10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
2 / 5
Injuries / Deaths:
2 / 0
Average Mileage:
116,323 miles

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« Read the previous 20 complaints

problem #21

May 102010

Vue

  • 22,000 miles
Alarm lights such as brakes, ABS, service, & service engine soon continues to be lit once the car is started. The green light indicator that is supposedly constant is now intermittently flashing. The odometer went back to practically zero. The gas tank indicator is erratic, now it's almost full while a few weeks back, it's on empty.

- Battle Creek, MI, USA

problem #20

Jun 222010

Vue 4-cyl

  • 145,000 miles
We were driving to work in our 2003 Saturn Vue 5 speed, going 60 mph on the freeway when all of a sudden the RPM's started to go up and down when we let off the gas and would stall when we would shift. We figured it out pretty fast and looked for an on ramp while we tried to "pigeon" foot the gas and brake to prevent a stall in the middle of the freeway, then power steering went out and the dashboard lost power, we knew that something was very very wrong and that if we didn't' get off the freeway, we could be in serious trouble if the engine lost power. We spotted an off ramp ahead and with no power steering and no dashboard lights we crossed 3 lanes of traffic, just as we hit the off ramp the car started to sputter (RPM's going up and down) even with our foot on the gas, we lost all power and the engine quit in the middle of an intersection and almost got hit by a truck coming down the hill. Luckily he swerved and missed another car coming the opposite direction. We pushed the car to an incline and rolled the car into a park and ride where my husband tried to figure out what was wrong. He figured it was the alternator so we had a friend pick one up for us and meet as the park and ride. He replaced the alternator and as usual for jump starting a car, we turned off all electrical draws (radio, A/C, fan ect.) the car started up, the RPM's fluctuated briefly, then it was ok. 2 weeks later the exact same thing happened on a highway going 50 mph, luckily we were able to pull over and try to fix it again. Same thing, turned off all electrical, jumped the car and started right up. 3 weeks later the RPM's started fluctuating and we figured out we needed to pigeon the gas and brake so it wouldn't stall and limped it home. Saturn says it's the BCM computer and it's a "common" problem. We now have to pay $700 hundred dollars and find a way to get the Saturn to the dealership without wrecking.

- Buckley, WA, USA

problem #19

Jan 022010

Vue

  • 130,000 miles
2003 Saturn Vue. Computer failure. Internet research done by me show multitudes of complaints about computers failing resulting in loss of power steering and dash components. Door lock failure and shift lever locking up.

- West Plains, MO, USA

problem #18

Jun 252009

Vue

  • 104,000 miles
Major transmission problems as well as ignition problems. Recently have smoke coming out of my steering wheel when car is started.

- New Berlin , WI, USA

problem #17

Jun 172009

Vue 4-cyl

  • Manual transmission
  • 80,100 miles
The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Vue. While driving various speeds, all of the instrument panel gauges and daytime running lamps fail; however, the engine continues to operate. The vehicle was taken to a local repair shop and the technician stated that the master control panel was failing. The vehicle is in the process of being repaired; however, the part is currently on backorder with the manufacturer. The manufacturer will be notified. The vehicle is currently not being driven. The failure and current mileages were 80,100. Updated 08/27/09 updated 08/31/09.

- South Attleboro, MA, USA

problem #16

Jun 152009

Vue 6-cyl

  • 170,050 miles
My service engine light was flashing today and about an hour later I started to loose power and when I pressed the gas I heard a loud noise. After doing research only I discovered there is a recall for the electrical system ignition: Module on the 2003 Saturn Vue AWD 6cycl.

- Columbia, TN, USA

problem #15

Jun 162008

Vue

  • 109,000 miles
The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Vue. While driving approximately 25 mph, the contact heard a loud beeping noise and the security warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle lost total electrical power. She contacted a professional mechanic and was informed that the BCM was the cause of the failure. Currently, all the instrument panel gauges are inoperative. She is in the process of having the vehicle inspected. The contact filed a complaint with the manufacturer. The failure and current mileages were 109,000.

- Laurel, MD, USA

problem #14

May 272008

Vue

  • 84,000 miles
The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Vue. The contact attempted to start the vehicle and the windshield wipers activated automatically. The interior dome light flashed intermittently, and the vehicle shut completely off and would not restart. The dealer and manufacturer stated that the parts were unavailable for the repair. They placed her name on a waiting list and informed her that she will be notified when the parts arrived. The VIN was unknown. The failure and current mileages were 84,000.

- Ruidoso, NM, USA

problem #13

May 142008

Vue 4-cyl

  • 51,364 miles
On our 2003 Saturn Vue the locks kept unlocking and locking at random (whether the car was running or not), then it did not respond to the keyless entry. The horn kept going off randomly and could not be stopped. On 05/14/08 we took the vehicle in for diagnostics. We were told the BCM (body control module) needed to be replaced. We were told that a bad BCM could affect other components of the car. I feel that this could be dangerous especially while driving on the highway and the car suddenly stops. I looked the BCM for Saturn cars on the internet and there seemed to be several complaints about this being a recurring problem for Saturn. I don't understand why this part has not been recalled.

- Wichita, KS, USA

problem #12

May 282007

Vue 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 27,000 miles
The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Vue. While driving 35 mph, the power steering failed and the check engine light illuminated. The vehicle can be driven, but has not been diagnosed by the dealer. The contact stated the gauges did not function properly. The purchase date and correct VIN were unknown. The current and failure mileages were 27,000. Updated 02/01/08. The consumer stated A/C, horn, windshield wipers, internal lights, and odometer all were inoperable. The consumer stated austin Saturn tried to tighten the fuse block bolts, but it was actually worse afterwards. They replaced the BCM for half price. Updated 02/01/08

- Denton, TX, USA

problem #11

Apr 152006

Vue 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 52,600 miles
Computer failed on 2003 Saturn Vue (4-cyl vti version) causing gauges and system lights to blink and fluctuate uncontrollably. Additionally, door locks were turned on and off repeatedly. I had difficulty exiting the vehicle once at the dealership because of the locks. Incident occurred while driving in on highway at 58 mph. Mileage of vehicle is 52,600. Dealership replaced computer -- problem was not under warranty.

- Plymouth, MN, USA

problem #10

Oct 252003

Vue 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 16,358 miles
Consumer states: Took in vehicle on 5 separate times for transmission, whining noise was heard, almost like the engine was overheating. Was on highway, and no matter how much gas consumer gave it vehicle wouldn't move. When giving it more gas the engine would rev but still wouldn't go. Before problems with transmission, at a separate time, something with the computer went wrong. It completely shut down. Such as gas gauge showed empty tank and speedometer went to zero. When at a stop idle seems to drop and when accelerating from stop, vehicle hestiates and lurches. Transaxle speed sensor replaced. Transmission control module reprogramed due to whining noise. Hood won't open. Hood cable readjusted. Driver and passenger washer nozzle missing and replaced. Steering wheel making noise. Shaft boot greased. Service engine soon (ses) light on. Oxygen sensor was contaminated and replaced.

- Chicago, IL, USA

problem #9

Jan 252005

Vue

  • Automatic transmission
  • miles
I have 2 Saturn, a 2001 SC2 and a 2003 Vue. A few months ago, the battery on the SC2 went dead -- this was the 2nd battery since the vehicle was newly purchased. So now the SC2 is on its 3rd battery since taken off the Saturn showroom. The Vue was also purchased new and today the entire electrical system was dead. This vehicle is already on its 2nd battery so (it appears) that will need replacement as well. There appears to be a major electrical fault with Saturn vehicles that they refuse to admit. Otherwise, why would 2 Saturn (different models) go through a total of 5 (60-month) batteries in less than 5 years. I respectfully request that this company be investigated regarding this problem to determine why these problems exist. In the case of my SC2, Saturn (initially) refused to pay for the replacement stating that it was not covered under their extended warranty. It was only after I told them that had I purchased directly from ac delco the warranty would be honored and that they -- in their contract with delco -- refused the warranty services delco offered. They apparently knew of the electrical problems with their vehicles and wanted to fleece customers rather than pay delco extra for the warranty agreements.

- San Antonio, TX, USA

problem #8

Aug 142004

Vue

  • Automatic transmission
  • 11,000 miles
Turn signal failed. The consumer replaced the bulbs but within a week they burned out again. The consumer then complained to the delaer who replaced the resistor and bulbs.

- Wayne, NJ, USA

problem #7

May 032004

Vue 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 18,900 miles
First my engine blew because Saturn did not put oil back into my Vue during a routine oil change next my control computer in the Vue had to be replaced because it did not work. Now my transmission cover needs replaced. I also hear about potential problems with the rear end suspension now. I bought a new Vue for its reliability and it is not reliable all on Saturn fault.

- Clarksville, TN, USA

problem #6

Apr 162004

Vue 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 1,800 miles
I have had my 2003 Vue for about 1 1/2 years. In that time I have had an unexplainable rattle in the head liner, design flaw in the sunroof/moonroof, gas guage sensor replaced, thermostat replaced, slipping transmission, "flame outs" when trying to start the engine resulting in flooding, "jumping" to the right at acceleration from a stop, heat blowing out of the vents during the summer when the fan is shut off and temp is on cold, and this week a dazzling display of indicator lights and guages and dash lights randomly turning on and off with the eventual loss of power steering. And I thought my transmission issues with my Tahoe were bad? we purchased the Vue for our daughter to drive when she turns 16. I feel that this car will not be safe for her to drive. I am very concerned with stories I am hearing about the airbags failing, ABS failing, steering failing. This could be fatal for an inexperienced driver.

- Lincoln, NE, USA

problem #5

Mar 082004

Vue 4-cyl

  • Manual transmission
  • 42,000 miles
Air conditioner compressor failed without warning at 42,000 miles.

- Alvin, TX, USA

problem #4

Jul 142003

Vue 4-cyl

  • Manual transmission
  • 7,016 miles
I have taken my 2003 Saturn Vue in 8 times for high idle (1000 RPM) in neutral, ses light on, and engine cooling fan going on. The dealer stopped attempting to fix the problem on visit 6 (when they let my car sit at the dealership for 13 days with 1 diagnosis attempt). Another dealer has looked at the car for the last two visits. Saturn says they cannot find anything wrong. Yet I have found a Saturn service bulletin on the NHTSA website. The high idle is a safety issue because it affects my shifting. An independent ase certified mechanic has stated that the high idle and engine fan running will eventually damage the fan, engine mounts and catalytic converter. Of course, my gas mileage is compromised as well as my safety. The service bulletin pertains to the ses light, code P0171 fuel trim system lean.

- Lake Forest, CA, USA

problem #3

Mar 012003

Vue 6-cyl

  • 5,257 miles
While driving the vehicles check engine light illuminated and then the vehicle lost all power. The vehicle was taken to the dealer on two occasions but those repairs did not correct the problem. It wasn't until the third attempt the the dealer changed the electrical harness. The consumer is not satisfied with the performance of this vehicle or the Saturn dealer.

- North Branford, CT, USA

problem #2

Jun 132003

Vue 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 8,000 miles
There is an electrical issue in the lighting system on this car. When the headlights are turned on (not the daytime running lights) the turn signal/headlight control stalk will get hot to the touch in about 20 minutes. I contacted Saturn via email and they told me to take it to my dealer. That's all well and good but Saturn of rochester (New York) is a joke.

- Penfield, NY, USA

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