Saturn problems
The Saturn Corporation, also known as Saturn LLC, was an American automobile manufacturer, a registered trademark established on January 7, 1985, as a subsidiary of General Motors. The company was an attempt by GM to compete directly with Japanese imports and transplants, initially in the US compact car market. The company was known for its 'no-haggle' sales technique.
Saturn marketed itself as a "different kind of car company" and operated quasi-independently from its parent company,—comprehensively introducing a new car, dealer network, pricing structure, workforce and independently managed manufacturing plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee. The first cars themselves launched five years after the company's inception, and they advanced GM's spaceframe construction—manifesting Saturn's market proposition with their dent-resistant polymer exterior panels.
Over time, as Saturn drained resources from GM's extensive brand network and as GM struggled with the 2008 economic collapse, the parent company curtailed Saturn's development budgets — leaving Saturn to badge engineer products from other divisions, notably a series of federalized models from Opel. With this, Saturn gradually lost its unique selling proposition, and the market lost interest. Annual sales achieved their highest level in 1994, with 286,003 vehicles marketed.
Following a failed attempt by Penske Automotive to acquire Saturn from GM in September 2009, Saturn ended production in October 2009, ended outstanding franchises in October 2010, and ceased operations 25 years after it began.
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Saturn models
Common Saturn problems
Based on the complaints from owners of Saturn cars, some common problems with Saturn models include transmission issues, poorly-made gas caps, power steering problems, A/C malfunctions, wheel bearing failure, blown cooling fan fuse, ignition module failure, problems with direct injection injectors, and more.
- Transmission Issues: Saturn models are known to have transmission problems, which can lead to issues with shifting gears, slipping, or complete failure. These problems can be costly to repair and may result in a loss of power or drivability issues.
- Poorly-Made Gas Caps: Owners have reported issues with gas caps on Saturn cars, which can lead to fuel leaks, difficulty in refueling, or triggering the check engine light. This problem can impact fuel efficiency and emissions.
- Power Steering Problems: Saturn cars have been associated with power steering issues, such as stiff steering, fluid leaks, or complete power steering failure. These problems can affect the handling and safety of the vehicle.
- A/C Malfunctions: A common complaint among Saturn owners is A/C malfunctions, which can result in the air conditioning system not cooling properly or failing altogether. This can lead to discomfort while driving, especially in hot weather.
- Wheel Bearing Failure: Wheel bearing failure in Saturn models can cause noise, vibration, and uneven tire wear. This issue can affect the vehicle's stability and safety on the road.
- Blown Cooling Fan Fuse: Saturn cars may experience blown cooling fan fuses, leading to overheating of the engine. This can result in engine damage and potential breakdowns if not addressed promptly.
- Ignition Module Failure: Issues with the ignition module can cause starting problems, stalling, or engine misfires in Saturn vehicles. This can impact the reliability and performance of the car.
- Problems with Direct Injection Injectors: Saturn models with direct injection systems may encounter injector issues, leading to poor engine performance, rough idling, or fuel efficiency problems. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintain the vehicle's performance.
These common problems with Saturn cars highlight various issues that owners may face, impacting the reliability, performance, and overall driving experience of these vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to address these issues and ensure the longevity of Saturn cars.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Saturn models
We have analysed all the complaints filed against Saturn cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Saturn models:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Saturn brand.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Saturn models
We have also compiled a table for you with the number of complaints about specific models of Saturn cars:
Distribution of Saturn car problems by type
Based on an anlyse of all Saturn related complaints and concluded that the most common problems with Saturn cars are the following:
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
Below is a graph with statistics on all Saturn vehicle components and the number of complaints about them.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Saturn models
A total of 1010 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Saturn models
There were a total of 193 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Saturn models
There were a total of 862 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Saturn models
There were a total of 21 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
The NHTSA has received 14682 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Saturn Saturn. Below are 15 recent complaints about various Saturn models. In order to research complaints about a particular brand you need to select it from the list of available models above.
List of the last 15 complaints about Saturn models
Saturn Ion 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G8AJ52F45Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The ignition cylinder was replaced in my vehicle because the key would not turn in the ignition to start the car. It is actually, the fourth time this has happened. I understand that there have been two recalls on this issue in the past. The reason it was recalled is because the ignition has turned to the off position killing the car's engine while the driver is driving on the road which has caused serious accidents. I was lucky not to get into an accident from this. The last replacement has lasted almost ten years. However, my issue is that General Motors apparently keeps manufacturing a defective part. This is unacceptable because I had to pay $585.02 to have this work done due to the fact that the dealerships apparently are not required to replaced it at no charge to the vehicle owner. It could also be a potential safety issue again.
Saturn Aura 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G8ZS57B78F
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Aura. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became difficult to steer and did not function as intended. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with a failed electronic power steering assist module. The contact was informed that the electronic power steering assist module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that the recall NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V153000 (Steering) was previously completed on the contact's vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Saturn Ion 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G8AL55F57Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: It won’t start! Been having starter problems. Battery not dead, and I also was told maybe crankshaft and starter
Saturn Sky 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G8MB35BX7Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Air bag sensor warning, Was fixed under recall by previous owner sensor warning came back G.M was going to fix it again but was waiting for parts, I bought the car but I live in Ohio not the State I bought the in, I called the G.M dealer in Ohio and they told me I would have to pay for this same recall that the G.M dealer in the other State said they'd take care of it! It's an airbag problem with the sky's and solitise and should be covered by G.M! Thanks [XXX] ! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Saturn Ion 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G8AJ55F77Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While driving the car has issues with power steering when turning the wheel either direction the steering will lose power steering and jerk the opposite direction turning. I have almost been in numerous accidents now the worst going 75 on highway passing semi around a corner and it jerked and almost sent me right not the semi. This has happened numerous times as I was passing vehicles. Its not a steady no power steering it will do it out of the blue and anymore it's more times than not and again only when turning the wheel. It's scary. Our vin # isn't specified with the recall but has serious power steering issue. No warning lamps or anything like that. We have not had this vehicle inspected yet by a dealership. As far as the incident date it's not one specific date. It does this every day the car is driven.
Saturn Vue hybrid 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3GSDL63799S
- Components: SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: Stalls stops, with Engine power reduced, stabilitrak off. After turning or braking. Engine light with down arrow. Accident probability. DANGEROUS ESPECIALLY IF ON HIGHWAY OR COUNTRY RD!
Saturn Vue 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3GSDL63799S
- Components: SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: Stalls stops, with Engine power reduced, stabilitrak off. After turning or braking. Engine light with down arrow. Accident probability. DANGEROUS ESPECIALLY IF ON HIGHWAY OR COUNTRY RD!
Saturn Outlook 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5GZER23D39J
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Saturn Outlook. The contact stated that stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound and stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the timing belt had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under GM Campaign Number: 10287C since the campaign had expired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Saturn Aura 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G8ZS57N58F
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Key ignition don’t engaged when turning.
Saturn Vue hybrid 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3GSCL53779S
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Vehicle has lost power steering. Difficult to steer especially in reverse and sometimes in turning left. If wheels are not completely straight, you have turn with all the strength you can muster. Reluctant to turn left unless you have twice as much time as you should need to avoid an accident.
Saturn Vue 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3GSCL53779S
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Vehicle has lost power steering. Difficult to steer especially in reverse and sometimes in turning left. If wheels are not completely straight, you have turn with all the strength you can muster. Reluctant to turn left unless you have twice as much time as you should need to avoid an accident.
Saturn Ion 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G8AL52F03Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that less than a minute after starting the vehicle, the steering wheel seized. The contact stated that the vehicle lost power steering functionality, with the power steering failure message was displayed. The contact stated that after shifting to park(P), the contact would wiggle the key around in the ignition before being able to remove the key from the ignition switch. The vehicle had not been taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 111,350.
Saturn Ion 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G8AG52F63Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that occasionally the key failed to turn while in the ignition. The vehicle was slow to start. The contact had to avoid bumps in the roadway while driving. The lock symbol was displayed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 14V171000 (Electrical System) and 14V047000 (Air Bags, Electrical System); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who declined to service the recall repairs due to an insurance issue. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact called another unknown local dealer, who informed the contact to place the vehicle in park(P) and restart the vehicle, and the symbol turned off. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a claim and informed the contact that a technician would be sent to the residence, but the technician failed to show up. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Saturn Sky 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1G8MB35B37Y
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The parking brake does not engage at all even though the parking brake lever give resistance as normal and only lifts about 5 clicks from the bottom. the vehicle rolls when it is engaged as though it is not even pulled up. This is especially scary because it is a manual vehicle. Only hast 58,449 miles on it. No warning lamps. Have not had it looked at by a dealer or repair facility at this time
Saturn Vue 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3GSCL33P58S
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Alternator I changed the starter I changed the alternator brand new it ran but then it stopped in mid drive and I won't just start and that's how I crashed into something now my car is wreck in the fridge and it won't start and if it does it stops
Latest 5 Saturn recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 211 recalls involving various Saturn models.You can learn more about the model you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Saturn Sky 2007
- Report Received Date: 2017-01-26
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. The Passenger Air Bag Suppression System (PPS) sensor may become bent or damaged within the front passenger seat, possibly disabling the front passenger air bag.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the front passenger air bag does not deploy as intended, the front passenger has an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: The remedy for this recall is still under development. A permanent remedy is currently under development. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 17036.
- Model: Saturn Sky 2008
- Report Received Date: 2017-01-26
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. The Passenger Air Bag Suppression System (PPS) sensor may become bent or damaged within the front passenger seat, possibly disabling the front passenger air bag.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the front passenger air bag does not deploy as intended, the front passenger has an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: The remedy for this recall is still under development. A permanent remedy is currently under development. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 17036.
- Model: Saturn Sky 2009
- Report Received Date: 2017-01-26
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. The Passenger Air Bag Suppression System (PPS) sensor may become bent or damaged within the front passenger seat, possibly disabling the front passenger air bag.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the front passenger air bag does not deploy as intended, the front passenger has an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: The remedy for this recall is still under development. A permanent remedy is currently under development. The recall began February 26, 2018. Owners may contact Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 17036.
- Model: Saturn Astra 2009
- Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.
- Model: Saturn Astra 2008
- Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.
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