2006 Saturn Relay problems

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2006 Saturn Relay

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Common 2006 Saturn Relay problems

The Saturn Relay, a minivan produced by General Motors, has been reported to have several common problems by owners of the 2006 model. This article will explore these issues in detail.

  • High Pressure Power Steering Hose Can Leak Fluid: Another common problem with the 2006 Saturn Relay is leaks in the high-pressure power steering hose. This component is responsible for supplying hydraulic fluid to the power steering system, allowing for easy maneuvering. However, when the hose becomes damaged or wears out, it can leak fluid, reducing the effectiveness of the power steering and potentially leading to a complete loss of power steering. To prevent this issue, regular inspections of the power steering hose and fluid levels are recommended. If a leak is detected, it is crucial to replace the faulty hose promptly.
  • Check Engine Light and Trouble Filling Gas: Some owners of the 2006 Saturn Relay have reported experiencing a check engine light along with difficulties filling the gas tank. This issue can be caused by a faulty evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system, which is designed to prevent fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. When this system malfunctions, it can cause the check engine light to illuminate and make it difficult to fill the gas tank. A thorough inspection and repair of the EVAP system is necessary to resolve this problem.
  • Faulty Engine Valve Cover Gaskets: Although not explicitly mentioned in the search results for the Saturn Relay, the Saturn Vue, another model produced by General Motors, has been reported to have issues with faulty engine valve cover gaskets, which tend to develop oil leaks. This problem can also affect the Saturn Relay, as both vehicles share some components. The valve cover gaskets are responsible for sealing the engine's valve covers, preventing oil from leaking out. When these gaskets fail, oil can leak, potentially causing damage to other engine components. Regular inspections of the valve cover gaskets and prompt replacement when necessary can help prevent this issue.
  • No-Start Problems: Some owners of the 2006 Saturn Relay have reported experiencing no-start issues, which can be caused by various factors, including a faulty alternator, starter, or battery, dirty connections, ignition system problems, or fuel system issues. To diagnose and address no-start problems, a thorough inspection of the vehicle's electrical and fuel systems is required. Replacing faulty components, cleaning connections, and repairing ignition or fuel system issues can help resolve this problem.
  • DVD Player Overheating: The 2006 Saturn Relay's entertainment system, which includes a DVD player, has been reported to overheat, potentially causing damage to the system and disrupting the in-vehicle entertainment experience. To prevent this issue, it is essential to ensure proper ventilation for the entertainment system and avoid prolonged use of the DVD player, especially in hot weather conditions.
  • Lighting Flickers: Some owners of the 2006 Saturn Relay have reported flickering lighting issues, which can be caused by various electrical problems, including faulty wiring, loose connections, or malfunctioning switches. To address this issue, a thorough inspection of the vehicle's electrical system is necessary, followed by repairs to any faulty components.
  • Recurring Check Engine Light: The 2006 Saturn Relay has been reported to have a recurring check engine light problem, which can be caused by various issues, including faulty sensors, malfunctioning emissions control systems, or damaged wiring. To diagnose and resolve this problem, a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle's electrical and emissions control systems is required, followed by repairs to any faulty components.
  • Sliding Door Problems: Some owners of the 2006 Saturn Relay have reported issues with the sliding door, including difficulty opening and closing, as well as mechanical failures. To address these problems, a thorough inspection of the sliding door mechanism is necessary, followed by repairs or replacement of any faulty components.
  • Engine Shutting Off While Driving: Some owners of the 2006 Saturn Relay have reported experiencing engine shut-off issues while driving, which can be caused by various factors, including faulty fuel pumps, clogged fuel filters, or electrical problems. To diagnose and resolve this problem, a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle's fuel and electrical systems is required, followed by repairs to any faulty components.

In conclusion, the 2006 Saturn Relay has been reported to have several common problems, including check engine light issues, power steering hose leaks, faulty EVAP systems, no-start problems, DVD player overheating, lighting flickers, recurring check engine lights, sliding door issues, and engine shut-off while driving. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can help prevent these issues and ensure the vehicle's longevity and reliability.

2006 Saturn Relay engine

What are the problems with a 2006 Saturn Vue?

Leaking Engine Valve Cover Gasket

One of the most widely reported 2006 Saturn Vue problems is its faulty engine valve cover gaskets, which tend to develop oil leaks. This issue is also common with the 2002-2003, 2005, and 2008 Saturn Vue.

Is Saturn a reliable car?

Plus, for the most part, the cars were fairly reliable. Twin-cam models were consistently solid and although single-cam engines from 1992 to 1998 occasionally developed cylinder head cracks, that issue seemed to only affect a small percentage of Saturns.

What went wrong with Saturn cars?

Saturn, a GM company that had great promise in the early 1990s, ultimately failed because senior GM leaders couldn't see the benefits of new ways of doing things and a new kind of organizational culture.

How long do Saturn engines last?

Saturn engines were generally reliable and long-lasting. A 2002 Saturn SL2 came with an I4 engine that made 124 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque. With regular oil changes and smooth driving, you can expect the SL2's engine to last at least 200,000 miles.

2006 Saturn Relay car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Saturn Relay problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Power train problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2006 Saturn Relay vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2006 Saturn Relay complaints

The NHTSA has received 19 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Saturn Relay.

2017-10-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-09-27
  • VIN: 5GZDV23126D
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: SERVICE ABS AND SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHTS CAME ON AND HAVE REMAINED ON FOR SEVERAL DAYS. FURTHER MESSAGES CONTINUE FLASHING ON THE DRIVER INFORMATION CENTER. THIS HAS BEEN A RECURRING PROBLEM OVER THE PAST YEAR AFTER ABS WHEEL SENSORS AND THE ASSOCIATED WIRING WERE REPLACED. WITH THE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ON THE INTERNET - I WAS THINKING THAT SURELY A TSB OR RECALL ON THESE ISSUES HAS BEEN OVERLOOKED OR SIMPLY IGNORED BY THE MECHANICS AND SERVICE WRITERS AT THE GM DEALERSHIPS NATIONWIDE. I KNOW THAT A TECH LL SCANNER IS REQUIRED TO CHECK FOR ANY TROUBLE CODES FOR THESE VERY COMPLEX SYSTEMS, BUT WHAT IS THE KNOWN DEFINITIVE FIX FOR THESE POTENTIALLY SERIOUS PROBLEMS ? THE LIGHTS AND MESSAGES BEGAN APPEARING AFTER MODERATE BRAKING AND WHILE VEHICLE IS/WAS IN MOTION OR STATIONARY WHILE TURNING OR ON A STRAIGHT AHEAD STRETCH OF ROADWAY. VARIED ROAD CONDITIONS AND WET OR DRY WEATHER CONDITIONS WERE SEEMINGLY NOT CONTRIBUTING FACTORS.
2014-03-12

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-10-01
  • VIN: 5GZDV23116D
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: ATTEMPTED LOW/MODERATE ACCELERATION FROM STOP; TRANSMISSION SEEMED TO SLIP WITH ENGINE RPM INCREASING BUT NO TRANSFER OF POWER BEYOND ABOUT INITIAL HALF-FOOT OF FORWARD MOTION, THEN HARD SHIFTED INTO GEAR (LURCHED THE VEHICLE) AND ACCELERATED RAPIDLY. THIS EVENT WAS INITIALLY INTERMITTENT AND NOT ABLE TO BE REPRODUCED BY MECHANIC. IT HAS NOW BECOME FREQUENT AND AFFECTS SHIFTING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AS WELL AS FROM STOP, MAKING CONTROL OF ACCELERATION UNPREDICTABLE IS HARD SHIFTING THROUGH MOST GEARS WHEN THIS IS OCCURRING, ALTHOUGH AT OTHER TIMES IT SHIFTS VERY SMOOTHLY THROUGHOUT, MAKING IT MORE DIFFICULT TO REPRODUCE FOR MECHANIC. *TR
2014-03-12

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-09-28
  • VIN: 5GZDV23116D
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: AFTER STARTING VEHICLE, WITH FOOT ON BRAKE, GEAR SELECTION LEVER WOULD NOT MOVE FROM PARK AND PARKING BRAKE WOULD NOT DISENGAGE AS RESULT. SHUT DOWN ENGINE, RESTARTED WITH SAME RESULT. AFTER SEVERAL MORE ATTEMPTS TO MOVE THE SHIFT LEVER, IT FINALLY RELEASED FROM PARK BUT HAD DIFFICULTY MOVING DIRECTLY INTO REVERSE GEAR - IT HAD TO BE "ROWED" THRU ALL GEARS TO SETTLE TO REVERSE, AND THE TRANSMISSION DID NOT SEEM TO ENGAGE IN REVERSE INITIALLY. WHEN IT DID ENGAGE REVERSE GEAR, THE TRANSMISSION "JUMPED," LURCHING THE CAR (THE PARKING BRAKE HAD DISENGAGED WHEN GEAR SELECTION LEVER FINALLY MOVED FROM PARK). THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM, AND SEEMS TO SOMETIMES COINCIDE WITH OTHER DRIVETRAIN ISSUE PREVIOUSLY DESCRIBED. *TR
2014-03-12

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-08-23
  • VIN: 5GZDV23116D
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: NOTED THAT DRIVING LIGHTS FLASHED WITH WIPERS ON DELAY SETTING. AT NEXT USE, LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT & WARNING SOUNDED BUT LIGHTS DID NOT FLASH WITH DELAY WIPERS. TURNING OFF ENGINE AND PULLING HOOD LATCH & CLOSING HOOD ENDED LOW PRESSURE WARNING (OIL PRESSURE/ LEVEL WERE CORRECT-FALSE ALARM). 2 DAYS LATER, LIGHTS AGAIN FLASHED WITH WIPERS ON DELAY BUT NO OIL PRESSURE WARNING. CONTINUED THIS BACK-AND-FORTH (EITHER OIL WARNING OR LIGHT FLASH WITH WIPER USE, BUT NOT CONCOMITANT) FOR 2 MONTHS, THEN LOW PRESSURE WARNINGS BECAME CONSTANT, AND THE LIGHTS NO LONGER FLASHED WITH THE WIPERS AT ALL.THE LOW OIL PRESSURE WARNING CAN OFTEN BE STOPPED BY EITHER TURNING OFF ENGINE AND CAREFULLY RESTARTING OR PULLING HOOD LATCH AND SLAMMING HOOD. SHIFTING GEARS MAY ALSO TRIGGER THE LOW PRESSURE WARNING IF IT ISN'T ALREADY ON. *TR
2014-01-05

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-12-28
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 5GZDV03L86D
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: MY 18 YEAR OLD SON HAD AN ACCIDENT. HE ROLLED THE VAN MULTIPLE TIMES, HIT TREES ,DAMAGED ALL SIDES, AND ROOF OF THE VAN. THE ONLY DOOR THAT WOULD EASILY OPEN WAS THE DRIVERS DOOR. THE FRONT AXLE BROKE, WINDSHIELD BROKEN. THE INSURANCE APPRAISER SAID ALL PANELS WERE DAMAGED AND COULD NOT BELIEVE NONE OF THE AIR BAGS OPENED. THE SATURN RELAY 2006 WAS A TOTAL LOSS. *TR
2013-02-13

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-10-09
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: 5GZDV23LX6D
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SATURN RELAY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WITHIN THREE MONTHS, THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE DARKENED BY THREE SHADES. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A STRONG METALLIC SMELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE THAT HAD EVEN AFFECTED HER BREATHING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS A FOREIGN HOSE ATTACHED TO THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER THAT COULD HAVE BEEN THE CAUSE OF THE TOXIC LEAK. THE CONTACT BECAME VERY ILL AND STRONG TRACES OF CADMIUM, LEAD AND MERCURY WERE FOUND IN HER BLOOD SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 86,000.
2011-10-24

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-09-01
  • VIN: 5GZDV23L96D
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
  • Summary: I STARTED GETTING "SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM" WARNING MESSAGE AND LIGHT WITH "SERVICE ABS SYSTEM" WARNING MESSAGE AND LIGHT AND "SERVICE STABILITY SYSTEM". ALL ARE ALWAYS AT THE SAME TIME. SHUTTING OFF THE ENGINE AND RESTARTING (PER OWNERS MANUAL) TEMPORARILY CAUSES THE LIGHTS AND MESSAGES TO TURN OFF, BUT THEY ALWAYS RETURN LATER. THIS PROBLEM IS WELL DOCUMENTED IN SATURN FORUMS AND IS HAPPENING WITH MANY, MANY OWNERS. *TR
2011-05-10

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-08-08
  • VIN: 5GZDV23L06D
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SATURN RELAY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AUTOMATIC SLIDING DOORS WOULD NOT SHUT. WHEN ACTIVATED, THE DOOR WOULD START TO CLOSE BUT WOULD NOT LATCH AND THEN WOULD REOPEN. THE CONTACT STATED IT TAKES A COUPLE OF HOURS AND ATTEMPTS BEFORE THE DOOR WOULD CLOSE. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIANS WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE TECHNICIANS PERFORMED ADJUSTMENTS TO THE DOOR BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT FURTHER REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000.
2010-06-08

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-06-07
  • VIN: 1G8AJ55F46Z
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: MY 2006 SATURN ION ALL OF A SUDDEN LOST ITS POWER STEERING WHILE I WAS DRIVING! I ALMOST CRASHED! AND NOW IT GOING TO COST OVER 500 OR MORE TO FIX. I COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED, I WAS GOING UP A HILL ON A CURVE. JUST ALL OF A SUDDEN THE BELL RANG AND IT POPPED UP PWR STR. I GOT THE CAR STOPPED AND TURNED IT OFF WHEN I TURNED IT BACK ON IT WAS FINE FOR ABOUT 5 FEET AND AGAIN IT DID IT. I GOT HOME AND CHECKED THE FUSE AND MADE SURE IT WAS OK. TODAY I DROVE ALL OVER AND IT WAS OK AND THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN AGAIN IT CAME ON AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP! *TR
2009-12-10

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-12-09
  • VIN: 5GZDX23L36D
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: AWD DISABLED WHEN NEEDED IN SNOW. IT SEEMS TO BE CAUSED BY ICY SLUSH. I CONFIRMED WITH THE DEALER THAT THE HUB ASSEMBLY'S AWD SENSOR CAN GET COVERED UP WITH MUD OR SLUSH AND THE AWD SYSTEM WILL DISABLE. ANY AWD SYSTEM THAT GETS DISABLED BY SLUSH IS LUDICROUSLY DESIGNED, AND BORDERLINE NEGLIGENT WITH REGARDS TO SAFETY. *TR
2008-10-07

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-08-18
  • VIN: 5GZDV23116D
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SATURN RELAY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR REPEATEDLY OPENS AND CLOSES. SHE HAS TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER MORE THAN FOUR TIMES WITHIN TWO MONTHS TO HAVE THE DOOR REPAIRED. THE DEALER HAS SEEN MANY OF THE SAME VEHICLES WITH IDENTICAL FAILURES. THEY ARE EXPERIENCING DIFFICULTY REPAIRING THE DOOR. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 34,600.
2008-09-16

STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-09-14
  • VIN: 5GZDX23L36D
  • Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: POWER SLIDING DOOR ON 2006 SATURN RELAY IS NOT CLOSING PROPERLY AND OPENS UNEXPECTEDLY. DOOR DOES NOT CLOSE COMPLETELY, DOES NOT LATCH AND OCCASSIONALLY DOOR REOPENS WHILE VEHICLE IS MOVING. TROUBLE STARTED ABOT TWO MONTHS AGO BUT THE REGULARITY OF THIS OCCURRANCE HAS INCREASED SIGNIFICANLTY OVER THE LAST FOUR DAYS. *TR
2008-09-02

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-08-30
  • VIN: 5GZDV23L86D
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: I HAVE A 2006 SATURN RELAY. IT WAS AN EXECUTIVE DRIVEN CAR AND WAS PURCHASED WITH 400 MILES ON IT AND THE WARRANTY TRANSFERRED OVER TO ME. THE TRACTION CONTROL ON THIS VEHICLE IS DEFECTIVE. WHEN THE TRACTION CONTROL ENGAGED IT WOULD KNOCK OUT THE STABILITY CONTROL, TRACTION CONTROL, AND ABS SYSTEM. ALTHOUGH I HAVE BREAKS, THEY ARE MANUAL BREAKS. AT FIRST SATURN SAID THE SYSTEM IS WORKING TO FACTORY SPECS UNTIL IT HAPPENED TO THEIR VEHICLE. THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH MINE. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE IN THE CAR BECAUSE, I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT WHAT KIND OF BREAKING SYSTEM I HAVE WHEN TRYING TO ENGAGE MY BREAKS. I DO NOT WANT TO CAUSE HARM TO ANYONE OR HAVE ANY ACCIDENT CAUSED BY THIS RESULT IN DEATH. I DO NOT WANT HARM TO ME OR MY LOVED ONES EITHER. NO ONE AT SATURN OR SATURN OF GREENFIELD SENSES THE URGENCY OF THIS SITUATION. IT ISN'T UNTIL I COMPLAINT THAT I AT LEAST GET SOME TYPE OF ACTION, ALTHOUGH IT RESULTS IN THE SYSTEM FAILING AGAIN. I HAVE MY CAR IN TO HAVE THIS ISSUE FIXED EARLIER THIS SUMMER. THIS PAST WEEKEND, THE SYSTEM FAILED THREE TIMES IN TWO DAYS. NOT A GOOD RESULT. I NEED THIS DOCUMENTED SO THAT IN THE EVENT I AM INVOLVED IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT, I WILL NOT BE ACCUSED OF NOT DISCLOSING THIS SITUATION. I CAN SAY THAT I DID AND NO ONE TOOK IT SERIOUSLY WHICH WILL PROBABLY RESULT IN A LONG MESSY LEGAL BATTLE. I HAVE DONE MY PART, BUT SATURN OF GREENFIELD AND GM (SATURN) HAS FAILED TO DO THEIRS. *TR
2007-09-18

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-09-07
  • VIN: 5GZDV23L76D
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: WE OWN A 2006 SATURN RELAY 3 THAT WE PURCHASED IN JUNE 2007. WE HAVE BECOME AWARE OF A DESIGN FLAW THAT EXISTS IN CHEVROLET UPLANDERS AND SATURN RELAYS THAT CAN LEAD TO DANGEROUS CONSEQUENCES. WE HAVE BEEN ADVISED BY OUR DEALERSHIP THAT GM IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND HAS DONE NOTHING TO RECTIFY IT. BECAUSE OF THE SHAPE OF THE GAS TANK, IF THE CAR IS IDLING WHILE ON AN INCLINE, GAS DISSIPATES FROM THE ENGINE AND THE CAR MAY STALL. THIS CAN OCCUR DESPITE THERE BEING MORE THAN A QUARTER TANK OF GAS IN THE CAR. FURTHER, THE CAR CANNOT BE RESTARTED UNLESS SET ON A LEVEL SURFACE. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO US ON TWO OCCASIONS. MY WORRY IS THAT IT COULD HAPPEN IN A DANGEROUS PLACE (I.E. IN A TRAFFIC JAM IN A TUNNEL SUCH AS THE LINCOLN TUNNEL) WHERE THE CAR CANNOT BE RESTARTED AND THERE IS NOT EASY ACCESS TO EVACUATE. GM IS KNOWINGLY SELLING THESE MODELS WITHOUT DISCLOSING THE DEFECT. FURTHER, THERE IS NO DISCLOSURE AFTER PURCHASE UNTIL AN EVENT OCCURS AND THEN THERE IS NO EFFORT TO REMEDY THE DEFECT. *JB
2007-07-18

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-07-17
  • VIN: 5GZDV23L66D
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SATURN RELAY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SLIDING DOOR FAILED TO CLOSE PROPERLY. THE DOOR HAS TO BE SLAMMED SHUT IN ORDER FOR IT TO CLOSE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED BY A DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 7,000.
2006-10-04

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-05-13
  • VIN: 5GZDX23L46D
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
  • Summary: 2006 SATURN VAN IS DESIGNED WITH THE CHARACTERISTIC OF RUNNING OUT OF FUEL WHEN OPERATING ON AN INCLINE (NOSE UP OR NOSE DOWN), WITH A 1/4 TANK OF FUEL REMAINING. AFTER THIS OCCURRED THE 2ND TIME I COMPLAINED TO THE DEALERSHIP AND ASKED THEM TO REPAIR. THEY STATED THEY WERE AWARE OF THE CHARACTERISTIC AND THAT IT COULD NOT BE REPAIRED. THEY CAUTIONED ME TO NOT ALLOW THE GAS LEVEL TO DROP BELOW 1/2 TANK. THEY STATED THIS WAS LISTED AS A CHARACTERISTIC OF THE CAR IN THE OWNERS MANUAL AND THAT RELEASED THEM FROM RESPONSIBILITY.*JB
2006-08-21

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-07-22
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 5GZDV03L46D
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT WAS STOPPED IN THE CENTER LANE, WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE ATTEMPTED TO GET INTO THE SAME LANE. THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS HIT ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE FENDER CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO FLIP COMPLETELY OVER AND LANDED RIGHT SIDE UP. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD AND ARM INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN. ALL OCCUPANTS WERE WEARING THEIR SEATBELTS. THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT WAS NOT ILLUMINATED PRIOR TO THE CRASH. THERE WERE PICTURES AVAILABLE AND THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED TOTALED.
2006-07-20

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-07-01
  • VIN: 5GZDV03L56D
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: I WAS TRAVELING ON AZ STATE ROUTE 87 ON A 6 PERCENT DOWNGRADE. I HAD APPLIED THE BRAKES A TOTAL OF 3 TIMES FOR NO MORE THAN 3 TO 5 SECONDS AT A TIME, THIS OCCURRED OVER A 5 MINUTE TIME FRAME. ON THE THIRD APPLICATION THE BRAKES BEGAN TO CAVITATE VERY BADLY. THIS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO SWAY AND BRAKES FADED OUT. THE BRAKES MADE A RUBBING SOUND FOR THE NEXT SEVERAL DAYS. WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED WHILE TURNING THEY MAKE A GRINDING SOUND/FEEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN INTO SATURN OF ARROWHEAD PEORIA, AZ ON 07/06/06. THEY STATED NOTHING WAS FOUND WRONG WITH BRAKES. THEY SAID IT IS COMMON FOR BRAKES TO FADE ON THIS VEHICLE GOING DOWN HILL. THEY STATED WE SHOULD DOWNSHIFT TO COMPENSATE. THEY CAN NOT EXPLAIN WHY BRAKES MAKE SOUND WHILE TURNING, THEY SAY BRAKES ARE FINE. I PERSONALLY BELIEVE PROBLEM IS THAT BRAKE ROTORS ARE TO SMALL FOR SIZE OF VEHICLE. THAT THEY HEAT UP TO QUICKLY AND FADE OUT AND ROTORS BEGIN TO WARP. THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW THAT CAN BE CORRECTED BY INCREASING ROTOR SIZE AND BRAKE SHOE SIZE, THERE IS PLENTY OF ROOM IN WHEEL WELL. *NM
2006-07-06

STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-06-26
  • VIN: 5GZDV03L46D
  • Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,SEATS
  • Summary: 1) BOUGHT OUR SATURN RELAY MAY 30, 2006 2) TOOK IT TO THE DEALER IT TO THE DEALER BECAUSE HOOD RATTLE, SAID IT WAS NOTHING SENT ME HOME. 3) CALLED ABOUT THE LOW MILEAGE THE VAN WAS MAKING, SAID IT WAS OK 4) 1 MONTH AND 26 DAYS CAR BREACKS DOWN REPAIRS ARE MADE ON 6/26/06 -SENDING UNIT WAS REPLACE -SENSORY KIT WAS REPLACE -HOOD NOT CLOSING WAS CORRECTED LATCH WAS REPLACE -AND HOOD BUMPER WAS FIX -INTERMITTENT ENGINE NOISE ( NOT FIX) -STEERING WHEEL VIBRATES WHEN MAKING A SHARP TURN ( NOT FIX) MOST IMPORTANT THE MIDDLE SEAT THAT ARE BOTH CAPTAIN CHAIRS DO NOT HAVE A ARM REST SO WHEN THE KIDS SIT THERE AND MY MOM THEY TEND TO LOOSE THERE VALANCE BECAUSE THERE IS NOTHING TO HOLD THEM IN PLACE.--- THEY SAY THAT'S THE WAY THEY COME AND THERE IS NOTHING TO DO ABOUT IT. *NM

2006 Saturn Relay recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2006 Saturn Relay.

2009-02-17
  • Manufacturer: DORMAN PRODUCTS, INC.
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: DORMAN IS RECALLING 979 STEERING KNUCKLES, DORMAN P/NOS. 697-902 AND 697-903, SOLD UNDER DORMAN'S "OE SOLUTIONSTM" BRAND NAME, AND NAPA P/NOS. 7-8502 AND 7-8503 WHICH WERE SOLD FOR REPLACEMENT USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. A POTENTIAL MATERIAL OR DESIGN DEFECT COULD RESULT IN THE STEERING KNUCKLE BREAKING IN THE HUB AREA.
  • Consequence: A BROKEN STEERING KNUCKLE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
  • Remedy: DORMAN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE STEERING KNUCKLES FREE OF CHARGE AND REIMBURSE THE REPAIR FACILITY OR OWNER FOR LABOR. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 23, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DORMAN'S TOLL-FREE HOTLINE AT 1-800-523-2492 AND PRESS 5.
2005-12-07
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: CERTAIN TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SHIPPED WITH TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABELS LISTING AN INACCCURATE VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHT.
  • Consequence: A MISPRINTED LABEL COULD LEAD TO IMPROPER VEHICLE LOADING SPECIFICATIONS OR TIRE INFLATION WHICH COULD RESULT IN A TIRE FAILURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH CORRECTED LABELS AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. AT THE CUSTOMER'S OPTION, A DEALER CAN INSTALL THE LABEL FOR THEM. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, HUMMER AT 1-800-732-5493, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876, OR ISUZU AT 1-800-255-6727.

Negative 2006 Saturn Relay car reviews

  1. Orion Turner 2024-10-19

    I have owned my Relay for two years now, and although it has required some maintenance, I am confident in its reliability. The steering pump has been replaced once, and two steering columns and a new set of tie rods have been installed to ensure its safety. While the gas mileage is not as high as I had hoped, I am still satisfied with its performance. Additionally, the DVD player has been a hit with my kids, and the minivan has a sleek and stylish appearance.

  2. Brain Schuppe 2024-07-17

    This vehicle has an electrical issue that causes the lights to flicker, even to the point where oncoming cars flash their lights. Despite attempts to fix the issue by replacing the alternator, the Saturn dealership determined that this is a known quirk of this model. Additionally, the automatic side doors malfunctioned and had to be disabled after repeated opening and closing with the alarm beeping continuously. However, it is important to note that these issues do not detract from the overall quality of the vehicle.

  3. Larue Runte 2024-01-13

    I had an excellent experience with my first Saturn. The vehicle handles exceptionally well and comes with convenient features such as cargo trays, sliding doors, and a DVD player. The mileage is impressive, with 16 city and 24 highway. I did not encounter any fit or finish problems, and the minor issues I experienced, such as flickering lights, were promptly resolved by the dealer. The only remaining issue is with the radio, which does not receive any AM stations, although all FM stations come in perfectly.

  4. Jamison Hills 2024-01-09

    I am confident that the rough ride issue with my Saturn can be resolved. Despite having replaced the tires and conducted an extensive investigation, the dealership has yet to identify the root cause of the problem. However, I am determined to find a solution and will continue to work with the dealership until the issue is resolved. While this issue has been frustrating, I remain committed to finding a resolution and will not let it deter me from purchasing a Saturn in the future.

Positive 2006 Saturn Relay car reviews

  1. Lester Kris 2024-11-17

    If you're looking for an SUV with the spaciousness of a minivan, this is the perfect car for you! It has great gas mileage, plenty of room, and drives like a dream. Our family absolutely loves it!

  2. Donato Volkman 2024-10-16

    This ride is incredibly smooth! I absolutely love driving it, as well as riding in it. The outside noise is minimal to none, and it even comes with a DVD player as standard. It's just such a nice, fun, and reliable car.

  3. Rory Powlowski 2024-09-15

    I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your Relay! It sounds like it's been a great fit for you and your family. The gas mileage is definitely a plus, and having a DVD player and electrical outlet in the car must make road trips much more enjoyable. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!

  4. Declan Dibbert 2024-08-26

    I bought my Relay in November 2004 and I absolutely love going for drives with my family in it. However, I do wish that GM would provide better support for the issues it has had. Additionally, the recall that made the second row seats difficult to flip forward has made accessing the third row a bit inconvenient.

  5. Chaim Ledner 2024-07-04

    I tested most minivans before purchasing the Relay. It has great braking and handling, and is comfortable for long trips. I bought it with heavy incentives from GM, and I like it more than the Honda and Hyundai. I paid 7k less than most of the competition and it is a better minivan. You really can't beat that!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2006 Saturn Relay problems:

2006 Saturn Relay Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
2006 Saturn Relay Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2006-saturn-relay/problems

Problem with your 2006 Saturn Relay? Our list of 11 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2006 Saturn Relay.

Saturn Vue 2006 Idle Issue: Q&A on Engine Replacement Cost ...
Saturn Vue 2006 Idle Issue: Q&A on Engine Replacement Cost ...
https://www.justanswer.com/saturn/7jasb-saturn-vue-2006-having-idle-issue.html

Feb 3, 2013 ... To check for vacuum leaks, idle the engine cold and spray short burst of starting fluid on all vacuum and PCV hoses and the intake gaskets and ...

SOLVED: power sliding door malfunction - 2005-2007 Saturn Relay ...
SOLVED: power sliding door malfunction - 2005-2007 Saturn Relay ...
https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/80972/power+sliding+door+malfunction

Feb 25, 2012 ... Skip, just did a quick look around and it seems that this is a common problem. First check on the fuses in the instrument panel fuse box.

2006 Saturn Relay Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
2006 Saturn Relay Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
https://www.cars.com/research/saturn-relay-2006/consumer-reviews/

There have been problems with the DVD player overheating, the lighting flickers, a recurring check engine light and problems with the sliding door. One ...

My blower fan runs constantly even when I turn the car off and ...
My blower fan runs constantly even when I turn the car off and ...
https://www.justanswer.com/saturn/41ccz-blower-fan-runs-constantly-even-when-turn-car-off.html

Sep 26, 2010 ... I have a 2006 Saturn Vue is there a common problem with this? I had to remove the fuse because it was draining the battery. Share this ...

Other years of Saturn Relay

saturn relay 2007 photo
Relay 2007
Saturn

12

1

15

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
saturn relay 2005 photo
Relay 2005
Saturn

91

3

22

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
saturn relay 2006 photo
Relay 2006
Saturn

19

2

12

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2006 Saturn Relay photo