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Saturn is a popular car in a low-key sort of way and has a reputation for delivering fairly good value for the money. However, before you rush right out to buy one, be aware that it is also prone to some very expensive, annoying and even dangerous shortcomings, painfully enumerated by our long-suffering readers.
Tenesha of Frederick MD (07/01/08)
I have a 2006 Saturn Ion 3 and I have been having the worst experience with it. About 6 months ago while driving on the highway my drivers side window just collapsed into the door of the car. When I took it in to the dealership, they told me the bolts were not screwed in tight enough at the wharehouse. Now here it is 6 months later and my key got stuff in the ignition with the engine still on. I had to pop the hood of the car and pull out fuses to both the ignition to cut the car off and the battery to turn the lights off. I had to leave my car with the key still left in it, sitting in the parking lot all night long. The next day I took it to the dealership again for repair where they charged me $500 to repair the faulty ignition chamber and the ignition house. Something really needs to be done about this problem.
John of Beebe AR (06/30/08)
I was asked by Debbie to come in on Saturday morning, June 28th to see what I qualified for. I came in and met her and she started to run my credit and see who I would get approved by for a car loan. She said that the best she could do was through GMAC and that the lowest she could go on a payment would be $435 - $450. She had someone appraise my 2005 Saturn L300 Sedan and he said $8000 as a trade in. I told Debbie that I was trying to stay below $400 for a payment and she said this was the best she could do. She stated that this is what she does and this is her livelihood. I understand all that and I do know how important it is for a dealership to sale cars and make money. I told her that I would continue to search if she couldn't do any better then that. She came across as not really willing to help out and I totally understand how sales works, because I was a recruiter for 8 years in the military. I later called from another dealership when I was in the parking lot and asked for Debbie, but the receptionist said she was busy and sent me to her voice mail. I continued to leave my voice mail asking her politely to call my cell phone number, because I would like to know what my credit score was since she ran it through. She never returned my phone call and when I called back I was told again that she was busy. I seriously understand the importance of Outstanding Customer Service, but I was not given that by Debbie nor Saturn, the dealership for whom she works for. I feel sorry for the other customers that get treated as such by this finance manager and by Saturn if the other salesman are like this, if so bad for them. I know of another Saturn store manager in Northwest Arkansas and he nor his employees treat their customers this way, many thanks to them for helping me out in the past.
Rachael of Panhandle TX (06/24/08)
I purchased a new Saturn Sky from this company in 2006, at the same time I purchased a car cover, in august of 2007 I recieved notification from saturn stating that the car cover was under recall due to a problem with it transferring black stains onto the car's paint. I called saturn of amarillo last october about exchanging the cover, and was told that they would have to order one, and that I needed to take in the old cover and the letter, I was not able to do so at that time, I don't live in amarillo, and I thought I would do this next time I got the car serviced. In spring of 2008 my car was recalled due to a defect in the rear axle, I needed to get a broken cup holder fixed and a red transfer spot taken off of the door - I have an extended warranty that covers this. I scheduled the services for friday june 6th. At the time of scheduling I asked if I needed to bring in the recall letters for the car's axle and car cover and was told by Lloyd the Service supervisor that no, they could look this up online. (I wanted all this done at once so that I could decrease the amount traveling to and from amarillo). I took the car in on Thursday afternoon and arranged to pick it up on saturday, the only times I could get a ride home. When I showed up on saturday, the red spot had not been removed from the door and the car cover was still in the trunk - not exchanged. not to mention that it had not been detailed which was part of the paint warrenty I had that it would be detailed yearly when it was serviced. The manager came out, looked at the car and appologized for the lack of service and told me he would take care of it monday. On monday the 9th I recieved a call from Lloyd, apologizing and stating he would take care of it by that afternoon. When I came back to amarillo Monday sfternoon, Lloyd told me he cannot find the recall notice for the cover. I am understandibly annoyed at this time, and tell him to bring me the car. He says I need to bring him the letter, and I told him, I didn't know if I still had it, got my car and left. I sent an email to saturn customer service when I got home. I also found the letter and faxed it over to Lloyd, who told my husband he would order a new one. Saturn Customer service called me and I opened a complaint case with them #71-636891288, Yesterday my husband called saturn of amarillo and was put through to parts to find out about this cover, He was put through to an answering machine, and never recieved a call back, today he has called twice, one time talking to Lloyd, who also put him through to the answering machine for the parts department, at 0900 and 1000 this am. At 3pm I called saturn and talked to Lloyd, he said he would go to the parts department and find out about the cover. He then asked to put me on hold while the parts department picked up the line, He then put me through to the parts department answering machine, when I called back to talk to him, he wouldn't take my call. I then called and left a message with Dean Seether the General Manager, he also has not returned my call. This is an ongoing service problem I have had since I purchased this vehicle in 2006, Their post service care is terrible, I dread having to take the car in for ANY reason, and I feel as though they probably do this deliberatly to me now, because I DO complain about the horrible service I've recieved. The reason I'm complaining to the BBB is I cannot get anyone from Saturn to actually help me. All I want to do is exchange this car cover so that I can use it again. I talked to the customer service dept again today. he indicated that he would try to get saturn of amarillo to co-operate with the exchange, I feel as though I'm banging my head against a wall and just want this finished with.
Tanya of San Luis Obispo CA (06/22/08)
2006 Saturn Ion ignition. Sadly, I have discovered many other Saturn owners with a similar story about the car's ignition. Basically, the key stuck in the ignition and the car could not be turned off. Needless to say, I am upset about this situation as it will cost me money I don't have, take up time I don't have, add to my stress level and open my eyes to discover that Saturn jeopardized my safety with poor quality parts/workmanship/design.
Elizabeth of Baton Rouge LA (06/21/08)
Would you know how I would find information regarding fatal accidents that involved Saturn Vehicles? I would like to be able to compile this information nationwide. Thanks
My son as well as 5 - 6 other individuals were killed while driving Saturn vehicles. All of the accidents happened in the last 5 years and within less than a 50 mile radius of my home in Baton Rouge.
Amber of North Branch MI (06/21/08)
2006 Saturn Ion has continous intermittent starting problems when it is cold outside. I am in a situation now where my car will not stay started. I have called saturn to complain about this problem and have read many reviews online about car owners having the same problems with the Saturn Ion
Tiana of Saint John OTHER (06/20/08)
Bought a 2003 Saturn ion in november 2007. Had 55,000 km's and I paid 12,000 plus 2000 for warranty. The very next day I was driving the car the something in the wheel started knocking when I turned...took it to the dealer ...no there was nothing wrong...sent me home. Wheel was still knocking...since everything was free and taken care of in the first 30 days I had to get this fixed. Called again, asked for a different mechanic to take a look...he said wheel bushings were bad so he replaced them. Still knocking when I turn has never stopped. My automatic transmission acts like a standard...downshifts very hard...when going forward the car slips into neutral revvs quite high then lurches back into gear. Took it into mechanic...no no problem...then a wheel barring went....2 weeks later it went again this is all within 30 days. I bought the car though kia dealership and after the 30 days were up and the issue with the transmission still isn't fixed but I cant afford to keep paying mechanics to tell me there is nothing wrong. I have had nothing but problems with my saturn since I got it I would love to turn back time and chosen something better instead. They definatly charged me too much for the car...has nothing but problems...dealership employess dont want to help with the problems but they are there in a second for a new purchaser. I am full of regret for buying that saturn Im a 20 yr old full time student and mother of 2 and the constant repair that vehicle needs is just a big waste of my money. There is so many complaints about saturn! Too bad we all couldnt get our money back and tell them to take their cars back!
Helen of Piscataway NJ (06/18/08)
We purchased our Saturn Relay in November of 2005. Since we've owned the vehicle, it has practically been rebuilt. They have replaced things as major as the engine (at approx 26,000 miles) to defective tires, to the radio, and I just dropped it off again today for them to fix the DVD player, and both sliding doors. I have spent more time in a rental vehicle than I have in the vehicle for which I am making monthly payments. I have written letters, talked to people in the service department even called Saturns Customer Care center all to no avail. Now that the Dealers Warranty has expired and the vehicle is now under the extended warranty, Saturn Service is now willing to replace anything I ask them too because they can now collect a $100.00 deductible. I had been complaining for about the last six months about the door chime not working properly. When the chime does not sound on initial start up, none of the other electronics would work (no On-Star, no radio, no DVD, no lights, etc) I complained numerous times and Service claimed that they could find nothing wrong. Now that they can collect $100 deductible, they've decided that replacing the audio system should fix the problem. Well they did that and now I still have the same issue and the DVD player is not working.
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Randy of Knox. TN (06/17/08)
me and my wife purchased a 2008 vue from saturn knox. may 3 they told us then it had a v6 in it. the paper work said v6 the only papers at the time we try it out was in the cove dep. also they told us the vue got 25--31 hwy and it dosn't it gets 19--24hwy. on may 21 2008 the service tech told us it had a 4cycler in it we not a v6 that was on the paper work in the cove dep. the only thing we have that says it has a v6. so we talk to the manAger twice to make this right and to give us what we payed for a 2008 vue v6 all he would tell me was we got a good deal and was not going to take it back or give us a vue with a V6 IN IT the last thing he told me was you got a good deal you just did not get the deal you thout .
Jessica of Lancaster PA (06/16/08)
On Saturday June 14th, 2008 at about 10:40pm I was pulling into a parking space in the Econo Lodge lot. I put the gear in park and pulled up the emergency break. I reached for my key and couldn't move the key forward to take the key out of the ignition. My key was stuck in the ignition and I could not shut my car off. My boyfriend was with me and we both looked at eachother in awe. We never heard of anything like it... 'A CAR BEING STUCK ON!?! We called some people for ideas. Tried everything from checking the gear was securely on park to jiggling the wheel at the same time jiggling the key. NOTHING WORKED! We drove around and tried to park again. SAME THING! So, we drove home and looked at things more closely with a flash light and glanced under the hood as well. One hour goes by. I call Saturn's Roadside Assistance. After finally getting through to a line the operator says, Due to techinical difficulties we are unable to answer the phone at this time. Now what kind of Roadside Assistance is that??? We had to do something. No mechanics were open that late nor the next day so we tried disconnecting the battery. NOTHING! Apparently my autonater works GREAT! So, we searched under the hood and loosened a set of wires. Finally, the engine shuts off. Mind you, it's two hours later. Now, my car is sitting in front of my boyfriends house with my car keys stuck in the ignition. So, I will be going to the Saturn Dealership in my area, if I can get my car back on, and they will listen to what I have to say and will demand cost free repair as well a free rental. If they do not follow my demands they will hear from me in small claims court. Mark my words! I refuse to pay for service to a car that the damages are clearly not my fault. Apparently this had happened frequently with Saturn's as you see here. Numerous complaints about the same thing means there is something wrong with the car. I plan not to loose any money for this. I suggest others do the same as action equals action. SATURN NEEDS TO RECALL!!!
Leonie of Garson, Canada (06/11/08)
since we bought our saturn brand new in 2003 we have had nothing but problems each time bringing the car back for whatever reason there is a arm lenght of service repairs done that you can obtain if needed , i feel like we got the lemon of the line and payiny for it ever since ... now there is a problem in the steering column which we have to repair before we leave on our 2000klm trip assuring us it would be done by the time we leave now they call us saying the part won,t be in till next week some time when our departure was set for june 15th I t seems like once you buy a car from saturn thats it with the head guy !!!! i believe this car should of been sent back an a new one issued or equal value one ... we,ve owned a saturn since day one we are a saturn family but with the trouble were having convince me to buy another !!!
Sharon of Trenton NJ (06/11/08)
Owning my 2007 Saturn ION for less than 2 years and only having 16,400 miles on the car - the horror story begins. I leave work on a Friday afternoon, stop at an appointment and cannot SHUT-OFF my car!!!!!! I try everything, switching gears, driving around the parking lot and NO LUCK..... So I call the dealership and tell them I am on my way. Honestly, they could not have been nicer.... Looked at my car promptly and told me they are arranging for me to have a rental car because this is a major repair........Remember this now late Friday afternoon - thankfully I did not have any real important weekend plans.....So I leave in the rental car and get a telephone call early on Saturday morning that my car is ready.... I go to pick up my car and was not charged for any of the repairs, because I was still under warranty....... But this whole experience has me freaked out, the what-ifs are constantly going thru my mind - what-if I was leaving for vacation and drove my car to the airport and could not shut it off - what-if it was late and I could not shut it off -(with no dealership opened) The list is endless...Honestly, up until this happened I liked the car and did not have any problems. But I no longer feel comfortable driving this car and every time I get in it I have a small knot in my stomach is it going to shut-off, once I arrive at my destination............I truly feel like shopping for another car and this time it will not be an American make car.... I am soooooo disappointed with Saturn for not recalling this entire MESS - I do have to say the dealership could not have been nicer, but after reading horror story after horror story about this ignition nightmare - something has to be done and QUICKLY.........
Don of Gorham ME (06/07/08)
My girlfriend purchased a low mileage 2002 Saturn L-series from a Saturn dealership in 2004. Shortly after she bought the car she noticed the car was skipping, and just didn't seem like it was running correctly. She brought the car in to the Saturn dealer, but they assured her that there were no problems, and sent her on her way. She continued to experience the problems, and eventually brought the car back in to the dealer to have them find out whatever was wrong. They found an issue with a manifold gasket (fuel was leaking, and air was getting sucked in), and made the repair; however, since they would not address the problem earlier, her warranty was now up, and it was a $400 out of pocket expense for her. For a short while, she did not have any issues with the car, but only a few months later, she was back into the dealership with the same problem. Again, they made the same repair, as it was apparently not fixed right the first time, and then tried to charge her another $400! She argued with them that she was just in to get the same issue fixed, but she still ended up shelling out another $200 as they refused to acknowledge any fault in the matter. Now, the car has 96,000 miles on it, and is starting to have some serious transmission issues (4T40-E automatic). When shifting into reverse, there is hesitation, and then the transmission bangs into gear. The same thing happens when upshifting into third gear, upshifting into overdrive, and anytime the transmission kicks down to gain acceleration. And every now and then the car will not even shift into third gear. As a mechanic and antique restoration tech, I recognized this as a valve body problem, but because the car has a computer, and other various electric/electronic sensors, I thought it would be best to have the car scanned for diagnostic codes first. She and I took the car to AAMCO, and after scanning and test driving it they told us they would need at least another three hours to diagnose the problem. They gave us the diagnostic codes that came up, but could not even pinpoint whether it was an electric issue or an internal mechanical issue. Both of the techs on duty said that this was overall a good transmission, which is contrary to everything else I've heard when researching this problem. They also stated they thought it was odd that the check engine light was not on during all of these issues. I physically checked the external wiring by looking for anything loose, corroded, etc, and also checked the wires for power, and found nothing wrong with the electric on the outside. I also spoke with a friend who is a Saturn enthusiast (I've yet to figure out why), and said that these transmissions have a lot of problems with the valve bodies. He stated that he has had the same problem in a couple of his Saturns, and has cured the problem by changing the valve body. I also spoke with another mechanic who had knowledge on the matter, and they also agreed there are issues with the valve bodies in these cars/transmissions. I figured I would take one last step before I started making repairs, and that was to visit the Saturn dealership where she purchased the car to begin with. As a side note, my girlfriend is so upset with the Westbrook, Maine Saturn dealership due to the personal experiences she has had with them, she would not even accompany me when I went there. She claimed that they were not only incompetent when they made the repairs, but that they were very condecsending towards her, and she also believed that they strung her along until her warranty ran out before admitting there was anything wrong with the car. So, I went to the Saturn dealership and spoke with who I assumed was the head technician on duty. I explained to him in detail the transmission issues she was having, and showed him the diagnostic codes that came up during the AAMCO scan. I asked him if there were any common problems with these transmissions (already having quite a 'bit of background information on them), and he claimed that he wasn't aware of any, and claimed that they were a great tranmission. I then told him about the multiple consumer reports I had read that said otherwise, and claimed that it was news to him. He said that if we wanted to bring the car in, they'd be willing to dig into it to find the problem. I explained to him that the problem was so bad that it was obviously causing damage to the transmission just to drive it, and that I did not think it was a good idea for her to bring it in under it's own power. I also asked him if I could get a list of recalls for that year and model Saturn, and it was then that he seemed to get irritated by my presence there. Again he said we should bring the car in for them to look at, and so he could get the proper information to give me a recall sheet. He really wasn't much help at all, and seemed more intent on making more money for Saturn, than actually helping out a customer. After dealing with his condescending attitude, and overall being very unimpressed at the lack of help or information he was willing to give (and after reading some of these consumer reports), I am convinced that Saturn builds sub-par automobiles, avoids issues until your warranty is up, and then denies any fault to manufacturing deficiencies. This is a common and very serious issue that should have been addressed by Saturn Corp. as a RECALL, but I am sure that due to the monetary loss they would experience, they would never make good on the promise of building a good car. To any Saturn owner, or anyone considering buying a Saturn, I say to you what my girlfriend and I now say whenever we see a Saturn....GET RID OF IT, IT'S GOING TO DIE!!!
Mimi of Las Vegas NV (06/04/08)
Wow, where do I begin..will the cost to fix my 1999 saturn sl2 with only 65,000 miles is now at $5900. It all started with the car stalling. Our mechanic first thought it was the coils $300, when that was repaired, the car's computer system malfunctioned $1800, then it was the ac compressor and the coolant fan $1500, and now the timing chain and the cracked valve. My mechanic recommended to have the engine replaced ($1900 at a large discount) instead of having to deal with another problem. This doesn't even include the $400 i paid 2 weeks before this crap. Here i thought i was being wise to fix the problem so that we wouldnt have to buy a new car. But every time my mechanic fixed one problem, another breakdown would happen. SATURN SUCKS!!!
C of Bedford IN (06/03/08)
My 2001 Saturn SL2 developed the 'buck' this past week while on my way to get the oil changed. I've changed the fluids in a timely fashion and maintained it very well for the past 9 months I've had it. I now see what I'm enduring is symptomatic of the make and model. Difference is, I went to the 'Defects and Recalls' page of the National Highway and Transportation page maintained by the Feds to complain about it. I found four other people who had complained. Although no fatalities have been reported, and this is more of a mechanical failure than a safety issue, I'm hoping Saturn gets its hand slapped to the point that we get the recall we deserve. Lord knows, in this seemingly mortally wounded economy, especially in the auto-manufacturer realm of industry, bad press means a certain loss being posted at the end of the quarter. So lets hope they make nice and get it right. Here's to dreaming big. Go here to post your problem to the Feds: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/index.cfm#vehicles
Andrea of Oshawa, Canada (06/03/08)
I leased a 2005 Saturn Vue because I am a single mom with two teenage daughters. I have been on a disability for just over a year. When I decided to lease the vehcile I thought it was the way to go...I was wrong. The day I picked up my new vehicle 72 hours after getting it I opened up the hatch trunk and the piston that holds up the trunk broke and fell right down. Right after that was repaired my passenger door would stick and could not be opened from the inside of the vehicle or from the outside. After two attempts they finally repaired that for me. From the time I got the car I could always smell gas inside of the car. There was a clunging in the back end of the vehicle when the brake was applied and had that looked at and they could not detect what the problem was. I drove it off the dealership and the first set of lights me and my daughter heard this clunk again. The other morning I was taking my daughter to school and just as I started the car the engine light was on and the vehicle was shaking and would not go past 40km an hour. I called Saturn and they told me my warranty was up on June 1, 2008 or 60,000km, well I was on 64,000km when I called and they told me that the warranty is finsihed. I took the vehicle into Saturn and this was the report I received: 65011 ENGINE MIS FIRING ON CYLINDERS 1 & 2 2.0 HRS. LABOUR PERFORM DIAGNOSTIC CHECK. P0300 CURRENT CODE FOR MIS FIRES. PERFORM INJECTOR FLUSH AS PER P.S.B. P0300 DIA. FLUSH DID NOT REMOVE CODE PERFORM FURTHER DIAGNOSIS. IGNITION MODULE SHORTED INTERNAL. INSTALL NEW MODULE AND CLEAR CODE FROM SYSTEM. TEST DRIVE VEHICLE O.K. After paying 471.96 dollars I drove away from the dealership and half way home my engine light is back on again and staying on. Well I might not know a whole lot about vehicles but when a cyclinder is mis firing I would only assume that is an engine problem. I have all the records of all my regular maintenance that was performed on my vehicle. I have kept up with all the maintenance.
Amanda of New Baden IL (05/28/08)
2004 saturn ion ahs had problems since it was 2 years old. vehicle was bought brand new. has been in numerous times as teh back window rolls down on its own and also the radio freezes up. every time dealer cant find problem. this is the current dealer i live by. the other dealer was in west chester pa. anyway last time i had it in they were supposed to look at it and told me they didnt have time and i had to bring it back. i made an appointment and brought it in this evening and now im being told i must pay for this. i called the saturn dealer i bought it at and got no help. called their corportat office and was told to go ahead and pay for the diognostic test and then maybe they would do somthing about fixiing it,. i told her i was not paying for anything as i felt it should be covered from past ptoblems and they were not very helpful. i am ticked as i thought saturn stood by their products and this vehicle has a history.
Howard of Dewey AZ (05/28/08)
Re a new car purchase, I was allowed a discount of $2500. I was charged sales tax on the price of the car plus the discount, based on the representation that this was the Az Dept of Revenue rules. Their position was that this was a factory incentive. After many discussions with them, Dept of Revenue, and other dealers, and research of statute and rulings, I have found no support for their position. They are unable to cite any ruling or statute. I do not know whether they are passing on this additional sales tax to the State but I feel many car buyers have been overcharged.
Rhonda of Wichita KS (05/15/08)
I own a 2003 Saturn Vue, my complaint is that the alarm system kept going off randomly and the door locks kept locking and unlocking (whether the car was on or not). We took it into the Saturn dealer at the West location in Wichita and were told it was the BCM (which is one of the main computers). It is 462.00 to replace and it affects most of the electrical components in the car. We were told by the service manager that the computer in the car was like buying a home computer, sometimes you get a good one and sometimes you don't. I took this as if you buy a Saturn, you are taking a chance. We bought the car brand new and have never had an accident. There is only 51,000 miles on the car. The customer rep at Saturn's 1-800-553-6000 number agreed it should have lasted longer but would only agree to take $100.00 off of the bill.
Raul of Austin TX (05/12/08)
I have a 2002 Saturn SL2 that I purchased from the Austin dealership. I have had to replace the battery 4 times in the time I've had the car. The dealership has been less than helpful in addressing the problem; I have asked them to fix the problem, but before I know it, the battery dies again. The last time I took it in for the same problem, I was told that the problem was a torque axis mount that needed to be replaced. I was charged $257.27 and had to refuse other supposed essential repairs that had nothing to do with the battery dying. They told me they had checked the starter, but the invoice I got did not mention that. When I asked the mechanic if he could include the results from that diagnostic, he at first refused. When I insisted, he angrily wrote a short note at the end after shouting into the shop, Hey, you checked the starter, right? This occured on 4/11/2008. On 5/09/08, my car battery died again; I visited an O'Reilly auto parts store where they actually tested the battery and found that it was running low. I purchased a new battery for $73.35 and replaced the old one thinking this would solve the problem. Today, 5/12/08, after running some errands, the car battery is dead. I am extreemly disappointed in the car and the dealership and would like to hear from your attorneys about can be done. I have to take the car into the dealership tomorrow and am fully expecting the run around. Either the car is a lemon, or the dealership is incompetent.
Lynne of Mesa AZ (05/07/08)
Purchased a new 2008 Saturn/UE XE FWD on 12/13/07. Had to take car in for service on 01/15/08 because remote would not unlock all doors, horn would not beep after hitting remote twice, interior lights stayed on all night, seatbelt light would not turn off. Saturn could not duplicate customer concern - could not locate a problem. 04/30/07 - Took car back for service because: All interior dome lamps will sometimes stay on while driving or after vehicle is locked up with remotes - very intermittant. Also, rear cargo lights once stayed on after vehicle was locked with remote bugt other interior lights went off. Horn does not honk when car is locked remotely - again, intermittant. All interior lights stayed on for 20+ mile trip from Mesa to Tempe and were pointed out to service department when we pulled in. Saturn Service could not duplicate customer concerns after keeping the car for three and a half days and after having several service personnel drive car 195 miles. Saturn cannot locate the problem and returned vehicle to us. I contacted Saturn Customer Service. They stated they can do nothing because they cannot located the/a problem. I live in Arizona - temps can go as high as 117 degrees in the summer. I am concerned about the reliability of the vehicle that had less than 2000 miles on it when we took it in for service. I have asked Saturn to find and fix the problem or replace the car. They have been courteous but seem to believe it is okay for me to drive the car as is. The car is fully guaranteed. This is my third new Saturn in approximately five years.
Sherry of Lexington SC (05/06/08)
Just found out about this site today and will relate problems I had in 2007. But the problem is serious enough to warn others and make them aware. My saturn that I purchase new, would cut off without warning while driving. Happened once in Atlanta, GA traffic and once on a trip back from NC. Also happened around town. Each time I took it in to service, I was told that they couldn't find anything wrong with it. That if it wasn't doing it at the time the computer couldn't tell what was wrong, which was a complete load of BS and double talk as what kind of computer or mechanic (they do not deserve to be called service technicians based on their lack of knowledge)can't tell what's wrong with a car. Also, rhea preston & saturn showed a TOTAL AND COMPLETE LACK OF CONCERN over this serious a problem. Wonder what he/they would have done if their POS saturn cut off in traffic. rhea preston looked like he was going to fall asleep while we were talking. I wrote letters of complaint and concern and NOT ONCE heard anything from anyone at the Saturn Corp. saturn has gone completely downhill as they are NOT the company of the early '90s. BUYER BEWARE. I have told all my friends and family of the personal, documented problems I have had and none of them, including me, would a saturn even if they gave it to us.
Kayla of Madison WI (05/05/08)
I purchased a 2004 Saturn ION practically new (only 1,200 mi.) and have not had issues with it until this last week. I left for work and decided to get gas along the way. After coming back out to my car, it wouldn't start. I had to have two men help me push it to the side. I called Saturn, and they said it was probably the ignition switch triggering the security system, I should try starting it in 15 minutes and it should start. WELL.. it started, and I drove it to Saturn figuring if they have seen a lot of these, there would be some sort of recall. Instead, they hooked it up to their diagnostic machine which comes in at a whopping $99.00 or.. $106.00 with tax. This accomplished nothing as they knew what was wrong with it already. SO, not only did I have to pay the $106 to confirm something I already knew, they wanted to charge me $399.00 to fix it. I told them no thank you, I will follow up with Saturn Customer Service. And after reading all of the complaints on here about the igition switch issues, it makes me sick. Forget about threatening to call the Better Business Beurau, I am calling today.
Barbara of Avondale PA (04/30/08)
I have owned the car not quite 2 weeks now. I noticed when exiting the garage frontwards that the brakes do not stop the car. I reported this and was told to rev the car several times and do not use the emergency brake when parking. I took the car in for another service and they made an adjustment at that time. I did not use the car for 3 days and when I got ready to go to work on Monday, I exited the garage and stopped to assure the closure of the garage door when the brakes did not engage again. When I left work yesterday, I was exiting the parking lot when the brakes failed again. This seems to happen when the car has been sitting for a period of time. I took the car to the dealership for the 2nd time and they still have it today. They indicated that they had no clue why the brakes did not work. When we ordered the car we had heard that there was a problem with the brakes. We asked this question at the dealership and were assured that the problem has been since settled when it was being assembled in the factory. Not on my car. I am very disappointed. I enjoy the car but do not feel safe with the brakes failing so frequently, everyday for almost 2 weeks since delivery.
David of Fort Mohave AZ (04/26/08)
I bought a 2007 Saturn ION 3 that had 5000 miles on it when I purchased it and have had nothing but problems with it. I have had to have it towed to the nearest dealer (which is 100mi away) 4 times I have had to drive it down there 3 times and the cooperation is giving me the run around. I ham not happy because at the present time it will stall when I start the car in the morning and they want me to take my car down there and leave it. The car only has 24,500mi on it and should not be having so many problems!!!
Clayton of West TX (04/26/08)
I leased a 2005 saturn vue and 2 months after I started noticeing the seats were showing stains.we could not remember spilling anything on them except water.the more we cleaned them the worse they got.we cant find a detail shop that can clean them,they all say these are the worst cars for stains and cant get all the stains out.
Lisa of Sun Valley NV (04/16/08)
When we first purchased our Saturn Ion, brand new in 2005, we had no problems with the vehicle and loved it. Two years later we began having problems getting the car to start if the outside temp. dropped below 40 degrees. We can almost count on it NOT starting whenever it gets cold outside, but sometimes it will surprise us and start for the longest time even when its cold, and then one day it won't. It has become such a pain in the neck that I do not consider my car a reliable source of transportation any more. My husband and I both work full time jobs and can't afford to be relying on an unreliable vehicle.
I have been late to work on numerous occasions due to the fact that my vehicle refuses to start. I have had to walk to my in-laws house to borrow their car to get to work, leaving them without transportation. I have had to take my husband's truck to work and left him without a vehicle; his vehicle is a tool required for his job, he is a general contractor and needs his truck to haul materials and tools to and from job sites.
Bill of Los Angeles CA (03/12/08)
This is not a complaint about the cars themselves, but about the company. In November, Saturn announced their hybird VUE (a crossover) would be available by Christmas, so we put $500 down toward one. Christmas came, and the cars were not delievered. They did arrive in January, but in small numbers and not in the colors we requested. Now it is March, and Saturn has just told me that the VUE hybrids will not be available until MAY. This is infuriating. I really want a hybrid, and I really want a minivan--but there ARE no hybrid minivans in the U.S. My wife really wants an American car, so we're forced toward the Ford Escape, which is painful for me to enter, because of my arthritic hip. And American automobile companies wonder why their sales are so low.
Carrie of Kendall WI (02/23/08)
In Nov 2007 the engine of my 1999 Saturn SL1 hydrolocked. I guess I can't really complain about that because I had about 198000 miles on it. I took it to a GM dealer to have it looked at. Because the rest of the car was in good shape they reccomended that I replace the engine. They offered me an engine with 55000 miles on it with a one year 24000 mile warranty. I paid them the $3000 for the labor and the engine. It took them twice as long to complete the job then they quoted me. When my husband picked up the car, a few miles down the road the check engine light came on. He called the dealership, they said that it wasnt a big deal and that they had just forgot to reset the codes from when they replaced the engine. So we ignored the light and comtinued driving it. The car has driven fine with no problems at all. A few days ago my coolant level light came on. Seeing how this is what led to my engine locking up i called and scheduled an appointment to have it looked at. When I took it in i told them that the check engine light had gone off this morning and that it hadnt been reset when they replaced the engine. They took care of the coolant light but called to tell me that i have 7 failure codes that come up when they run the diagnostic on my car. These are things like the O2 sensor being bad, my cadalidac converter functioning improperly, my cruise control being disconnected (but it works because i used it on the way to take my car in), no transmission in first gear (but my car starts in first gear and drives fine), and some ignition control problem. Now I have opted not to have any of these things fixed and have drove my car quite a bit since then and my car drives perfectly normal, no problem starting, shifting, using the cruise, and the service engine light has not come on again, They assure me that it has nothing to do with them replacing the engine. They want me to fix these things but they will not honor the warranty that i recieved when I had the engine replaced. I also do not see how i can have all of these problems with my car when it runs as if nothing is wrong. They are now telling me that i never should have put a different engine in the car with it having the mileage it did.
Dennis of Northfield NJ (02/19/08)
I have a 2001 Saturn wagon with a 4 cycle engine. I pulled out of my street and the engine just stopped. I had the car towed to Saturn and they inspected it and told me that the Timing belt had broken. They found a used engine that could be used with no warranty.
Erin of Cream Ridge NJ (02/13/08)
I purchased a 2004 Saturn Ion. My first problem accured when I started getting water leaking inside my car under the driver side, making the carpet wet. I took it in and they charged me to clean out the tube that runs from my sun-roof down under my dashboard. At this point, I was only 100 miles over from my warrenty. My warrenty was up at 3600 miles and I was at 3700. The second time I had to bring back my car for the same problem, they replaced the tube. It has now been 7 times...7 times! That I have had to bring my car in for water leaking in my car. It was so bad at one point that on one particular cold and wet day my carpet was a mixture of water and ice. Not only has it caused my car to smell, but it has caused several electrical issues. I have had everything from my alarm shorting out, to my radio fizzing out, and when I put my car on cruise control my car speeds up on its own. It is obvious that my car now has water damage. The second issue I have had with this car is that I also have trouble starting my car when it gets cold out. I have to turn my car over for about 20 minutes before I can get it going. This seems to be a common problem with many other people as well. This is my second Saturn, but after this experience, I will never get another Saturn. I was a loyal Saturn costumer until I had both the experience with the quality of the car and the poor costumer service I have been given.
Sarah of Hamilton Township NJ (02/06/08)
The slave cylinder in the hydraulic clutch of my 2005 Saturn VUE went last night when I was in my way home from work - actually while coasting up to the EZPass lane to exit the NJ Turnpike! Talk about dangerous! I power-shifted the last few miles home and immediately took it to the nearest Saturn dealership. Lori from Saturn of Bordentown called me first thing the next morning to say that they had diagnosed the problem: fluid was leaking from the slave cylinder bell housing and that it will cost more than $1500 to repair because the transmission has to be removed from the engine to do it! And, to top it off, my 3 year (the car is only 2.5 years old)/ 36,000 mile warranty will not cover it because I have 43,000 miles on the vehicle! Will somebody please tell me how an impeccably-drived standard transmission goes in under 50,000 miles?! Every other car I have owned went well past 100,000 on its first clutch, so I feel certain that my driving (all highway, by the way) has nothing to do with this problem. So I guess I am going to be left holding the bag for Saturn's costly design choices and for what I believe is a faulty part?! Thanks, GM. You really make it hard to buy American!
Kimberly of Atlanta GA (02/05/08)
I live in metro Atlanta and own a 2006 Saturn Ion with 61K miles. This is normal mileage for Atlanta. My other cars were a Corolla, an Eclipse and a Camry. All of them had close to or over 200K miles and never left me stranded on the side of the road. Up until the incident that I would like to forget my Ion was great. It rode like my mid size Camry and was great on gas. My car was running fine with no signs of trouble. I even had OnStar, which every month gave me a diagnostic report indicating my engine and transmission were ok. I now know that this was not the case. On a Sunday morning, before I made it to the interstate, my Automatic Ion on its own downshifted from about 65miles to 30miles an hour. It sounded like a manual transmission downshifting. I managed to move it over one lane to the emergency lane. The car didnt move forward another inch in any gear. The only gear I had was reverse.
Stewart of Martinsburg WV (02/05/08)
at first the car stopped dead on the interstate and would start with no power..had it towed dealer, said converter was bad..total for work was 1095.62. this was done12/14/07. we started having problem with repair light staying on called dealer..said bring it in... they said the problem was thermostat was bad..they would have to break it down to get to it... 85.00 per hr. for the labor up to total for labor was 475.00. total sale was 647.00. i told them while they had it apart to put new plugs in since it was 84000 miles...the first sale was labor 195.00 converter was 911.00 plus parts . so don't feel bad if u r being take to the bank with a blank check made out to saturn..the engine light is on again..man said it might b something the did wrong.etc....i thought we were dealing with professionals. i stand corrected....
William of South Beloit IL (01/28/08)
I have a new transmission installed. My coverage provider set up with a supplier to have the transmission sent to have it installed. About 12 weeks my car started to shift hard. A light would come on and reset itself after each start up. I took it in 2 times and all they could do what hook it up and say that I needed to leave it. After so many time of going in and getting nowhere, I took it to a transmission shop to see what they could tell me. They told me that they found metals shavings and that should not of been there with 25,000 miles on it. IT came down to the install not being done right. Saturns Service Dept will not own up to it.
Andrew of Steger IL (01/27/08)
I recently purchased a used 1997 Saturn SC1. This car had 150,000 miles and some engine problems. I bought it private party and it was seemingly a very good deal. After spending a lot of time and money to fix the same problems, it still consumes oil. I blow a lot of smoke from the tailpipe, and am dissappointed greatly in this car. I had the motor rebuilt, new valves, timing chain, etc..., and I still have more problems. After reading all of the other reports, I will never again waste money on a Saturn. With the money I spent on this car and its endless maintainance, I could've fixed my Honda and still been happy.
C of Gahanna OH (01/25/08)
My 2003 Saturn VUE has had a series of problems. Bad rotor bearing, bad steering column, bad alarm system, and now (2 weeks after the warranty expired) the speedometer is stuck, which calls for a $650 replacement of the instrument panel. A friend bought my old SL2 and it is going strong, but I'll definitely go elsewhere for my next SUV.
Keisha of Compton CA (01/23/08)
I purchased the 2008 Saturn Vue XE and had lojack installed on the car. After driving it for about a week, I realized that the leg room was short causing me to have leg cramps. I went to Saturn of Torrance to find out my options. I was told, by a service representive that Saturn has an exchange program. This was surprising because not once did the sales representative or finance manager mentioned this to me. I researched the information on the Saturn website which stated I had 30 days/1500 miles to exchange the vehicle and no damages could exceed $300. When I went in to exchange for a Saturn Vue with powerseats and I requested not to repurchase lojack for this vehicle since it came with Onstar. Saturn of Torrance said I had to match the contracts exactly. I asked for them to show this to me in writing, but they couldn't. Nor was this information disclosed on their website. I went through two weeks of mental anguish and stress coming to some compromise. Also, Saturn of Torrance preseal their cars with the polyseal product which forces customers to pay for a nonstadard feature. I have spoken with the area manager and expressed to her that their information about the 30 day exchange program needs to be more specific!
Elizabeth of Louisville TN (01/22/08)
Why have I never been notified about the recall on the rear suspension? You know, the one that causes the rear wheels to collapse when a sharp turn is made? It isn't as if Saturn doesn't have my address or phone number, which remain the same since we purchased two Vues in September of 2003. They have made sure to contact me at least once a month to try to sell me more cars, so I know they can reach me. This suspension defect has resulted in accelerated wear of tires, according to my independent mechanic who discovered the problem and told me about the recall. Saturn seems to be trying to save money by not fixing this problem, thank God my sons have not been hurt, there would be a MAJOR lawsuit filed by me if anything should happen due to Saturn's negligence!!! I will never buy another General Motors product. Why did they neglect to notify me?
Heather of Stratfrod NY (01/21/08)
While driving down the road (approx. 55-60MPH) in my 2002 Saturn Vue on January 18, 2007, my Reduced Power light came on on my dash, and I immediately lost power to my car. Soon after that light came on, my Service Engine Soon light lit up. I put my car in neutral (it's a standard) and shut the ignition down. In 15 degree weather, with my 3 children all 6 years and under in age, I had to pull my car off the road and call AAA. I had to wait 1/2 an hour for a tow truck, my kids freezing in the backseat, and call my mother to come get us. After the GM dealership took a look, I was told my timing chain went and completely destroyed my motor, since it was a zero tolerance engine. As of this month, Saturn recalled their L-series wagons with the same engine as my Vue, claiming a faulty oiler nozzle lubricating the timing chain. Then I also found out a tech bulletin went out back in 2003 letting all the Saturn dealerships know about this nozzle, yet I wasn't even notified about the even taking the precaution of changing the nozzle at my expense to avoid this $3500 bill. I've called up the Saturn recall center, opened a case, and they are in touch with the district manager and my local Saturn dealership in hopes we can come to a resolution. All I know, is even though my vehicle has 117,000 -- I've changed my oil religiously, and it's been a great car to us otherwise. But that timing chain should of lived the life of the car, as long as I did basic maintenance. (Which I have, this car is my lifeline living in the Adirondacks with 3 kids alone during the week while my husband drives a tractor trailer over the road)
Tina of Leland NC (01/21/08)
I own a 2004 Saturn Ion (bought brand new). I have had nothing but trouble with this vehicle. I owned a saturn before and never had trouble. My experience has not been good from the beginning. I was told that if I went with cloth seats that it would be okay because they used what is called Saturn Guard. Well let me just say that whenever it rains and a drop falls on the seats it leaves water circles (which are all over the seats). When I told someone they said that they would detail the seats, but when I went back the person I talked to no longer worked there and there was nothing they could do. Then a few weeks later I went to pop over my hood and the lever broke into my hand. Well then a few months went by and everything was fine.
Then the weather turned colder and that is where my biggest problem comes into play. One cold morning I went to go start up my car and nothing happened. I thought my battery was dead, but then I realized that my lights were working, radio, windows, everything- but it wouldn't start.Odd!!! Then I looked in my dash and the engine light and alarm light were on. I would have to keep trying for about 20 mins. Sometimes it would act like it would start but if i tried soon after it wouldn't even make a noise. I took it to the dealer and they said they didn't see a problem. Mind you it doesn't do it every morning and it only does it when it is cold and for the initial start. During the warm months I have no problems.
I recently took it to the dealer because I have had enough. At this time my warranty has expired. They have the car maybe a hour and they call me and said that they have found the problem- my ignition switch needs to be replaced and they would gladly fix the problem for about $250. I don't think that is the problem. I have been telling them I thought it was the anti-theft system because the alarm light comes on whenever this happens. They said they could put it under warranty but they don't show me coming in for this problem but one time. I took it in ever year i owed it. Makes you wonder why they are so easily able to diagnosis now that the warranty has expired. I will never own another Saturn and I recommend that to whoever ask!
Rob of Noel MO (01/17/08)
My 2006 Saturn ION won't start on some cold mornings. I have called Saturn Corporation and there dealer Saturn of Northwest Arkansas where we bought the car new in 2005. They both are familiar with this very common problem and refuse to take any responsility. The battery is fine, the headlights don't even dim when trying to start (like with a battery issue). Both Saturn and the dealer believe it is something to do with the ignition. Usaully after a 10-30 minutes of trying every few minutes the car will start and rum like nothing is wrong at all. It runs fine until the next morning and then we never know if it is going to start. We have been told by them that this is a common defect. We have had numerous other issues that they have covered under warranty. This problem arised at about 40,000 miles. We feel like this problem should have been recalled with this widespread problem.
Erin of Garden Grove CA (12/10/07)
I have to tell you how disappointed I am with Saturn cars and customer service, I have owned my Saturn Vue for just under 4 years. I recently needed to purchase an engine (bits of timing chain in the oil pain) (my car only had 38,000 miles on it) I did purchase the extended warranty but due to lack of maintenance on my end it was not covered. I have had my car back 4 weeks .. its been in the shop 5X in this time period 2x for engine light on and the rest a hose keeps popping off... I AM DONE with SATURN.. I want mine fixed so I can sell it.. The worst part is I bought the car because it was reliable.
Gamble of Coshocton OH (12/07/07)
I was rear ended and had to take my car to the body shop to be repaired. The rear bumper of my car had to be replaced. The repair shop repaired my vehicle, and when I went to pick it up. notice the rear bumper was disfigured so to say. It has a bow in the middle of the bumper. Per the parts department, this is how all the bumpers they have are. I do not think my car should look any different than it did before the accident. They are telling me its nothing they can do. Now my car still looks like its been hit. I am very dissatisfied with the way it looks. I called Saturn to issue and complaint, and they basically told me its nothing they can do. Now I am stuck with a bumper that is deformed. This is not how my car looked before the accident.
Jeff of Azle TX (12/03/07)
My situation is simple. The new Relay I purchase was made in 08/2006 and I bought in 10/2007. It had 700 miles. From 700 to 900 miles the van has had 2 windshields, battery, tires balance, hub cap replace, and a fuel tank sensor. At 950 miles the Saturn mechanic did not attach the fuel line from the gas cap to fuel tank properly on the previous visit. So I had lost a full tank of gas. Not realizing this and a empty gas tank I lost another 6 gallons before I realize what was happening. The Relay was tow back to Saturn. The headphones to the DVD player was replace as well. With 1450 miles the Relay is back in the shop this time to replace the DVD player, the storage bin, a vibration in the front end, another fuel tank sensor. Do you all think Saturn sold me a lemon.
Ryan of Wausau WI (12/03/07)
I am at the end of my thread dealing with Saturn. I purchase a 2004 saturn Ion (6/11/04), brand new. The first sign of cold that year, late november, the car would not start at all. after awhile(10-15 min.) it would start up like nothing was wrong. I brought it in 12/28/04, which they replaced the ignition lock module; saying that was the problem. I still had issues with the car through the winter, and they didnt know was what wrong. Everytime I brought it in, they would find nothing wrong and send me on my way since they couldnt reproduce the issue.
The next winter than same thing happnned. I was stuck in the cold a few mornings before work trying to get the car started. Saturn claimed it was too cold outside for my car to start, and told me to wait a bit before bringing it in.(it maybe went below 0 degrees that week twice) Fed up I brought it in again on 1/17/05, which they replaced my block assembly, wire harness, starter, battery, and wire connecters. They really werent sure what was wrong they admitted, but it seems to work now. The car would work for a few weeks, then the same issue arises again. On 4/15/05 saturn had to replace my radio receiver for faulty issues. That same winter, my car would not start in the cold again. it was brought in on 12/20/05, which they replaced my ignition switch saying the ususal This will fix the problem.
Now, just under two years later, I am back to having the same issues of my car not starting in the cold. Saturn of Wausau mechanics are now throwing their hands up saying I must purchase another ignition switch, and pay them to put it in for a total of $220. Unacceptable. This is a pre-existing condion, the same condition that has been an issue ever since i owned this vehicle. I do not believe i should have to pay for another part considering the time i have lost from work, the time sitting out in the cold early mornings, the many hours spent in the lobby waiting for an answer, and not to mention the time worrying every morning if my vehicle will start or not just because i decided to trust saturn and spend $18,000 of my money and purchase one of their reliable products and unsurpassed service.
Allison of Portland OR (11/24/07)
2000 Saturn SL1 won't pass DEQ after 4 tries; DEQ says computer has to be reset, Saturn says to drive it and that will reset the computer (I have driven till exhausted and taken straight to DEQ and it has still been classed as unready) but other people have said that I can drive it till the cows come home but only Saturn can reset the computer because the computer stopped working itself for some reasons not because of any repairs I've previously had. Saturn also said that I have a lot of problems with the car that need taken care of(Saturn can do the work for 1600 and then I would have to drive it for five cycles before the computer will trip itself, you would think that after they did the repairs they would reset the computer anyway?) and then the computer will set itself. My last trip pass will expire on 12-6 then I will be without a car because Saturn won't reset my car's computer unless I pay thousands to them to do repairs. Any advice would be helpful. Thank you
Murray of Hamilton TN (11/24/07)
My son purchased a 2003 Ion on my backing because of what I thought Saturns backing of their cars was,reliable cars with a good safety record.I was wrong unless I have missed something,these cars don start in the winter time and this issue is indorsed by thousands on web sites,all saying Saturn is turning their heads and ignoring the issue.Please prove me wrong and tell me I'm missing something because right now i can tell you my family and extended family will not go near a Saturn.I am a Manager for Siemens worldwide and can not understand how a company would not stand behind their product to secure future business.
Ana of Albuquerque NM (11/23/07)
Help!! I am having serious issues with my 2006 Saturn Vue. About one week ago I noticed I was having problems with the car alarm and thought maybe the battery on the key chain needed replacing- but that was not the case. I guess it was a sign of more to come. The car refused to start and was not registering gas, nor would the vehicle turn off lights after they had bee turned on. No one could determine what was wrong so the vehicle was subsequently towed to Saturn. The customer service was absolutely horrible and demeaning. While the battery was replaced under warranty they made me feel like an idiot- telling me I had left a light on in the vehicle. I explained that no light had been left on and how I had turned on the dome light just to see what was working and then was not able to turn it off. I do not know about cars but told them how it seemed the battery was being drained by something else. They disagreed then told me that it was odd that three other Saturn Vues had come in with the same problem. Come on now- we don't have to be mechanics to understand something is definitely wrong. I've had the car back in my possession for thee days and the battery is not staying charged - again.... I can't find anything online about this problem, but am really concerned that Saturn is not taking this seriously.
Amy of Sanford ME (11/23/07)
I purchased my 04 Saturn Ion Vin #1G8AL52F54Z127204 on 8/ 5/04.The first year of ownership was fine however starting in December 2005 the issues began over and over again.On 12/09/05 I had brought my vehicle in because of a loud noise it was making over bumps Service #5096076 when the car only had 21431 miles on it. The had to replace the Bushing s to correct the issue. Two months later the vehicle was making the same noise, so on 2/11/06 I brought the vehicle back Service #5097546 and they replaced the Mount Assembly Operation. I brought the vehicle back only 2 days later with the same issue. On 2/13/06 Service # 5097562 they replaced the Mount Assembly AGAIN .
I drove the car then for approximately one week and yet again had the same problem. I brought the vehicle back on 02/21/06 with the same concern, Service #5097581, this time they replaced the Struts , the Links , the Insulators , and the Struts . Only then did it finally fix the problem after fourth time to the dealer and lots of agravation did the issue get resolved so I thought this issue is continued on after another issue is explained. This was only one issue of many. The windows in my car stopped working properly and were going off the track, on 10/31/06 Service #5103040 I brought the car back in once again. This time they had to replace the Regulators in the door to make them work again.
Then to my dimyze the squeak in the front of my vehicle returned yet again. So on 01/19/07 Service # 5105018 they replaced the Insulators yet again, five visits total. I then intermittently could not get the car to start, I would fifteen minutes or so and then the car would start. This happened for 3 weeks and then I brought it into the dealership yet again. I brought the car in on 02/07/07 to find out that there was yet another problem. Service #5105571, they found that the ignition switch was faulty and needed to replaced. This yet was not the final solution to the problem. I yet again had to bring the vehicle back two days later. On 02/09/07 Service # 5105594 I brought the vehicle back yet again for the same issue. This time they found that the Computer and needed to be replaced to correct the issue. This has fixed the problem to date but who's to say that this once again may happen again. The next issue that occurred less than 2 months later.
The engine was reving very high even in park and was not stopping as designed . This was an extreme concern of mine. I brought the vehicle back to the dealer once again on 3/2,/07, Service #5106323, where they found that the Idle Air Control was causing the issue and they replaced it Operation code J5542. I was hoping that this would resolve the issue the first time and would not have to come back again. I unfortunately was mistaken. I had the same issue arise again only a month and a half later. I brought the vehicle back on, 05/15/2007 Service#5107495 for the same idling issue however this time they were not able to duplicate the issue and said that there was nothing they could do for me. The issue was still occurring on a frequent bases but every time I was about to make an appointment to have it looked at the issue and concern went away. This issue concerned me greatly because when trying to brake in the car the engine was still reving high and would cause the car not to stop correctly.On 10/07/07 I was on my way to Massachusetts and the issue was extremely severe to a point that I knew that I had to have it looked at again.
I immediately drove it the Saturn of Lowell Massachusetts to have it looked, knowing that the issue was occurring right then and there. I brought the car in and the issue was addressed Service #7130327, and they replaced the Engine control module. I was hoping that was it, however on 11/17/07 I had to bring it back. They have been unable to resolve or duplicate the issue and have told me there is nothing they can do there is nothing wrong with the car. I have been in touch with Saturn Corporation as well and they have stated that they cannot do anything further with the car due to the fact that the mechanic has found nothing wrong. I feel that this car is a hazard to me and my family.
The vehicle does not stop as designed. When the engine revs high and I try to stop its hesitant and then when I let off the brake the car can lurch forward with the momentum from the engine. The vehicle has not been fixed and I don't feel that it ever will based on the issue that it has had. I feel that at this point the vehicle is a hazard and needs to be bought back by the Saturn Corporation and they are not willing to work with me in reference to this matter. The last time I spoke to them they stated that they cannot fix the car and that I need to pick it up.
The only option that they gave to me was to bring it to another Saturn dealer to have it looked at, it has already been to two dealerships and I don't feel that I should have to inconvenience myself with another disappointment bringing it to another dealer that will also tell me that they cannot duplicate the issue. It's and intermittent problem I understand however it still should be fixed and they are not willing to do so.
Cynthia of Lebanon PA (11/20/07)
Saturn Hybrid 2007 VUE brakes failed and car proceeded to crash into garage wall when car lurched forward. I did contact a head honcho at Satur who refuses to accept blame for accident. I do have all information on this process.
Elaine of Mt. Pleasant SC (11/18/07)
bad finish on my 05 ion-dull; want it re-finished
Latrell of Simpsonville SC (11/18/07)
I need your help with trying to get a resolution from Saturn Corporation. I purchased a mini van (Saturn Relay) from them 7/5/2005 and on 8/11/2005 my right rear sliding door would not close. The resolution was to replace a defective part. Well, on 8/11/2005 I had to return the vehicle the same day I received it back from the dealership when it was supposedly repaired because the door would continue to pop open after closing. I returned to the Service Department at Saturn of Greenville again on 9/08/2005 and 9/20/2005 for the same problems. I
place a customer service case with Saturn's customer service center and received a 75,000 mile warranty on the door or until Dec. 3, 2009 (whichever occurs first) Ha! Anyway, I had no other problems until 5/09/2007 when I returned my vehicle to the service dept. at Saturn of Greenville for yet the SAME problem. I was highly upset and did not want the vehicle back due to safety concerns. I have a 1 year old son who travels in this vehicle as well as a pre-teen daughter. I was so upset that I actually started crying; and anyone that knows me would be surprised.
Jesse of Silver Spring MD (11/14/07)
I purchased a car from a friend of mine, this 1993 Saturn SL1. It has about 180.000 Miles on it (and thats alot) but it was well maintained. Just shortly after getting it, I started experiencing the reverse slam as others have affectionately dubbed it. I am an ASE Certified Mechanic and I know it's one of two problems. It's either the Transmission Valve (which seems to be an issue) or the transmission is imploding itself. the main thing is I have changed out the battery, changed out the filters, and all of this. Now it refuses to shift from first to second, when warmed up. After I tried to start it up, it was slow to restart. It may be the starter as well, but I am not quite sure. I would think that with this many complaints, Saturn would at least rethink their standpoint on their transmissions, no matter how expensive they are to replace, step up to the bat for people who have general needs for their vehicles who may not be able to afford one, and fix the problem they love to ignore!
Sean of Lawrence MA (11/08/07)
My 1999 SL1/sohc has been quite reliable. I have a warn out exhaust system from the catalytic converter back. The dealer can replace it for $1000. OK. I have been told that the cat unit costs about $800. I have since searched car part prices and can't find a cat unit for more than a couple hundred dollars. All of the parts could not be $800., combined. I am disapointed.
Evy of Fremont IN (11/07/07)
I had a creaky noise in the front of my 2005 Saturn Vue. The dealership said the front stabilizer links needed to be replaced. The car was in service for about two and one half years. It had 39,371 miles on it so the repair was not covered under warranty.
Ron of Dayton OH (10/31/07)
I took my wifes car in, a 2002 station wagon LS series. The service manager said it needed a power steering pump. A $600 cost. I said wouldn't my warranty cover it . I was then told my warranty had expired. I said that cant be. I bought the car in March of 2005, purchased a five year extended warranty for the duration of the loan. The person that sold was a sales manager and explained that way to me and my wife. I was informed by the service manager that day that the warranty was retroactive back to the original owner. I paid $1200 for a 2 year warranty? No Way! Please explain to me how you can rip people off like this and get away with it. nobody at the dealership will help or doesnt want to. I am noy going to let lie. I still have to make payments on a warranty that i don't have. Go figure.
Linda of Johnstown PA (10/21/07)
I have been getting sales promotions from Saturn for my father who had been DEAD for 3 YEARS. I have called NUMEROUS times in these three years to have these ads stopped and am assured each time that it would be taken care of.
I have called the Monroeville, Pa. office, and that is not a toll-free number. It is bad enough I had to deal with the circumstances of his death and now to be constantly reminded that he is no longer with us.
Javier of Mecca CA (10/07/07)
Saturn 2000 sc2 intake manifold spewed hot steamed water in face after steam from engine forced me to stop in the freeway very dissatisfied on engeneers that put people like me at risk by making parts that need large amounts of strength to keep pressurized water in engine. But made a crucial part out of pourus plastic. what genious they are.
Tiffany of Milwaukee WI (10/01/07)
my saturn is a 2000 ls series, that has had problems since day one.first my air stopped working the first week of purchase.second my coolant leaked inside my car that was $400 to be fixed. then my Timing Chain Broke oh my god now i'm out of $1500 to 3000 depending on what they say.
Keith of Sammamish WA (09/11/07)
I have a 1999 Saturn SL2. It was purchased new and has been taken very good care of. The oil was always changed on time. If anything I'm quailty of changing it too often.At 72,000 miles I was on the open freeway when the motor starting making a clanging noise. It never overheated and continued to run. It was taken to the dealer, where I had purchased two new vehicles from them. After supplying all of my maintinence records,they told me that it would need a new engine.The main bearing was falling apart.
They wanted roughly $4,500.00 for a new engine. My choices were limited as my famely (wife and kids need a vehicle. I ended up buying another car while there. I have this very clean car on the side of my house that needs a engine. I'm a UNION Electrician who purchased these vehicles based on values and there advertisement of people getting 200k miles out of these cars. I had that car in twice under warranty for it's large consumption of oil use.
They said there was nothing wrong. It wasn't until the car had problems that I was told by another Saturn mechanic that these vehicles can use 1 to 1.5 qts. of oil every time I fill up based on heat. WHAT? That surely was not discussed in any of my first two Saturn purchases of the SL2 model. Warranty or not give me a break 72k miles seems to be the average for there problems.
At least they could offer labor or parts. Oh ya don't discuss the new tires on them that wear out at 12k miles. always rotated they wore out evenly at 12k miles.They won't back it you must go to firestone. Firestone won't back it you must go too the dealer. Give me a break! I know where they should go. The vehicle is on the side of my house. Hey Saturn I'm waiting,let me know when you feel like giving me a motor I'll put it in myself. Thanks, for nothing.
Bob of Holland KY (09/10/07)
Bought new 2007 Saturn in March. Went to drive-in movie battery went dead. Went on 6 day vacation came home battery was dead. Service manager said that Saturns, Acadias, Escalads where having problems with the charging system and batteries. He said to kept reporting the problem and he thought that Saturn would have a recall on problem. On line have found other people with the same problem.
Thomas of Phoenix AZ (08/01/07)
In November 2004 I purchased a new 2005 Saturn Relay van. As part of the purchase I was offered a choice between a $1000 rebate or an extended warranty through Saturn. I chose the warranty. The warranty was called the Saturn Service Plan and was actually administered by Saturn. In June 2007 I tranded the Saturn for a new Ford F-150. The Saturn warranty still had a ways to go before it expired. I called to cancel the warranty and get a refund. Saturn refused, saying that I did not pay for the warranty, the dealer did. I contacted Saturn of Tucson and informed them. They requested the refund, recieved it, and refused to give it to me. They said that I didn't pay for the warranty, so I wasn't entitled to a refund. The fact that I had passed on a substantially rebate in lieu of the warranty didn't change their tune. This is a deceptive, shady practice. I have purchased 4 NEW Saturns since 2001. I will NEVER purchase another.
Debbie of Billerica MA (07/24/07)
I have a 2003 Vue..my transmission has failed and I just found out this is a test transmission. They do not even use it any more. My warrenty was for 75,000 miles but i have 78,000. My question is should I have been informed that my transmission was only a trial. I have not had my car for 2 weeks fighting with Saturn and just found out about trial transmission. Do I have a case?? Its only 4 years old...any help would be helpfull. Thanks
Sharon of Campbellsberg IN (07/22/07)
I bought a new Saturn Coupe in 2001. It got an intake manfold gasket leak and they were going to charge me as much to fix it as they would have given me on trade in so I bought a used 2002 Saturn Vue. Now it is losing coolant somewhere. I smell it inside the cab and the low coolant light came on. I never put in antifreeze since I got it but a mechanic told me it has two different kinds of coolant in it so this problem may have existed before I bought it.
Tonya-Denise of Yonkers NY (07/09/07)
While driving my 2000 Saturn LS2 home from work, after picking up my daughter, I came to a stop at a traffic light. I was the first car at the light, ahead of many cars on a busy highway during rush hour traffic. When the light changed to green, I put my foot on the accelerator to take off. The car started to take off but then a loud whirring noise came from under the hood. I was surprised to find my car had lost power and I was coasting down the road. I immediately turned on my hazard lights and began to make my way off the highway. I almost didn’t make it, as some drivers didn’t want to let me over but continued to honk their horns at me. I finally made my way off the road to get my daughter and I out of harm's way. I had the HELP truck come; only to find out he said it sounded as if my timing belt had broke.
David of Mountlake Terrace WA (07/09/07)
Approximately three years ago, I purchased a new Saturn SC2. This car has been very well taken care of with respects to oil/fluid changes, diagnostics, etc. Yesterday, I got into the car and when I placed it into drive, heard and felt a very loud CLUNK. With each gear that the car shifted into the clunk remained. From nowhere the transmission had failed. Because of my past customer service experiences with Saturn of Lynnwod WA. taking the car to that dealer was out of the question. This is my second Saturn and my last. The customer service and dependability that was present fifteen years ago has vanished. Here is a short list of items that have failed on this new SC2. 1) Left front wheel squeaks. (This is after tire and brake changes.) 2) At times it is virtually impossible to remove the key from the ignition. Twice the column has locked the key in place making the car undriveable. 3) At times you can start the car and then remove the key from the ignition while the car is in drive. 4) AC/Heater fan ticks on every setting. 5) Right front door speaker pops/crackles. (Intermittently) 6) Front right passenger seatbelt seized making it impossible to use. This little failure cost me over $300. 7) The console hinges failed allowing the console lid/top to fall off. 8) The alternator failed. 9) Front left door hinge makes a loud popping noise when the door is opened or shut. Keep in mind, this car is three/four years old.
Connie of Santee CA (06/10/07)
Moments ago I submitted a complaint and need to add. I did not purchase this car at Saturn of El Cajon. I only had it towed there to be fixed. I bought it thru a car service connected to the Navy Federal Credit Union in Santee, Calif. Just thought I should state this fact. thank you.
Paul of Spartanburg SC (05/29/07)
Air conditioning is kickin gin and out. First trip in they say it is a faulty module and replace module. Works fine for 2-3 weeks and then starts kicking in and out again, They then (after keeping for 2 solid days and after consulting with Saturn in Tenn.) they decide to tell me that it is what it should do and is part of their conservation program. Go ahead and blow hot air up my ass ! I may be a woman, but I am married to one of THE BEST RANKED engineers in SC. Big Mistake SATURN ! We aquired printouts from company that are a piece of CRAP ! They refuse to do anymore work on car and say that all GMC vehicles have the same program....funny....we have been since test drving MANY GMC vehicles with no such PROBLEM!!! Explain please....
Juan of Whittier CA (05/28/07)
I bought a 2004 Saturn Vue the car has only 54,444 miles and is already falling apart engine misfiring the front feels like is falling apart is I only bought toyotas before and try to help the american auto makers but I will never never never buy a GM car again.
Tina of Boise ID (05/02/07)
I bought an 04 ION the first problem I noticed was I had to always wiggle the switch to get the car to start. It was irritating because the problem started at about 30,000 miles. But I dealt with it until it started getting cold to the point where my car just wouldn't start at all. I bought a new battery and after a couple weeks an cold weather the same problem. So I called the dealership told the service man what was going on he told me it would be 280 just to tell me what was wrong with it. I said I don't have that it's Christmas next week...he said well try wrapping a blanket or putting a heater thing in your car and told me he had heard that a lot of people were having the same problem. BUT that's not where my biggest problem with Saturn is.
My problem is from 01/04/07 I dosed off at the wheel of my car I woke up right before I hit a semi on the freeway. I had just enough time to swerve but still clipped the back of his truck breaking his tail light and scratching his bumper but it sent my car flipping 3 times, said the guy behind me. My air bags did NOT deploy I hit the truck going at least 85 on the freeway. Thankfully I was wearing my seatbelt. I have a bulging disc between L4 and L5 isn't Saturn partially reliable for their safety features not working when I needed them most? I'm 26 I've played soccer and snowboarded and always really active I have a gorgeous daughter that if I pick her up I will be in pain the next day. What if my airbags worked maybe all I would have had would have been a the cut on my neck from the seatbelt? The frame of the car though, I must say I was impressed by it.
Jimae of Endicott NY (04/28/07)
My husband and I are on our third used Saturn from this dealership. For the most part, we've had good service and only a couple of the problems people have mentioned. My complaint is more about their financing process than anything. Still, my 1995 Saturn, purchased in 1999, had issues with the transmission inexplicably reving at around 30 mph and then slamming into gear.
I tried several times to describe this to the dealership service department, but their answer was always the same: could not duplicate customer complaint. The car had over 140,000 miles on it when I traded it in for a 2004 Ion 2, and was in great condition but they only gave me $500 for trade. I always worried that the transmission was going to go. It also burned off a lot of oil and once the temperature gauge went up so fast that I pulled it over and went for help. The dealer told me that it was common for the gaskets to allow oil burnoff at this mileage and that I should keep extra oil in my trunk.
I had to replace oil at a quart every 300 miles or so, and constantly had to worry that it would die on me. Our 2001 Saturn SL2 sedan had the key ignition sticking problem. We could always jimmy it just the right way to get it to turn, and the key never refused to come out, but it did cause me to be late for work one day and my husband had to come home to help me because I couldn't get the thing to turn.
Last month when the car was in for inspection, the dealership changed the ignition without our permission or prior notification, even though my husband spoke with them earlier in the day and they did not mention it at all. They said the key would not turn, and they charged us $10 in parts and labor. I wonder now if that is because they are aware of the problem and didn't want any trouble. I understand this problem can cost hundreds to fix. THey also gave us a new key and said ours was worn.
I will make a copy of this of a different metal and see if it makes a difference. We've only had the 2004 Ion for a month, and already the transmission revs at 30 mph randomly and shifts hard from 2nd to 3rd gear. I haven't taken it in yet, and am afraid to do so. The financing issue came with this purchase. I have poor credit, so we asked them to work the numbers with me alone, with both of us, and with my husband alone.
They insisted that the credit score came out higher with both of us on the note and that they had run it with several different banks to check this. We ended up paying over 9% and they refused to run it with just my husband, insisting that my credit would be repaired faster if I'm on it too. They also failed to tell us that the bank that finally picked it up insisted on a mandatory 5-year, 100,000 mile warranty (that's 100,000 in addition to the 28,500 already on the car). I was not told this on the phone and not until I asked why the price went up so far from the advertised one.
The warranty cost us $1200. The worst part is that after we came home, we ran my husband's credit score and found it to be almost 800 and excellent. There was also a notation that Saturn checked into financing, as they told us, but with ONLY ONE BANK, the one that happened to pick up the financing. Chase Bank. So, they lied to us in telling us that they farmed our numbers out to several different banks and selected the best deal for us.
I am extremely upset that they lied to us, and now we are stuck with an overpriced car that isn't worth what we owe and may have problems in the future. I feel cheated, and we are considering dumping both of our Saturns on a single hybrid or Toyota Yaris to save on mileage. I will never buy another Saturn and will tell anyone I know to avoid them like the plague.
They prey on unsuspecting buyers and are dishonest in their practices. I hope someone sues the pants off them and we all benefit. GM is going under, and I can see why.
Debra of Mustang OK (04/25/07)
After reading all the other comments on this website about the lockup of the sterring colum and the key getting stuck, I am very concerned for my safety. On April 20, 2007, I started my 2001 Saturn SC2 and backed out of my garage. I noticed that all the dash warning lights stayed on. I turned off the car and went in the house to finish getting ready for work. When I went back to the car and started it, everything was fine. I drove to work with no problem.
At the end of the day, I started my car and it did not turn over like it usually did, but did start. I traveled to a store,and turned the car off. When I got back to the car, I could not start it. It was like I was out of gas and I noticed the gas gauge was way below empty. It was not out of gas though, as I had a half tank of gas. After several attempts, which included jiggling the key and sterring wheel several times, which I have had to do since day one, I got the car started. I immediately went to my mechanic. They diagnosed the car as having a broken steering colum!
The rods were bent inside the column. They asked me if I had an accident and I told them that I don't even have a ticket let alone an accident with the car. They have no idea how the steering column got this way and feel that the defect has been there since I bought it when it was brand new. They found a steering column from a junkyard! They said that Saturn would rape me as they are very proud of their name!
They also had to install a different key cylinder with a different key and get the magnet inside the key programmed. They STILL are not done with the repairs and I am looking at a $600.00 plus repair! The stories I have read on this site tonight have prompted me and my husband to get me another car this weekend. My Saturn is paid off so I can hopefully trade it in. I live in Oklahoma and always drive the interstate at speeds of 55 to 65 MPH. If the steering column locked up on me....I would be seeing my mother in heaven! Please Please help all of us and start a class action lawsuit.
Lillie of Rutledge TN (04/24/07)
My Relay keeps cupping tires, i have already had one set replaced, now 2 more are damaged & have been replaced, yes this thing is still under warranty. I guess I am wearing out tires at about 6-8 thousand miles. The moding had to be replaced because it looked molded. The seat belts tering again so they are replacing it. They know there is a problem with my starter, but they have no soultion to the solve the problem, YET! The van kept getting stuck in Park, I mean this happend to me over 30 times, finally they replaced something, thats when the starter started acting up.
My sliding door got jammed & had to have the entire guts replaced, my list of problems are too long to write, I am upset, mad, & tired to running to the dealership, they have tried to fix it, but it still remains a lemon, we hate it & don't trust it, however we have so much in it, what do we do? I contacted Saturn today, the lady called today & said she was sorry, but that they are not sure they can trade my van for one thats not a lemon, i don't think i am asking for much, a used 2005 relay like mine in all ways, (color not important)but a better one than i have now. She was not assuring to me at all, i will never buy another GM. I know there are goo ones & bad one in every make, however this is crazy, at this rate, I will have 1000.00 a year cost in tires alone, not to mention all the other problems.
Carla of Burlington NJ (04/07/07)
i purchased a 2003 saturn ion from saturn of bordentown. the first year i purchased the vehicle,which was april 2003, i had to take my vehicle back for several recalls. then i started taking it for the lever to the front hood kept coming off inside the car. it has been repaired at saturn twice. i recently went through inspection for the first time, i failed because again the lever inside the car that opens the hood came off.
i called saturn ,they said i would have to pay a 100 dollar deductible to have it repaired again. i tried to explain to bill givens, that ive had it repaired there twice while under warranty. I was told theres nothing else he could do. i then called corporate and tried talking with them , but of course they sided with their company.if i had know about all these people who had problems with saturns i would of never bought one. i purchased a new vehicle because i didnt want the headache. but it looks like i got even a bigger one.
i have 45 days to get this repair done and it wont be at saturn because apparently they dont know much about fixing cars
Pat of Somerset NJ (03/14/07)
Like many of you, the 2003 Saturn Vue my wife and I purchased kept losing power and dying. We were told by Saturn that they didn't know what the problem wss and kept giving us back the car when they couldn't find the problem.
At one point they had the car for over 2 weeks and they then said it was fixed. It was only a matter of time before the problem started happening again.
The car once died in the middle lane of the New Jersey Turnpike with my 2 month old daughter in the car. it was towed to one of their dealerships in South Jersey and we were told it was fixed. A month and a half later it was put on a flatbed and being brought back to the dealer again.
We'll see what they have to say, thanks for your input I am going to bring up the many problems I have seen here.
Missy of Sun Prairie WI (03/13/07)
I have had non-stop problems with my 2005 Saturn Ion. I have had to take it in for each problem multiple times before they finally admit there is a probblem and exchange a part. I was sent out 2 times without brake lights.
I reported it to the Corporate office, which I was told it wasuser error. I am not sure how brake user error occurs, you either have your foot on thebrake or you do not. I have taken it in multip,le times now for my key sticking in my ignition.
They have already changed 2 parts and refuse to admit that it is stilll not fixed. I am reporting them to the WI BBB this time if no action is taken. They tell me this time it is user error and that I am not turning the car off before taking th e key out, weird.
I have missed numerous hours of work over the past 2 years with having to bring my car iin so many times. My warranty is about up and al lI can do with the car is let it sit until the lease is up so that I will not have to pay for all the problems out of my pocket, since we know that thereis going to be problems looking at the track record for the car.
Andrea of Chesapeake Beach MD (03/05/07)
Watch your brake and tail lights if you have a Saturn 2002 L-series sedan! I have had at least a half dozen people stop me in traffic or a parking lot to tell me my tail lights are out. When I changed the bulbs, I noticed scorch marks on one of the sockets, as well as an improper fit with the replacement bulb.
As it turns out, there is a recall (GM Recall No. 05052)- your Saturn dealer is obligated to replace two new tail lamp reinforcing socket adapters and sockets free of charge. See the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for more information. While you're talking with NHTSA, you may want to have them check into your rear center and passenger seat belt anchors- turns out they are defective in 22,000 2002-2004 Saturn L-series. I know I wouldn't want to have a childseat fastened in by those shoddy belts.
Also, check your brakes regularly- this is my second Saturn, and both vehicles have chewed up rotors like no other car I have ever driven. I have been advised by several mechanics that the only way to stave this off is to buy the most expensive rotors avilable, but I have my doubts that a higher priced part is the answer. The most disturbing problem by far though has been the accelerator sticking. The car revvs up for no good reason, whether my foot is on the gas or not. It's like being stuck in a possessed death trap.
Luckily I expereinced this problem while parked, but I can only imagine what could have happened if I had been on the freeway around DC. No mechanic yet has been able to figure it out, and Saturn denies any knowledge of this mechanical issue in it's 2002 L-series cars. I've been doing some reading since, and I'm not the only one with this problem, but evidently Saturn doesn't feel compelled to classify the accelerator issues alongside the known timing chain failures.
I feel I was swindled when I bought this car, and I am never buying another Saturn again! It is irresponisble of Saturn to release defective and dangerous vehicles on an unknowing public. I do not feel safe driving this vehicle any longer, but unfortunately I can not get rid of it due to my remaining loan balance. Thank God I only have $6K left to pay this thing off before I scrap it.
Lynda of Sanford FL (03/02/07)
On Saturday, February 17th I called Saturn about my 04 Saturn ION. Early that morning as my daughter was returning from work 1.5 away the coolant light came on. After examining the car inside and out I could not detect anything wrong - thinking it might be the water pump I called Saturn and being the car was under warranty was towed on a flat bed to Saturn of Orlando after contacting GMC Roadside Assistance.
About an hour and a half later Ty called me wanting to do all this maintenance work. I asked him to find out what was wrong with the car and to go ahead and change the oil since it was due. That was about 12:30 pm. I received a call back from Ty about 3:30pm telling me the car had been in an accident. I said yes about 2.5 years ago during the hurricanes, but there was no mechanical damage at the time.
He then said the car had a crushed coolant sustem. I got off the phone and asked my daughter if she had hit anything or ran over anything in the road. She stated that she hadn't. Ty had told me they were closing soon and that I needed to call my insurace co and place a claim. I told him we had no accident so how could I place a claim.
Anyway, on Monday my daughter and I went down to Saturn and sure enough the car had been in an accident and it didn't just have a crushed AC component but also alot of body damage, under carriage had been riped out on the right side of the car. I went into the office and asked Ty who wrecked the car and that it was not wrecked when it left the house on the flatbed and I had 5 witnesses who were out there with me to prove it. I was under the car, under the hood with my father and mother, then my sister and niece and my neighbor.
He then tried to blame it on the tow truck driver and it was not Saturn's problem. So I went home called my insurace agent and also GMC Roadside Assistance who placed a report of damage. On Tuesday, an investigator from GMC called and said he had interviewed both the driver and Ty. Stories didn't mesh. The tow truck driver stated the car was without incident, not wrecked when left the house and delivered to Saturn. He then stated that there were cameras all around the loading bay that could contest to that.
The conclusion of the investigation was that Saturn had wrecked the car. I went back down there and took pictures of the car and the damage. To me and others it looks like the damage was caused by the lift. The damage is only to the right side of the car and goes back about 3 feet of what I can tell, it took out the undercarriage, busted the bumper, hit the right corner of the radiator and destroyed the AC component.
Apparantly they weren't as smart as they thought because they laid the broken undercarriage pieces back under the car so they fell at our feet on the lift. I now have them. It is now under investigation with my insurance company and it has been two weeks. I refuse to talk with Ty again and I can't move the car from Saturn of Orlando because of the investigation. I just don't know what to do next and I can't believe they would get away with this. If weren't for the extensive damage to the bumper and undercarriage he might of gotten away with this
We continue to make car payments while this investigation is going on not to speak of the loss in value on the car.
Patty of Easley SC (02/25/07)
Saturn of Birmingham, Alabama: Our 2000 Saturn LS broke down on the interstate out of our home state, because the timing belt broke and destroyed the motor. The ONLY compensation offered was a new engine for half the price of $4,000 and a customer loyalty amount of $750 toward another car (this was through Saturn Customer Assistance), plus whatever promotions and trade in the local Saturn dealership offers
Chevrolet of Tuscaloosa, Alabama: After they diagnosed the problem, they said they did not have the tools to fix the timing belt. Then they did not explain the whole problem and did NOT offer any other services or assistance.
We had to pay 2 tow bills: one of $100 to get the car to Chevrolet of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and one of $200 to get the car from Chevrolet to Saturn of Birmingham, Alabama.
Tim of Indian Trail NC (02/25/07)
In 2003 I bought a 2001 Saturn L200 and have had several problems with the vehicle and the dealer. Dispite having completed the 2003 recall replacement work, the vehicle suffered a power steering rack failure, a bad CV joint, a fuel arm failure, an ignition control module failure and a broken catalytic converter. All of this repair work cost far more at the dealer than at a local licensed mechanic and none of it was covered by warranty.
Christina of Salem WI (02/19/07)
I drive a 2002 Saturn L200 and have had experienced the same problem as Dori has. It started approximately one year ago. I was traveling towards the northern Chicago suburbs on the interstate during rush hour traffic. I felt like the engine was on auto pilot and took my foot off the accelerator.
When I did, the car did not slow down. I tapped the brakes and the engine revved close to 4000 RPM's. I was in the right lane so, I was able to get it pulled to the side of the road, shifted into neutral, and shut the car off. I waited for a tow truck and had it towed to a local Saturn dealership. They told me that the car needed an engine control module, a new throttle plate, and my transaxle pan gasket needed replacing. I authorized the repairs to be done with the exception of the engine control module.
In December 2006, my accelerator stuck again while driving however, this time it popped back up. I took into my local Saturn dealership on December 19th and they told me that my floor mat was stuck underneath my accelerator. A week later I took it into the same Saturn dealership complaining of the same problem, they told me that they did not have time to look at it but, I could leave it overnight and pay for a rental car at my own expense so, they could look at it. I decided to take the car to a GM dealership instead.
The car was in that GM dealership three separate times in two weeks after that for the same acceleration issue. The first time was January 16th and they cleaned my throttle body.
The second was January 24th and the tech replaced the throttle cable.
The third time it went into the GM dealership, my initial problem (the accelerator staying down, engine revving, and pulling over to the side of the road) occurred again. The previous two times it went to the GM dealership, the accelerator was staying down but, it would pop back up.
After the third time, I immediately took it to the GM dealership again and because they could not recreate the problem they were unable to do anything about it. On February 1st, I took the car to a third repair shop (and the second Saturn dealership) for the same issue. The service consultant told me that the engine control module needed replacing and the throttle plate was warped.
I authorized the repairs and had the car back several days later. This morning, I was driving into work and the accelerator stuck on me yet again. I took it to the same dealership that replaced the throttle plate. I was told that if they could not “recreate the problem� that they cannot repair it and that I would “just have to live with it�. In total, I have had the transaxle pan gasket replaced, the throttle cable replaced, the throttle body cleaned, the engine control module replaced, and the throttle plate replaced and the dealership still does not know what the problem is.
I have spent approximately five hundred dollars in repairs so far. The warranty company covered the throttle plate (four hundred dollars) and now, I am not sure if they will authorize any other repairs for the same issue. I am scared to death to drive this car. At times, the idea of driving the car has made my physically ill.
Christine of Encino CA (02/13/07)
I have a Saturn 2005 Relay and have had nothing but problems. A loud groaning noise coming from the front and rear of the vehicle. The noise has gotten so loud that the car and my infants carseat will vibrate. Very scary and yet they say they fix it, tell me it's safe to drive and the noise comes back. I have filed the Lemon Law after the fifth attempt to fix the problem.
The relay is a 7 passenger vehicle with room for 2 kids and all of the bags and strollers that go with them. Saturn has put me in a Ford Focus rent-a-car. Nice aren't they. They have had the car for this sixth time for over a week and have replaced 2 parts and are re-replacing a part(wheel bearings, axle, gear kit, stearing column). Saturn told me the vehicle SHOULD be safe to drive but all of the parts they are replacing are not little parts. Saturn says they are working with me. Yeah right.
Dori of Carol Stream IL (02/11/07)
On Thursday, February 8, 2007, I was stopped at a stoplight on North Aurora Road in Naperville. When the light turned green, I accelerated to go through the intersection. At that time, the car revved up to 6000 RPM and went from 0-40 MPH. I checked to see if the accelerator was stuck. It was not. I tried applying the brakes, but nothing happened.
I knew that if I did not get the car stopped soon, I would either hit the cars ahead of me or run through a red light at the next intersection. So, I saw a road off to the right and decided that I had to make that turn, even going at 40 MPH. As soon as I turned, I was able to get the car in neutral and pull the keys to stop the car. I had the car towed to a garage where the mechanic said he thought it was dirty throttle plates and he fixed the car and returned it to me.
Upon picking the car up, and driving it the roughly 5 miles home, the car behaved normally. That is, until I pulled it into the garage and put it in park. The engine revved again to 3000 RPMs. My husband witnessed this. Needless to say, the car is being taken back to the mechanic to have him look further into it. I am afraid to get into the car.
Tammie of Waterbury CT (01/31/07)
I bought a 2003 Saturn Ion in July of 03. Since then the car has failed to start after several attempts, mostly in the cold weather but it has happened in warm weather as well. When this happens it takes anywhere from 10- 30 minutes before the car will start, this is a huge inconvenience when I'm sitting in a freezing cold car that won't start. This situation usually goes like this: I turn the key and the car will not turn over (as if the battery is low, but this isn't the case). I wait a few minutes the same thing happens or worse, no sound at all. After waiting about 10 minutes I try again, if I'm lucky it will start, if not, the process starts all over again until it starts. Once it starts, the car is fine. I reported this to the Saturn dealer that I bought it from, but I didn't receive much help.
This has caused a big inconvenience to me and has wasted much time. I had not replaced anything in my car because I thought it was an isolated problem. After researching this on the web, I found out that I am not alone. I'm afraid this will happen at a time when I cannot get help or the car will not start at all leaving me stranded. Further more, I should not have to deal with any type of issue like this when it clearly is the manufacturers fault. I want to have my car taken back or replaced with a different vehicle
Angela of Antioch CA (01/30/07)
sold me a vechicle with major brake problem, could haved cause my life.And repeitedly call them and told them my brake were making noise over and over and they inored me. The car has contaimainted brakes and totally the whole right front the brakes are frozen and the car could have came apart the front brake system and I could have been in a major car accident.
Now, I'am in a frenzzie to get into that car again. Very, very, scared they gave me a car without inspection and after three weeks they also had been contacted by motor vechicle to have the car smog,to the dealorship,they didn't even do that. Also,when I, when to purchase the car I, didn't have an option to choose the choosed the car for me only. The loan or car lenders are very concern with this issue. They stated that I, should have gotten to choosed my own like of a car and that this is not right what going on.
Joseph of West Paterson NJ (01/27/07)
My wife was driving on the highway when the vehicle just shut down, lost all power. Fortunally, she was able to pull to the side of the road and call for help.
The damage to the car was a broken timing chain that also damaged the valves and pistons. The car is a 2002 Saturn L200 with only 39,000 miles. The cost so far has been $2,800 with more to come. We've contacted the Saturn dealership we purchased the car at immedately and after a month we still have not heard from them.
Tanya of Jacksonville Beach FL (01/23/07)
I have a 2002 sl2, I had started to experience the ignition lock problem. The assembly had been fixed prior to me owning the car, per the shop notes. I got a new key cut from the dealer and it works now.
Dorian of Austin TX (01/22/07)
We purchased a brand new 2003 Saturn Vue in November of 2003. Immediately after the warranty expired at 36K miles, the horn/airbag unit malfuntioned and caused the horn to burn out and the relay to melt. The car was parked outside one day when the horn began blaring. I ran outside and tried to find a way to shut it off, but was unable to find a way.
From browsing multiple online forums and speaking with other Vue owners, this is a common design flaw in the '03 Vue. GM designed the horn and airbag as one unit. The horn activator buttons are located in the center of the steering wheel, over the airbag, and it takes quite a bit of pressure in a specific location in order to activate them. Just over the airbag, under the steering wheel cover, is a copper plate that covers the airbag and horn wiring.
Because the horn buttons are so difficult to activate, that copper plate becomes deformed over time, causing the horn to be activated on its own. I must reiterate here - this is a well-documented problem inherent in '03 Vues. Despite the problem being on Saturn's end, the dealership and Saturn customer service have refused to warranty the repair or generate a recall and state the entire airbag unit has to be replaced to the tune of $800 (part alone) plus labor.
I have repeatedly tried to mediate with Saturn but have been refused at every attempt or sent on wild goose chases to other departments. Because I can't afford the $800, I will now have to drive without a horn until I can save up the money to have it replaced, effectively putting myself and my passengers in harm's way.
I have been unable to get an inspection sticker as a result of the horn being faulty and day-to-day driving in the Vue is a hazard as a result. Saturn has stated I will have to cough up the $800+ to have the airbag replaced.
Greg of Kettering OH (01/18/07)
I have owned my Saturn for six years. In that time; Blown speaker during the first year. Sticky trunk latch; trunk won't close every time, = dented trunk from the boy at the grocery store repeatedly slamming it trying to get it to latch. Replaced turn signal / multi-function switch <30000 miles. (Local garage, $250) Replaced Brakes < 35000 miles Replaced tail light assembly and some wiring (Local garage after Saturn dealer said it's not the same problem as the recall) $200 Replaced water pump < 40000 miles (Went out on the way to work with no prior warning lights or noise) Local garage, $350 Replaced brakes appx 50000 miles Replaced Engine Computer <55000 miles (Local garage, appx $1000 + 3 weeks; Saturn kept sending them the wrong part) Replaced Timing Belt / Gear appx 55000 miles (Saturn dealer, $1200) Replaced Computer <60000 miles (Saturn dealer, no charge for part... previous one still under warranty.) Replaced brakes, 10 months after the last brakes.
Replaced Engine (cracked head) Still no final cost. Replaced Heater core, radiator, hoses, thermostat (Damaged due to oil in the coolant from the cracked head) Still no cost. Saturn says the online reports of continuous problems with cracked heads are about a different engine. New engine started immediately, ran flawlessly for 3 days, then decided not to start any more... Replace Ignition Control Module (Still no cost; Saturn dealer convinced local garage that the ICM is 'probably OK'; local garage has spent 3 weeks checking everything else.) Dealer says ICM recall does not apply to this engine. I have changed the oil regularly, I keep it in a garage 90% of the time when I'm home. I have the radiator flushed every 2 years. I armor-all the interior and wash and wax the exterior at least once a month. I take care of my vehicle.
I bought a Saturn because it was a different kind of car, a different kind of company. It has been the worst vehicle I have ever owned. I am writing this simply to blow off some steam. This past weekend, my first grandchild was born. I have been unable to see him, because my Saturn has been in the shop constantly for the past month as a result of the latest round of catastrophic failures. My rental car is for local driving only; I never imagined it would take so much time and money and troubleshooting to fix the Saturn again.
I was unable to fly out to see him, because the cost of the rental car is bleeding me of all extra income. So forgive me for whining, but I just didn't feel I should have to pump another $1500 (so far) into this car without letting someone know just how disappointing this vehicle has been since it was new. Good day
Eustace of Dix Hills NY (01/11/07)
I placed an order for a Saturn Sky April 29, 2006 leaving a $1000.00 holding fee. They indicated the if might take up to 6 months for delivery. On January 5, 2007 I inquired about delivery. I was told that although the order was sent there was no way of knowing when the automobile would be delivered. I requested my $1000.00 fee back and it was credited to my American Express account. I asked I the fee was in an interest bearing account. No one could tell me if this was the case.
Sharmayne of Magalia CA (01/03/07)
I am currently getting ready to replace a waterpump on my 1996 Saturn wagon. I bought it used well over a year ago. When I bought the car, it seemed to be in great shape except for a small hole in the muffler, and a driver window which is very slow to automatically go up and down.especially in the winter.
The gas gauge did not work..(but I did find out that if I completely run out of gas this will reset the gas gauge, and save alot of money!) Also, it seems to go through the oil like it is dying of thirst in the middle of the desert! Strange...Other than that...I must say..That my Saturn has never broke down on me..as of yet (knock on wood, quick!) And has been a great gas saver compared to my T-Bird I was driving around. I have to say that I do just love my car and hope to high heaven that the water pump can easily be replaced by my boyfriend. I read that it is pretty simple to change. Ha Ha Ha...will see.
I have had several different cars, and all seem to have their little quirks. So, I just thought I would say my experience with the Saturn, even with it's little problems has been quite wonderful. (knock on wood again please!)
Kim of Fairfield CA (12/27/06)
In 2003, I purchased a new Saturn Ion from the Fairfield Saturn dealership. On several occasions, I requested that the vehicle be checked as it was making a noise from the undercarriage. As I am not a mechanic , I explained that the noise sounded as if it were coming from the transmission, but would like the vehicle to be checked.
On all occasions, I was informed that the mechanics were unable to locate any issues. The vehicle is now three years old and making the same noise. I took the vehicle to the Fairfield Saturn dealership to request an oil change. I was contacted and informed that the car was clunking. After inspection, the mechanic identified that the sway bar needed to be replaced.
I informed the supervisor that I had made previous complaints about the vehicle making noises while the car was under warranty,and I suggested that the repair should be covered by the dealership, as they should have discovered the issue previously. The service manager informed me that his records indicated that I had informed him that the transmission was making a humming sound, rather than a clunking sound and therefore he would not repair the car as a warranty item. The service manager claims that according to his records, no request has been made regarding a clunking sound. He acknowledges a humming sound complaint. The service manager based his decison on his perspective of the terminology of the noise, as described in his records, although his records are not even reflective of the fact that my vehicle consistently utilizes synthetic oil, and has since the purchase.
This oversite in his records led to the incorrect oil being placed in my vehicle on a previous oil change. Please note that within the consumer comlaint section, on your website, there is a customer complaint of noises in a Saturn Ion. The rack and pinion was faulty. Thank you for you assistance in this matter.
Megan of Basom NY (12/11/06)
i purchased a saturn VUE 2006 on July 3rd of 06' (had 6 miles on it) since then it has gone in 4 times for service..the 1st time was for a humming noies coming from the back end, they replaced the univeral and rear diff, the second time they replaced the same things but on the otherside, the 3rd time they replaced the whole drive line, and diff in the front along with struts on the left side, it is currently in for repairs today, i have filed a complaint and i am having a hard time getting a hold of someone, i am not happy with my VUE i think i was sold a faulty car!!! so far saturn has only offered to fix it and i am not satified with that i want to know what my options from a legal standpoit are.. PLEASE SEND HELP!! i want to feel secure and safe in a NEW car, not annoyed,mad and unsafe!! i have a 10month old son, and concerned for his safety that is why i bought a VUE for the so-called five star safety rating
Amy of Omaha NE (11/26/06)
While driving my sick child and mother home from a doctor's appointment, my 2000 Saturn LS1 lost all power almost causing an accident. I was able to pull the car over to the side of the road and after several attempts to start the vehicle, had it towed home. Two days later I had the car towed to a mechanic, only to find that the timing chain broke and that the engine needed replaced.
This car has only 68,000 miles and was in great condition. I am unable to get the engine replaced due to the cost. I still owe $1500.00 on my loan and had to pay ou |
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