2008 Saturn Aura hybrid problems
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Common 2008 Saturn Aura hybrid problems
The 2008 Saturn Aura is a popular sedan that comes in two trims, the XE and the XR, with the XE also being available in a hybrid Green Line model. While the car has many positive attributes, such as a comfortable interior and decent storage space, it is known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.
One of the most significant issues with the 2008 Saturn Aura is related to the transmission. The car's automatic transmission, particularly the 6-speed automatic transmission, is known to have several problems. These issues include a check engine light or the transmission not shifting properly, harsh shifts in third or fifth gear, and potentially no reverse
. The cause of these problems is often due to the 3-5-R Wave plate, which is supposed to be wavy and work like a spring. Over time, the plate may lose its play, causing internal damage to the transmission
. The only solution to this problem is to replace the damaged components, which requires removing the transmission.
Another common problem with the 2008 Saturn Aura is related to the EVAP vent valve. This issue can cause the check engine light to come on and may require the replacement of the valve
. Additionally, the cooling fan fuse is known to blow, which can cause the car to overheat and potentially lead to more severe engine problems
The wheel bearings are also a common problem with the 2008 Saturn Aura. Over time, the wheel bearings may wear out, causing noise and potentially leading to internal damage to the transmission. The only solution to this problem is to replace the entire bearing hub assembly
The combination switch or turn signal switch is another problematic area for the 2008 Saturn Aura. If the switch is faulty, the turn signal may not return to its neutral position, and the headlights may not work properly. The only solution to this problem is to replace the switch
Finally, the 2008 Saturn Aura is known to have transmission shifting failures, particularly in 2007 and 2008 models. The issue may involve the jacket covering the transmission shifter cable wearing out prematurely, causing the metal wires inside the cable to deteriorate and prevent the transmission from shifting into the gear selected by the driver.
In conclusion, while the 2008 Saturn Aura is a comfortable and practical sedan, it is known to have several common problems related to the transmission, EVAP vent valve, cooling fan fuse, wheel bearings, and combination switch. These issues can be costly to repair and may require the replacement of several components. Therefore, potential buyers should be aware of these problems and consider them when purchasing a used 2008 Saturn Aura.
What problems does a 2008 Saturn Aura have?
The 2008 Saturn Aura has generated 416 complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 86 of these are for electrical issues and 104 are for steering, with drivers reporting various warning lights blinking on for no apparent reason and the power steering going out. This led to two recalls in 2014.
Is the 2008 Saturn Aura a good car?
Edmunds says
Although not without a few rough edges, the 2008 Saturn Aura is a well-rounded midsize sedan with sufficient levels of style, comfort and performance to please most families of four. If you're looking for a domestic-brand alternative to the import standbys, this is one of the best choices for 2008.
Is the Saturn Aura reliable?
This car is known to be reliable. The exterior and interior are nothing too fancy but it has the necessities (functioning windows, A/C, mid size sedan space, decent trunk space, etc). Saturn is no longer in business so some have had issues finding parts and repairs may be expensive.
What is the fuel economy of a 2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid?
Compare Side-by-Side
| 2008 Saturn Aura Hybrid | |
|---|---|
| EPA Fuel Economy | Regular Gasoline |
| 27 MPG 24 32 combined city/highway city highway | |
| 3.7 gal/100mi | |
| 443 miles Total Range |
2008 Saturn Aura hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Saturn Aura hybrid problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Saturn Aura hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2008 Saturn Aura hybrid complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Saturn Aura hybrid.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-03
- VIN: 1G8ZS57N88F
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 SATURN AURA HYBRID. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN INTERNAL FAILURE WITH THE FUEL PUMP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 09V419000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AND 12V459000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,700.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-06
- VIN: 1G8ZR57538F
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SIMILAR TO THE REASON FOR THE RECALL ON THE PONTIAC G6, MY SATURN'S BRAKE LIGHTS WORK IN REVERSE AT TIMES. WHEN THE CRUISE CONTROL DISENGAGES OR REFUSES TO ENGAGE, THE BRAKE LIGHTS COME ON WITHOUT APPLYING THE BRAKE PEDAL. WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED, THE BRAKE LIGHTS GO OUT. IF IS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE I GET REAR-ENDED. FROM WHAT I UNDERSTAND, THE "FIX" ON THE PONTIAC G6 WAS ONLY A TEMPORARY FIX AND THESE DRIVERS FACE SIMILAR CONSEQUENCES ONCE AGAIN. *TR
Negative 2008 Saturn Aura hybrid car reviews
Positive 2008 Saturn Aura hybrid car reviews
-
This car drives nicely, is solid, and quiet. I'm getting an overall average of about 29 MPG. However, I noticed that the battery and electric motor don't seem to be contributing enough to move the car. While the battery gets charged easily and the gasoline engine stops when you come to a stop, the discharge of the battery in highway driving or accelerating is weak. Despite this, I still think it's a reasonable value for the price. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Saturn Aura hybrid problems:
2008 Saturn Aura Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Problem with your 2008 Saturn Aura? Our list of 13 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2008 Saturn Aura.
Q&A: 2008 Saturn Aura XE Intermittent Shifting Issues
Mar 1, 2014 ... 2008 Aura. Intermittently the car will shift "hard", especially when starting out, and the SERVICE TRACTION code will - Answered by a ...
aura electrical issues - Saturn Forum - Saturn Enthusiasts Forums
Jan 24, 2018 ... General Tech Help - aura electrical issues - Need help diagnosing this car..gauges and lights are intermittently erratic and transmission ...
Q&A: What Does Saturn Smell Like? | 2008 Saturn Musty Smell
Nov 13, 2020 ... I think it's a common problem with the 2008 Saturn Aura ... Customer reply. I NOTICE SOME WATER UNDER THE CAR AFTER PARKING.
Saturn Aura Electrical / Computer Problems? — Car Forums at ...
Dec 7, 2007 ... My 2008 Saturn Aura XE has been having electrical problems ever since last month, when, at 14,000 miles, the transmission failed on the ...
Other years of Saturn Aura hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2008 Saturn Aura hybrid?
Gilbert Skiles 2024-10-01
The gas mileage could be better, but on the positive side, the car looks great, is comfortable, and has a great interior setup with a well-designed center console and radio. It's worth noting that I calculate my mileage every time and it gets around 20 city and 27 Hwy.
Joe Lueilwitz 2024-09-05
The gas mileage of the Saturn hybrid is only 10-15% better than the non-hybrid Saturn, which is much lower than the 40% better gas mileage achieved by the Honda Civic and Toyota Prius hybrids compared to their non-hybrid versions. The Saturn hybrid system is belt-driven from the heavy-duty alternator-generator when the gas engine shuts off at intersection red lights, which is why it is called the 'Half-Hybrid' by Chevrolet dealers. After stopping, the Saturn hybrid can only run at 2mph on battery, while the Toyota Prius can run at 20mph. The Saturn Hybrid battery is also much smaller. Additionally, the tax credit for the Saturn hybrid is only half of that for the Honda Civic hybrid. General Motors has restricted their dual-stage hybrid to their large SUV gas guzzlers and pickup trucks, which is disappointing. However, it is important to note that the Saturn hybrid still offers some benefits in terms of fuel efficiency and environmental impact.