2003 Saturn Vue misfire problems are common and can be related to a number of different complications. SUV misfiring can be accompanied by other problems, such as a rough idle or an illuminated malfunction indicator light.

Multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), including NHTSA TSB #10176326, #10113418, #10114831, and #10144451, have been published to help manage or repair engine misfires.

Some of them were related to engine contaminants, cylinder damage, or other component issues. If you are experiencing engine failure on your Saturn Vue, see a mechanic as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and to prevent further engine damage.

To end

It’s a good idea to do some research on the Saturn Vue model year you’re interested in and its potential issues before you buy. Being aware of common Saturn Vue failures can help you manage failures as they occur. Just be sure to clear any important details with the seller before making any payments for the Vue.