Saturn Outlook problems
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Saturn Outlook model years
Common Saturn Outlook problems
The Saturn Outlook, a mid-size crossover SUV produced between 2007 and 2010, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from car owners. Here are the most frequently mentioned issues in detail:
- Transmission Fault and/or Check Engine Light: The Saturn Outlook is known to have transmission issues, with many owners reporting a check engine light accompanied by codes P0716, P0776, or other related codes. These codes often indicate transmission faults, which can lead to a variety of issues, such as slipping, jerking, or hesitation during acceleration. In some cases, these problems may require a complete transmission replacement.
- Air Pressure Issues: Some Saturn Outlook owners have reported problems with tire pressure monitoring systems, indicating low or high tire pressure, slow leaks, or flat tires. This issue can be caused by faulty sensors or other components in the tire pressure monitoring system.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical issues are another common problem in the Saturn Outlook, with many owners reporting flickering or malfunctioning lights, radio problems, and cars that stay running even when the key is removed. These issues can be caused by faulty wiring, blown fuses, or other electrical components.
- Steering Issues: Some Saturn Outlook owners have reported steering problems, including difficulty turning the wheel or vibrations while driving. These issues can be caused by faulty steering components, such as steering racks, tie rods, or power steering pumps.
- Engine Problems: Engine issues are also common in the Saturn Outlook, with many owners reporting engine stalling, hesitation, or rough idling. These issues can be caused by faulty fuel injectors, spark plugs, or other engine components.
- Airbags & Seat Belts: Some Saturn Outlook owners have reported issues with airbags and seat belts, including airbags that fail to deploy or seat belts that fail to retract properly. These issues can be caused by faulty sensors or other components in the airbag and seat belt systems.
- Sunroof Leaks: Some Saturn Outlook owners have reported leaks in the sunroof, which can cause water damage to the interior of the car. These issues can be caused by faulty seals or other components in the sunroof system.
In conclusion, the Saturn Outlook has several common problems based on complaints from car owners. These issues include transmission faults, air pressure problems, electrical issues, steering problems, engine problems, airbags and seat belts issues, and sunroof leaks. It is important for Saturn Outlook owners to be aware of these issues and to address them promptly to avoid more serious problems down the road.
What years of Saturn Outlook to avoid?
Worst Issues
- 2008 Outlook transmission went out 11 (100%)
- 2009 Outlook weak power steering pump, difficult at low speeds 5 (45%)
- 2008 Outlook won't go into gear 4 (36%)
- 2007 Outlook power steering went out 3 (27%)
- 2007 Outlook transmission failure 2 (18%)
Is the 2009 Saturn Outlook a good car?
Thanks to its spacious dimensions and class-leading cargo space, the Outlook can easily serve as a respectable minivan replacement. And the Outlook's all-wheel drive and respectable towing capacity ensures SUV-like versatility.
Is the 2010 Saturn Outlook a good car?
Among the 213 owners who provided feedback on the 2010 Saturn Outlook for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 85% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and styling to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.
Is a 2008 Saturn Outlook a good car?
Edmunds says
With its pleasant ride, comfortable seating in all three rows and spacious cargo hold, the 2008 Saturn Outlook offers a mix of comfort and versatility rarely found in SUVs.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Saturn Outlook years
We have researched Saturn problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Saturn Outlook cars and compiled the top 4 most problematic Saturn Outlook model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Saturn Outlook model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Saturn Outlook years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Saturn Outlook car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Saturn Outlook , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Exterior lighting problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Saturn Outlook vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Outlook model years
A total of 16 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 Outlook model years
There were a total of 32 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 Outlook model years
There were a total of 20 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 1349 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Saturn Outlook . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Saturn Outlook vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Saturn Outlook 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- 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 Outlook 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-20
- VIN: 5GZEV13757J
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When it's cold I get frost inside my vehicle I replaced my windshield because I thought air was getting inside to cause the frost but after getting it replaced same issue water is leaking in and causing moisture and causing my vehicle not wanting to start because it's doing something to the battery
Saturn Outlook 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-23
- VIN: 5GZER23D69J
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving and my car started to lurch and went into reduced power mode. I quickly pulled over and turned off the engine. It was towed into the shop, and we found that the timing chain had broken. We had just had our engine mounts replaced and the oil changed. The vehicle has been well maintained. I have seen the issue with the timing chain failure is a common problem in Saturns/GM from internet research. It looks like there was a service bulletin to bring the car in if Service light comes on and you “think” it’s due to premature wear of timing chain. Now we are told the engine needs to be replaced because it was damaged by the timing chain failure and it seems like a known defect that should be covered because it exceeded the value of the car to have such a fix.
Saturn Outlook 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-14
- VIN: 5GZEV23758J
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Over this summer I went to start my truck and all the airbags pop out expect for the steering wheel air bag and dashboard air bag
Saturn Outlook 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-03
- VIN: 5GZEV33798J
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: This has been a big problem for all Saturn owners. The transmissions are always going out in them. This transmission is starting to slip. I’m surprised there is no recalls. Very disappointed.
Saturn Outlook 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-17
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-08
- VIN: 5GZER137X7J
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I HAVE A WIRE THAT BURNED-OUT AND IT CONTROLS MY WINDOWS, SUNROOF,MY AC CONTROLS, AND THEN ALSO MY TRANSMISSION IS SHUTERING
Saturn Outlook 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-06
- VIN: 5GZER13D49J
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: UNKNOWN We have only had this vehicle for approximately 4 months and have had soon many issues but the electrical system has been a problem non stop
Saturn Outlook 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-30
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-30
- VIN: 5gzev23d59j
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I bought this 2009 Saturn Outlook yesterday from a used dealership they said there was nothing wrong with the car well I live over 100 miles away from where I bough it and about halfway home it’s it was dark outside I was driving on the highway going up a hill the motor was acting like it wanted to jump out f the car (I’m not sure exactly how to describe it) anyways it only did ur for just a second then stopped all went back to normal and today just died while driving and now it wont start wont even turn over
Saturn Outlook 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-23
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-23
- VIN: 5gzer23797j
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: While driving, the car will automatically shift into 1st gear. Steering will then be disabled to the point of crash. Transmission/computer issue. Major issue with Saturn Outlooks.
Saturn Outlook 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-26
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-26
- VIN: 5GZEV23768J
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: airbag sensor on passenger seat stays off even when passenger is in seat. I have read many complaints from same vehicle since they were new. Also has electrical issues intermittently possibly from water leaking thru sunroof
Saturn Outlook 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-02-09
- VIN: 5GZER23738J
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Outlook. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front windshield wiper failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with windshield wiper motor failure. The contact was informed that the windshield wiper motor cover assembly needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V609000 (Visibility) however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was 197,357.
Saturn Outlook 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-27
- VIN: 5GZER13777J
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I just purchased this vehicle & on my way home with it the check engine light came on. I hooked up the diagnostic code scanner on the car and it threw several different codes PO700, PO752, PO420. There are specific transmission issues with this particular year, make, and model. My car has the exact same symptoms as the others that were recalled so why has mine not been recalled as well? It's malfunctioning just as the others described in the recall so clearly this is a common issue with these particular vehicles. I feel my car should be covered as part of the safety recall on the transmission and I need it repaired as soon as possible.
Saturn Outlook 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-25
- VIN: 5GZER23768J
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: UNKNOWN
Saturn Outlook 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-30
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-31
- VIN: 5gzev33788j
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Outlook. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the airbag warning light illuminated and remained illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the MDS was not communicating with the airbags. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
Saturn Outlook 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-25
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-26
- VIN: 5gzer13798j
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Outlook. The contact stated while inspecting the vehicle, the contact noticed that all 4 tires had started cracking along the tread. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 15T002000 (Tires) however, the tires were not included. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,692.
Latest 5 recalls Saturn Outlook
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 21 recalls for different components of the Saturn Outlook.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Saturn Outlook 2008
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-30
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured January 3, 2007, to February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles manufactured July 6, 2008, to March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia vehicles manufactured September 15, 2006, to February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles manufactured August 17, 2006, to March 18, 2010. The affected vehicles, equipped with the power liftgate option, have gas struts that hold the power liftgate up when open. These struts may prematurely wear and the open liftgate may suddenly fall.
- Consequence: If the open liftgate unexpectedly falls, it may strike a person, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the power liftgate actuator motor control unit so that the motor will prevent the rapid closing of the lift gate, free of charge. The recall began on November 15, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 15240.
- Model: Saturn Outlook 2009
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-30
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured January 3, 2007, to February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles manufactured July 6, 2008, to March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia vehicles manufactured September 15, 2006, to February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles manufactured August 17, 2006, to March 18, 2010. The affected vehicles, equipped with the power liftgate option, have gas struts that hold the power liftgate up when open. These struts may prematurely wear and the open liftgate may suddenly fall.
- Consequence: If the open liftgate unexpectedly falls, it may strike a person, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the power liftgate actuator motor control unit so that the motor will prevent the rapid closing of the lift gate, free of charge. The recall began on November 15, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 15240.
- Model: Saturn Outlook 2010
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-30
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured January 3, 2007, to February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles manufactured July 6, 2008, to March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia vehicles manufactured September 15, 2006, to February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles manufactured August 17, 2006, to March 18, 2010. The affected vehicles, equipped with the power liftgate option, have gas struts that hold the power liftgate up when open. These struts may prematurely wear and the open liftgate may suddenly fall.
- Consequence: If the open liftgate unexpectedly falls, it may strike a person, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the power liftgate actuator motor control unit so that the motor will prevent the rapid closing of the lift gate, free of charge. The recall began on November 15, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 15240.
- Model: Saturn Outlook 2007
- Report Received Date: 2015-06-30
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured January 3, 2007, to February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles manufactured July 6, 2008, to March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia vehicles manufactured September 15, 2006, to February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles manufactured August 17, 2006, to March 18, 2010. The affected vehicles, equipped with the power liftgate option, have gas struts that hold the power liftgate up when open. These struts may prematurely wear and the open liftgate may suddenly fall.
- Consequence: If the open liftgate unexpectedly falls, it may strike a person, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the power liftgate actuator motor control unit so that the motor will prevent the rapid closing of the lift gate, free of charge. The recall began on November 15, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 15240.
- Model: Saturn Outlook 2010
- Report Received Date: 2014-05-20
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: General Motors is recalling certain model year 2009-2014 Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured April 14, 2008, through May 14, 2014, Chevrolet Traverse vehicles manufactured June 6, 2008, through May 14, 2014, and GMC Acadia vehicles manufactured April 9, 2008, through May 14, 2014, and 2009-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles manufactured April 14, 2008, through March 18, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the flexible steel cable that connects the seatbelt to the front outboard seating positions may fatigue and separate over time.
- Consequence: If the steel cable becomes fatigued and separates, the seatbelt may not properly restrain the seat occupant increasing the risk of an injury in a crash.
- Remedy: General Motors will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, repair and replace the lap pretensioner, free of charge. Parts are not currently available. An interim notice will be mailed to owners in July 2014. A second notice will be mailed to owners once parts become available. The recall for the 2009-2010 model years began on July 11, 2014. The interim letter for the 2011-2014 model years were distributed on July 11, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-462-8782 (GMC), 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn). General Motors recall number for this campaign is 14187.
Latest negative Saturn Outlook car reviews
Latest positive Saturn Outlook car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2008
Looking for a reliable 7-passenger car with under 100,000 miles for under $10,000 can be a daunting task, especially when you live in farming country and need a car that can go for a long time and hold your growing family. In 2016, we found the Outlook from a small dealer around the Twin Cities area in MN. It test drove nicely and we drove it 5 hours home with no problems. However, we did encounter some issues with the car shortly after. Despite these setbacks, we have been doing our best to keep the car running. Unfortunately, the transmission recently went and we are unable to afford a new one. While we regret buying the Outlook, we are grateful for our 2003 Saturn ION series 2, which has over 200,000 miles on it and still runs like a top. It's a great reminder that American-made cars can be reliable and long-lasting.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I really love this SUV! During my search, I test drove the MDX, Highlander, and Pilot, but this beast outperforms them all in every aspect. As someone who is very particular about everything, I was pleased to find that this SUV scored well in every category. The interior is clean, easy to use, and functional, with excellent door paneling. The seat design and comfort are top-notch, even better than the MDX. The body fit and finish are great, and the ride quality strikes the perfect balance between handling and comfort. I measured the noise level at around 72 decibels at 70 miles, and I'm curious if it would improve even more with top-quality tires. The only improvements I would suggest are better upholstery for the back of the seat liners, cup holders with slots for mug handles, and adjustable headrest positions like those in a BMW.
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Vehicle year: 2008
We carefully chose this vehicle over other options such as the M-B GL350, CX-9, Highlander, and Pilot. The Outlook won us over with its spacious interior, ample seating, power/weight ratio, size, driveability, towing capacity, and AWD. While we suspected that the fuel economy might not meet the advertised standards, we still managed to get 19 mpg at 75 mph on the freeway and 14-15 mpg in town. Of course, when you invest 40 grand in a vehicle, you should be prepared to spend a little extra on gas for a 4,700 pound CUV. It's not a giant-sized Yaris! Our 7,000 lb diesel crewcab 4wdF350 gets 20 mpg, but that's another story...
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Vehicle year: 2009
This vehicle is impressively stable. I have been able to avoid three potential accidents by swerving hard to avoid drivers who were not paying attention while changing lanes. The computer-controlled stability system works exceptionally well. It has ample power, with 290hp, and I was able to achieve 23.5 mpg on a trip to Texas and 16 to 17 mpg in town with a very light foot. The design is fantastic both inside and out, with no rattles or squeaks. The door closes like a vault door, and it is quiet on the road with minimal wind noise. I particularly love the sliding center armrest, and there is tons of cargo space with the seats down.
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Vehicle year: 2008
Even before we purchased our 2008 Outlook XR AWD, we first saw it at the Maine Mall. Now that we have purchased it, we know we made the right choice. This is a great crossover SUV that meets our needs, especially for our trips to Massachusetts. We enjoy everything about the Outlook!
Are you having problems with your Saturn Outlook?
Korbin Kilback 2025-09-25
Vehicle year: 2008
The car experienced sudden acceleration, hard shifting, and slight hesitation when shifting gears. Although restarting the car would usually solve the issue, over time it became more persistent, with the car occasionally failing to shift out of first gear. Despite my attempts to bring it to GM, the issue would often resolve itself before I could get there. Eventually, the car had to be towed in at 84,000 miles. Two weeks later, I was informed that the 35 wave plate and valve control module in the transmission needed to be replaced. This is a common issue that many people are experiencing with this car, and it is a major flaw that should be recalled.
Jerome Bayer 2025-09-21
Vehicle year: 2009
In the past 4 months, I've had to replace two engine mounts, a bushing, the power steering pump, and the throttle body. Unfortunately, the transmission also needs to be rebuilt as it's stuck in low gear and won't go in reverse. Based on my experience, I would recommend avoiding this car as it has proven to be quite expensive to maintain.
Morton Konopelski 2025-09-07
Vehicle year: 2007
If you are considering purchasing this car, it is important to note that we experienced several issues with it after buying it new in 07. Despite initially enjoying the spaciousness and driving experience, we encountered problems with leaking from the sunroof, windows, airbags, and under the glove box within the first year. Unfortunately, we had to pay $600 for repairs, despite many others having reported the same issue to GM. While there is a recall/bulletin on the exterior lights, our VIN number is not included, and GM has been unresponsive to our concerns. We kindly suggest that you consider other options when looking for a car. Thank you for your attention.
Louisa O'Keefe 2025-09-02
Vehicle year: 2008
Overall, the car is just 'okay'. Unfortunately, the transmission has had serious problems, requiring a rebuild at 58k miles, a control module replacement at 111k, a speed sensor replacement at 115k, and now it's looking like it needs another rebuild at 141k. As a result, the vehicle is unreliable and I would definitely not recommend it. It's a shame that GM quality is no longer what it used to be. I would never buy another one.
Stan Macejkovic 2025-08-19
Vehicle year: 2007
This car was purchased by a single mom who needed to shuttle her kids around to various events, friends, and trips. Unfortunately, soon after the purchase, the check engine light came on and the car had to be taken in for repairs. The timing chain was replaced under a recall, but it was discovered that metal was in the oil. The transmission control module malfunctioned, and the power steering went out due to a faulty design on the hose. Additionally, oil was leaking into the throttle body, so a gasket was replaced. After the final repair, the car only made it 3 miles down the road before the engine seized. Based on my experience, I would not recommend purchasing this car, and I personally will not be buying from GM again.