Saturn Astra problems
The Opel Astra is a compact car/small family car (C-segment) developed and produced by the German automaker Opel since 1991, currently at its sixth generation. It was first launched in September 1991 as a direct replacement to the Opel Kadett. As of 2022, the car slots between the smaller Corsa supermini and the larger Insignia large family car.
Initially, the Astra was available in hatchback, saloon, and estate (station wagon; known as the Astra Caravan, later the Sports Tourer) forms. A panel van (sedan delivery; Astravan) and a convertible (Astra Cabrio) also appeared in the early 1990s. These body styles were later followed by a coupé (the Astra GTC) in 2004, and the sporty Astra OPC appeared in 2005. The Twin Top retractable hardtop convertible replaced the soft top convertible in 2006, while the Caravan was renamed to Astra Sports Tourer since 2009.
The Astra is branded the Vauxhall Astra in the United Kingdom. It was rebadged and sold as the Saturn Astra in North America between 2008 and 2009, as the Buick Excelle XT from 2009 until 2015 and as the Buick Verano/Hatchback GS in China from 2015 until 2021. The Holden Astra was discontinued in Australia and New Zealand in 2009, and was replaced by the locally assembled Holden Cruze. It briefly returned to the Australian market in 2012, for the first time badged as an Opel, but was discontinued after Opel withdrew from the country a year later. In 2015, Opel reintroduced the Astra GTC and Astra VXR to Australia and New Zealand in 2015, again bearing the Holden badge. Between 2017 and 2019, the Astra nameplate was also used for the Holden version of the Cruze sedan.
After Opel was sold by General Motors to PSA Group, the Astra K continued to be produced under license until it was replaced by the Astra L. The Astra L was released after the merger of the company to form Stellantis.
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Saturn Astra model years
Common Saturn Astra problems
The Saturn Astra, a compact car produced by General Motors, has received mixed reviews from owners, with some praising its performance and handling, while others have reported a number of issues and problems. Here are some of the most common problems with the Saturn Astra, based on complaints from owners:
- Dead battery: Some Saturn Astra owners have reported having dead battery issues that dealers have been unable to fix. Four new batteries in one year is not an uncommon experience, with no clear solution to the problem.
- Poor engineering: The Saturn Astra has been described as poorly engineered, with many parts shared with BMW, but not designed or built to the same standards. This has led to issues with the engine, transmission, and other components, as well as poor overall reliability.
- Timing belt: The Saturn Astra uses a timing belt, which can be a major negative for some owners. The timing belt can be expensive to replace, and parts availability can be an issue, especially for older models.
- Weird ergonomics: Some owners have reported issues with the ergonomics of the Saturn Astra, including uncomfortable seating positions and poor visibility. This can make the car less enjoyable to drive, especially on long trips.
- Poor parts availability: Finding parts for the Saturn Astra can be difficult, especially for older models. This can make repairs more expensive and time-consuming, as parts may need to be sourced from Europe or other countries.
In summary, the Saturn Astra has received mixed reviews from owners, with some praising its performance and handling, while others have reported a number of issues and problems. Electrical issues, dead battery, poor engineering, timing belt, weird ergonomics, and poor parts availability are some of the most common problems reported by Saturn Astra owners.
How many miles will a Saturn Astra last?
Best Answer. They are no more worse than any of their counterparts. Some drivers have reported 150,000 or more miles of trouble free driving.
Is the Saturn Astra rare?
Unfortunately, the Astra came out at the wrong time — at the bitter end of the Saturn brand, and right before the recession — so it was canceled after just one model year (2008) with only a few thousand units sold.
Does a Saturn Astra have a timing belt?
This vehicle does have a timing belt. According to the Saturn normal service schedule for this vehicle, the belt is to be replaced at intervals of every 75,000 miles or every 10 years, whichever comes first. And not to exceed 100,000 miles between belt replacements.
When did they stop making Saturn Astra?
Former production vehicles
| Model | Timeline | |
|---|---|---|
| Started | Ended | |
| Outlook | 2007 | 2010 |
| Aura | 2007 | 2009 |
| Astra | 2008 | 2009 |
Percentage distribution of complaints by Saturn Astra years
We have researched Saturn problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Saturn Astra cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Saturn Astra model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Saturn Astra model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Saturn Astra years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Saturn Astra car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Saturn Astra , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Saturn Astra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Astra model years
A total of 5 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Astra model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Astra model years
There were a total of 7 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 161 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Saturn Astra . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Saturn Astra vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-22
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-09
- VIN: W08AR671385
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: My right headlight, kept going out. I couldnt get a sticker because the mechanic stated the headlight kept burning. He reground the right headlight so it could get energy from the battery. Currently, everything in the diagnostic of the car says low beam.
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-09
- VIN: W08AR671285
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I can't get in gear. Sometimes I can put it gear but after I have stopped and put it in park, it will not go into any gear so I get stuck. I am a senior and bought this second hand. It only has 47,000 miles on it. It appears it doesn't always go into park properly. This shift problem has been recalled on other cars of this make and model and I need it repaired as soon as possible. It happens all the time and I am afraid to drive it anywhere.
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-01
- VIN: W08at671985
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The car suffers from improper gear shifter issues. The gear shifter will not move into park properly, and has multiple times made the car slide after we leave the car. Car will not start unless gear is moved to Neutral many times. Looks like this is a similar problem to the one on Saturn Aura that has recalls on it for the same issue. Why is the Astra not covered under the recall?..,,
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-18
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-18
- VIN: W08ar671285
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I have received the recall and the dealership said they ordered the part and told me it was safe to drive till the part came in as they have ordered it. So then i had them put it in writing that it is safe to drive.I am asking why are they letting me drive this vehicle with this dangerous recall.
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-03
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-19
- VIN: W08AT671X85
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I BOUGHT THIS 2008 SATURN ASTRA XR USED IN 2014 FROM A CAR DEALERSHIP. WITHIN A FEW WEEKS I BEGAN HAVING PROBLEMS STARTING THE CAR. AND IT STALLED WHILE DRIVING. I TOOK IT TO MANY REPAIR SHOPS FOR DIAGNOSTICS AND REPAIRS BUT AFTER SPENDING HUNDREDS AND THEN THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS REPLACING VARIOUS PARTS AND COMPONENTS IT STILL CONTINUED HAVING THE SAME EXACT PROBLEMS THAT ALL THE GENIUS MECHANICS COULDN'T FIGURE OUT THE CAUSE. I SUSPECT THAT THE CAR DEALERSHIP SOLD ME A TRADE-IN CAR THAT WAS INVOLVED IN A WATER FLOOD DAMAGE SITUATION AND ALL OR MOST OF THE HIDDEN WIRING AND ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS WERE PROBABLY CORRODED AND RUSTED. BUT NONE OF THE GENIUS MECHANICS WHO WORKED ON MY CAR EVEN SUSPECTED THAT ALL THE PROBLEMS WITH MY CAR COULD'VE BEEN CAUSED BY WATER FLOOD DAMAGE. THEY JUST KEPT REPLACING MANY OLD PARTS WITH NEW PARTS AND CHARGING ME LOTS OF MONEY. PLEASE HELP ME FIND OUT OR FIGURE OUT IF MY CAR WAS INVOLVED IN A WATER FLOOD DAMAGE SITUATION THAT IS STILL CAUSING THESE STARTING PROBLEMS. IT TAKES ME 15 MINUTES TO OVER AN HOUR TO START THIS CAR EACH TIME FOR ALL THESE YEARS SINCE I BOUGHT IT USED IN 2014. TODAY IS FRIDAY 3-19-2021, THANK YOU
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-09
- Date Complaint: 2021-01-11
- VIN: W08AT671185
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 SATURN ASTRA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE AT A STANDSTILL, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS AWAITING A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 170,000.
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-04
- Date Complaint: 2019-12-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: W08AT671285
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ON 12/4/19 THE AIRBAG IN THE 08 SATURN ASTRA DEPLOYED WHILE I WAS DRIVING IT CAUSED ME TO RUN INTO THE DRIVEWAY BRICK WALK AND FENCING OF A NEIGHBORING HOUSE ADJACENT TO A LOT THAT I WAS PULLING OUT FROM. I SUFFERED MINOR BRUISES AND CUTS BUT HAVE A LOT OF NECK AND CHEST PAIN.. I'VE MADE THE COMPLAINT TO TAKATA AND INFORMED THEM THAT I PURCHASED THE CAR LAST MONTH FROM A USED CAR DEALERSHIP.. HOW DO I RECOUP FOR DAMAGES CAUSED BY THIS, I HAVE A SPECIAL NEEDS DAUGHTER AND I NEED MY TRANSPORTATION. THE CAR CAN'T START .
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-06
- Date Complaint: 2019-08-07
- VIN: W08AT271685
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKARA RECALL. I HAVE A 2008 SATURN ASTRA XR THAT I RECIEVED A RECALL LETTER FROM. WHERE DO I CONTACT TO HAVE THE PROBLEM RESOLVED?
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2019-07-16
- VIN: W08AT271285
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 SATURN ASTRA. WHEN THE CONTACT SWITCHED THE GEAR SHIFTER INTO THE DRIVE POSITION, THE TRANSMISSION INDICATOR ERRONEOUSLY DISPLAYED THAT THE SHIFTER WAS IN THE DRIVE #3 POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. BIG M CHEVROLET (704 N. DIXIE BLVD, RADCLIFF, KY) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 37,000.
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-15
- Date Complaint: 2019-04-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: W08AT271185
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: AIRBAG DEPLOYED LATE CAUSING ME MORE INJURY FOR NOT FUNCTIONING RIGHT.
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-13
- Date Complaint: 2019-04-15
- VIN: W08AT671585
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: RECALL AIRBAGS NOTIFICATION UPON PURCHASE 4/13/2019
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-07
- Date Complaint: 2018-09-27
- VIN: W08AR671385
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE HAD A PAID FOR MULTIPLE FLEX PIPES AS WELL AS A CATALYTIC CONVERTERS REPAIRS I WAS JUST INFORMED THE FLEX PIPE IS BROKEN AGAIN. THIS LEADS ME TO BELIEVE THAT AFTER REPAIRING THIS PART TWICE THAT THIS PART WAS BE DEFECTIVE. KINDLY ADD MY COMPLAINT . I WILL ALSO BE FILING A COMPLAINT WITH THE EPA IN WASHINGTON DC IN HOPES THAT THIS ISSUE CAN FINALLY BE RESOLVED. THANK YOU. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).' *PM
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2018-09-17
- VIN: W08AR671485
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED TWICE IN FOUR MONTH PERIOD. ON BOTH OCCASIONS THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION GOING 30-40 MPH. WITHOUT WARNING THE ASSISTED POWER STEERING CEASED OPERATION. IN A MATTER OF SECONDS, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME STIFF, DIFFICULT TO TURN, AND THE TURNING RANGE SIGNIFICANTLY DECREASED. NO WARNING LIGHTS APPEARED. ON THE FIRST OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTO REPAIR SHOP. NO DISCERNIBLE ISSUES WERE FOUND. THE MECHANIC CHECKED ALL FUSES AND FOUND NO FAULT. THE MECHANIC DECIDED TO REPLACE A FULLY FUNCTIONING FUSE, WHICH FIXED THE ISSUE FOR APPROXIMATELY THREE AND A HALF MONTHS. A FEW DAYS AGO, WITHOUT WARNING, WHILE DRIVING UNDER THE SAME CONDITIONS AS THE FIRST OCCURRENCE, THE ISSUE RETURNED-POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILED. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY IN THE SHOP AGAIN. THE REASON FOR THE POWER STEERING FAILURE REMAINS UNCLEAR.
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2018-08-01
- VIN: W08AR671685
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS ON A FLAT SURFACE RECENTLY PARKED AND TURNED OFF IN THE DRIVEWAY AND THE TRANSMISSION WAS IN PARK WHEN IT STARTED ROLLING BACKWARD. IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE IN PARK AND IT ACTED LIKE IT WAS IN REVERSE OR IN NEUTRAL.
Saturn Astra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-23
- Date Complaint: 2018-04-23
- VIN: W08AT271285
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: GM DEALERS ARE EXTREMELY UNCOOPERATIVE ABOUT MAKING THIS REPAIR. I HAVE BEEN GETTING NOTICES FOR A YEAR ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RECALL REPAIR. YET 10 THEY DON'T STOCK THE PART; AND 2) WILL NOT PROVIDE A LOANER CAR BECAUSE IT IS A SAME DAY REPAIR. SO I HAVE TO COOL MY HEELS AT A DEALER FOR 4 HOURS WHILE THEY MAKE THE REPAIR? THIS SUCKS -
Recalls Saturn Astra
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Saturn Astra.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- 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.
- 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.
Latest negative Saturn Astra car reviews
Latest positive Saturn Astra car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2008
We bought one as a first vehicle for our daughter last year. I'm so happy to report that it has 139,000 miles and we haven't had any issues at all!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your Astra! It's impressive how much room and comfort it provides for its size. The driver's seat offers generous legroom, plenty of clearance from the tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and a wide range of seat adjustments. I'm also impressed that you haven't stalled it despite not having driven a manual in many years. The Astra handles very well, even with the torsion rear axle, and it can be a lot of fun to drive around town. It's great that you can push its limits without breaking any traffic laws, unlike with your BMW 330i and Chrysler 300C.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I'm so glad you stumbled across the Astra at the Saturn dealer while looking at the Vue! After driving it, I can see why you couldn't wait to buy one. It's incredibly solid and zippy around town with the 5-speed stick, and it gets lots of stares. Even people in Hondas are asking what it is! I love how the doors don't sound like tin when you close them, and the remote windows are such a cool feature.
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Vehicle year: 2008
You're going to love driving this car! It's been an absolute blast for me on both the freeway and back roads. The car looks fantastic, both inside and out, and the manual transmission is incredibly peppy and responsive.
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Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! When I first saw the Astra in London, I absolutely loved it! Have you ever wondered why American car companies sell better designed cars abroad and not in the US? Well, finally they are listening! I bought my Astra for its overall design, handling, and practical features (I love hatchbacks!). Previously, I owned a Mazda3, but this car really blows it out of the water! In terms of gas mileage, it is rated 24-34, but I consistently get higher mileage on the highway. On a trip from Denver to Vail and back, I averaged over 37 mpg, and only had to shift into 4th gear once. The engine has great torque. Thanks for reading!
Are you having problems with your Saturn Astra?
Hank Schumm 2024-10-03
Vehicle year: 2008
I have owned this car for four years and it has gone from 58k to 78k miles. Unfortunately, I have had to spend over $4000 on maintenance due to electronic, sensor, serpentine, and ECT failures. This has left me with a dilemma - should I keep the car, which is only worth $3800, or cut my losses? I would advise staying away from Saturn as I have had a lot of issues with this vehicle. I have had to replace the AC pump twice, which was a free part but cost $700 in labor. The check engine light comes on so frequently that even AutoZone knows my name! However, I will say that it does get us to work and back. I recently had to spend another $1800 on an oil cooler and $1300 on a condenser. In summary, I would not recommend buying this vehicle.
Milford Kunde 2024-08-19
Vehicle year: 2008
I recently purchased a 2008 Saturn Astra for $26,000, plus an additional $5,000 for the warranty. Unfortunately, I have had a few issues with the car since my purchase, including a major part replacement during my first week of ownership. Additionally, the dealership where I purchased the car and its extras closed down shortly after my purchase, leaving me without the support I expected. I have found it difficult to find replacement parts for my car, and often have to wait several days for them to become available. While I have encountered some challenges with this car, I am hopeful that I will be able to resolve them soon. Overall, I would caution others to do their research before purchasing a Saturn Astra, but I remain optimistic about finding a solution to my current issues.
Tomas McLaughlin 2024-08-15
Vehicle year: 2008
I purchased my car brand new and unfortunately, I have experienced several issues with it. The low tire pressure light and engine light have come on multiple times, but the dealership has been helpful in resetting them. They also addressed a rattling noise in the dashboard and attempted to fix a window leak, although it still persists. Despite their efforts, the engine light has continued to come on and they have replaced the sensor, but the ABS and traction control lights have also come on. Additionally, the doors have locked themselves and the engine has surged and died, but the dealership has been working to resolve these issues. Overall, it has been a frustrating experience, but I appreciate the dealership's efforts to address the problems.
London Konopelski 2024-05-04
Vehicle year: 2008
I purchased a car with very few miles on it and loved it until the end. My wife and I live just north of St. Paul in Minnesota and were on our way to Utah in June of 2016. While cruising at seventy miles an hour on the interstate just outside of Sterling Colorado, I commented on how well the car was running and how fun it was to drive. Suddenly, I heard a snap up front and the car just stopped. After a few phone calls, the tow truck operator suspected that the timing belt had broken. Unfortunately, the car had less than 75000 miles on it. I ended up buying a new used car in Sterling and although I had owned 5 Saturns, this one was the best. However, GM did not offer any compensation for the broken timing belt and I was told that the engine would need a total rebuild or replacement. The dealer in Sterling was a Ford dealer and I ended up buying a Focus. Over the next 6 months, I found the car on the internet a couple of times with prices ranging from $5000 down to $2700. I hope the buyer got a car that ran well. GM never compensated me for the broken timing belt and I have not purchased another GM car since. Fast forward to October 2020, someone in my neighborhood bought a Saturn Astra which still looks good and has many more miles on it than mine did. I still love the car and it treated me great other than the timing belt issue. However, I will never purchase another GM car again.