Saturn Vue problems
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Saturn Vue model years
Common Saturn Vue problems
The Saturn Vue, an affordable family crossover, has received mixed impressions on its reliability over the years. One of the most significant issues faced by Saturn Vue drivers is faulty transmission, particularly in models equipped with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). This issue has been a common complaint across various Saturn Vue model years, causing inconvenience and potentially leading to more severe problems.
Another area of concern for Saturn Vue owners is the engine. Some drivers have reported engine problems such as rough idling, misfires, and harsh rattling noises coming from the engine bay. These issues have been more prevalent in specific engines, like the 2.4-liter hybrid engine and the 3.0-liter V6 engine. However, engines like the 2.2-liter EcoTec engine made by GM and the 3.5-liter V6 engine made by Honda have been relatively reliable, with few to no reports of engine troubles. Therefore, the engine option of the Saturn Vue can significantly impact its reliability.
Additionally, the Saturn Vue has faced issues with the steering knuckle separating from the control arm, causing steering problems. This issue can lead to the vehicle dragging to one side and even trigger tire rod fractures. Although GM recognized this problem and issued a recall to address it, primarily for older first-generation Saturn Vues, steering issues can still be a concern for potential buyers. Properly checking the steering system before purchasing a used Saturn Vue is crucial to ensure safe and controlled driving.
In conclusion, the Saturn Vue has faced various issues over the years, primarily related to transmission, engine problems, and steering knuckle separation. Understanding these common problems can help potential buyers make informed decisions when purchasing a used Saturn Vue, focusing on reliable engine options and thoroughly checking the steering system.
What is the most common problem with Saturn Vue?
Despite its high reliability rating, the Vue isn't perfect. Its most common problems include transmission issues, engine misfires, and ignition malfunction.
Is the Saturn Vue reliable?
Saturn Vue Ratings Overview
The average rating is a 4.2 out of 5 stars.
Do Saturn vues have transmission problems?
Best Answer
These transmissions in the v-6 Saturn vue models only( as well as the Saturn outlook, gmc Acadia, Buick enclave, and Chevy traverse) are all prone to transmission failure up until the 2010 model year.
Did the Saturn Vue have a Honda engine?
V6 models received Honda's J35S1 engine and Honda transmission. This 3.5 liter engine and 5 speed transmission boosted performance over the prior V-6. It was an important selling point at the time. This V-6 engine was used in the Saturn Vue 2004 to 2007 model years.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Saturn Vue years
We have researched Saturn problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Saturn Vue cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Saturn Vue model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Saturn Vue model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Saturn Vue years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Saturn Vue car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Saturn Vue , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Saturn Vue vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Vue model years
A total of 134 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 Vue model years
There were a total of 47 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 Vue model years
There were a total of 106 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Vue model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2392 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Saturn Vue . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Saturn Vue vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Saturn Vue 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- 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: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-20
- 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 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- 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
Saturn Vue 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-02
- VIN: 3GSDL63768S
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 2008 Saturn vue AWD. Steering wheel is very difficult to turn while driving. There is a lot of resistance. No leaking fluid visible and no visible loss of fluid levels. Transmission was torn down/repaired in 2017 for metal bits present at 95,000 (approximate) miles. It is currently at 107,600 miles. Transmission gets stuck in lower gear and rpms Rev up without the vehicle gaining acceleration. The tear down/rebuild was due to bad 3 5 wave plate also and seems to be replicating the issue again. Check engine light comes on amd goes off intermittently and cannot get issue to replicate at the mechanics. Key has also gotten stuck in the barrel. Took almost 2 hours to try numerous ways to get it to release-also had to unlock manually on the door handle, none of the lights inside worked and when it was able to get started it was very slow and deliberate. Battery appeared to be dead but after jump starting and taking to have it checked, battery was found to be fine. These are serious concerns regarding the vehicle as 1 or all could cause serious damage to the driver and others on the road. It happened again today with the high rpms and low gear/not shifting to next gear.
Saturn Vue 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving 35 MPH, the vehicle shuddered violently. The contact's daughter lost control of the vehicle and drove off the road before coming to a complete stop. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who determined that the torque converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 89,973. The VIN was unavailable.
Saturn Vue 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-29
- VIN: 5GZCZ33Z97S
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: [Wednesday 4:11 PM] Rosales, Denise CTR (NHTSA) The contact owns a 2007 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to engage in hybrid mode the morning after being purchased. In addition, the vehicle failed to start and maintain battery power. The vehicle was towed to 2 different independent mechanics and 1 independent mechanic who came to the residence where it was diagnosed that the vehicle did not have hybrid functions possibly due to the battery failing to maintain power. The contact stated the battery was replaced however the failures remained present. An appointment with the dealer was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 66,000.
Saturn Vue 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 5GZCZ33D77S
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I was driving and pulled up to get some gas and put my car in park it just stop and turned off and I haven’t been able to get it back on. Went and saw a mechanic and he said it was the timing chain on the car it only had 97,000 miles on it and it would shake while I’m in ideal
Saturn Vue 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-07
- VIN: 3GSCL53788S
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When you drive the car the transmission fails. less than 48 hours ago I just bought this 2008 Saturn vue certified pre owned and I’ve been reading a lot of review’s about the specific model of car and a lot of other people that have had this car has had the same common experience I will attach a screenshot of what I’m talking about down below I seriously think someone should look into this issue because not only do I think this vehicle isn’t mechanically safe to be sold and driven on the road but the majority of the community that has owned one of these cars would agree to what I have to say
Saturn Vue 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-17
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-05
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5GZCZ63484S
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission has Lube issues for Honda and TRANSGO HONDALK fixes that but requires several hours labor pulling transmission. Transmission and torque converter overheat causing failure. Mine overheated and stalled crossing traffic, wouldn't go into gear. Caused accident.
Saturn Vue 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-17
- VIN: 3GSCL33P28S
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Vehicle seatbelt is fraying on driver side. Tried to cut off the fray, but realized it continues fraying everytime I use the belt. Have called multiple gm dealers as well as the 800 number for GM. From their info and checking websites, the parts for the seatbelts for this model vehicle have been discontinued. this includes the 2008-10 saturn vue and the 2010-2015 chevy captiva (which is the same car). I am shocked that I have to purchase replacement seatbelts from a junkyard or other used method. Seatbelts are something that I should have ability to replace new. Once GM dealer seemed concern and related that they thought that GM had to replace new ones. Another autoshop stated that this was a recall-type problem on some GM vehicles - but mine does not show this sort of thing. First noticed around 9/11/2023. Bought vehicle on 9/9/2023. Thought it was dog or cat hair until I educated myself online and realized the belt is slowly disintegrating.
Saturn Vue 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-11
- VIN: 5GZCZ634X6S
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Saturn Vue. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 43,097.
Saturn Vue 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-01
- VIN: 3GSDL43NX8S
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: When driving transmission power train having difficult time changing gears
Saturn Vue 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5GZCZ33D37S
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving on the highway, on the way to the beach with my family and our pup! We heard a pop and thought maybe it was the tire but the engine began smoking. I pulled the vehicle over as safely as possible. I popped the hood and there was a fire. Everyone evacuated the vehicle as quickly and safely as possible. I was the last to get out of the vehicle. Within minutes the entire vehicle was engulfed in flames. We stood there and watched the only vehicle we have completely burn up. I cried and I watched my kids cry. What was supposed to be a beach day for us to distress and relax turned into us almost losing our lives on the highway. We are thankful for the state trooper, the fire department, and the paramedics who all arrived on scene and kept my family safe. Im thankful our lives weren’t lost. However we still faced a life or death situation today.
Saturn Vue 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-07
- VIN: 5GZCZ33D37S
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Key is easily removable when in on position. Also difficult to turn from lock position.
Saturn Vue 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-12
- VIN: 3GSCL13708S
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that there was oil leaking underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V470000 (Steering) and referred the contact to the manufacturer. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was not under recall and that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V470000 (Steering). The failure mileage was 83,000.
Latest 5 recalls Saturn Vue
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the Saturn Vue.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Saturn Vue 2004
- Report Received Date: 2014-08-08
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2002-2004 Saturn Vue vehicles manufactured September 11, 2001, to April 6, 2004. In the affected vehicles, it may be possible for the key to be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.
- Consequence: If the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "off" position, the vehicle could roll away: (a) for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in the "Park" position; or (b) for a manual transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is not in the "Reverse" position. This potential for rollaway increases the risk for a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle to see if the key can be pulled out when the ignition is off. If it can, dealers will replace the ignition cylinder and keys, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 14506. Note: Until a vehicle has been remedied, owners and operators are advised that when exiting, to be sure that the vehicle is in "Park," or in the case of a manual transmission, that the vehicle is in the "Reverse" position and the parking brake is engaged.
- Model: Saturn Vue 2003
- Report Received Date: 2014-08-08
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2002-2004 Saturn Vue vehicles manufactured September 11, 2001, to April 6, 2004. In the affected vehicles, it may be possible for the key to be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.
- Consequence: If the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "off" position, the vehicle could roll away: (a) for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in the "Park" position; or (b) for a manual transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is not in the "Reverse" position. This potential for rollaway increases the risk for a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle to see if the key can be pulled out when the ignition is off. If it can, dealers will replace the ignition cylinder and keys, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 14506. Note: Until a vehicle has been remedied, owners and operators are advised that when exiting, to be sure that the vehicle is in "Park," or in the case of a manual transmission, that the vehicle is in the "Reverse" position and the parking brake is engaged.
- Model: Saturn Vue 2002
- Report Received Date: 2014-08-08
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2002-2004 Saturn Vue vehicles manufactured September 11, 2001, to April 6, 2004. In the affected vehicles, it may be possible for the key to be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.
- Consequence: If the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "off" position, the vehicle could roll away: (a) for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in the "Park" position; or (b) for a manual transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is not in the "Reverse" position. This potential for rollaway increases the risk for a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicle to see if the key can be pulled out when the ignition is off. If it can, dealers will replace the ignition cylinder and keys, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 14506. Note: Until a vehicle has been remedied, owners and operators are advised that when exiting, to be sure that the vehicle is in "Park," or in the case of a manual transmission, that the vehicle is in the "Reverse" position and the parking brake is engaged.
- Model: Saturn Vue 2008
- Report Received Date: 2009-06-25
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Summary: GM IS RECALLING 44,451 MY 2008 SATURN VUE VEHICLES WITH BODY COLOR OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLES. THE OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLES MAY STICK OR BIND. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE DOOR MAY NOT LATCH WHEN CLOSED.
- Consequence: DRIVING WITH AN UNLATCHED DOOR COULD RESULT IN AN UNBELTED OCCUPANT FALLING OUT OF THE VEHICLE, CAUSING INCREASED RISK OF INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLES WITH CHROME DOOR HANDLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 18, 2009. OWNER MAY CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876 OR AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.
- Model: Saturn Vue 2009
- Report Received Date: 2008-11-24
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:KNUCKLE:SPINDLE:ARM
- Summary: GM IS RECALLING 2,149 MY 2009 SATURN VUE VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN INCORRECT RIGHT AND/OR LEFT FRONT STEERING KNUCKLE. AS A RESULT OF THE INCORRECT KNUCKLE AND RESULTING INADEQUATE CLEARANCE, THE TIE ROD BALL STUD COULD PULL OUT OF, OR FRACTURE, THE TIE ROD HOUSING. THIS COULD CAUSE THE TIE ROD TO SEPARATE FROM THE KNUCKLE.
- Consequence: ALTHOUGH STEERING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE COULD BE MAINTAINED AFTER A TIE ROD SEPARATION BY THE UNAFFECTED WHEEL ON SMOOTH ROADS OR DURING LIGHT BRAKING, WITH MORE SIGNIFICANT SUSPENSION OR BRAKING INPUTS, THE AFFECTED WHEEL COULD TURN OUT AND SKID. IF A VEHICLE BUILT WITH TWO INCORRECT STEERING KNUCKLES HAD BOTH TIE RODS SEPARATE AT THE SAME TIME, STEERING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE WOULD BE LOST, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING KNUCKLES AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE STEERING KNUCKLE(S) AND TIE ROD(S). THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 8, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876 OR THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AT HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM .
Latest negative Saturn Vue car reviews
Latest positive Saturn Vue car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2005
I purchased my VUE for an incredible price of just $16,700. For such a low cost, I was able to obtain a reliable, comfortable, and safe small SUV with a plethora of extras. These include an electric sunroof, power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control, tachometer, temperature gauge, air conditioning, rear defrost, power mirrors, compass and outside temperature display, premium sound system with CD and MP3 capabilities, full fold-down seats, rear wiper and washer, 17
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Vehicle year: 2005
If you're looking for an SUV that combines the speed and performance of a sports car, you'll absolutely love the Saturn VUE Redline. We have the Black V6 available, and I highly recommend it over the 4 banger. The 250 hp Honda motor is incredibly powerful, but the AWD keeps it stable on the road. I encourage you to consider the VUE and enjoy the feeling of passing those gas-guzzling lunch box SUVs.
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Vehicle year: 2002
What can I say? I love this car. It's spacious, roomy, and very comfortable.
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Vehicle year: 2005
This vehicle is beautifully styled with plenty of room. The leather seats are comfortable and the grocery containment bins are fantastic. It has been very dependable, with only one issue to deal with in 50,000 miles - the driver side seat heater stopped working. However, they fixed it within a week with a new part. I have always received great service with every oil change and routine maintenance.
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Vehicle year: 2006
I'm so happy with my VUE! It's still early days, but I'm really pleased with my purchase. I was looking for a car that could comfortably fit my family, while also being fuel efficient for my daily commute. The VUE ticks both boxes, with a spacious cabin and an efficient engine that gets around 32 miles to the gallon (and that's with a 5 speed manual transmission!). The dealership was also a breath of fresh air, with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere that made the whole experience stress-free.
Are you having problems with your Saturn Vue?
Orlando Torp 2024-11-26
Vehicle year: 2009
The vehicle's build quality and engineering are substandard, and the spare tire placement is ineffective. The car shakes, rattles, and rolls, and the interior is made of cheap plastic. In comparison to other well-engineered vehicles in its class, there is much to be desired. It may be difficult to dispose of this vehicle, as it does not meet the standards of a well-engineered car.
Cordelia Hermiston 2024-11-26
Vehicle year: 2005
I bought my Saturn View in October of 2005. Unfortunately, the gas gauge broke at 5000 miles and then at 12000 miles there was an electrical problem causing the daytime running lights to stay on. The car died and I had to have it towed, which was a bit of a hassle. However, the dealer was able to cover everything and was very helpful throughout the process. Although it was a bit of an inconvenience, I'm glad that everything was taken care of in the end.
Jeffry Kuhic 2024-11-19
Vehicle year: 2003
I wish I had done better research. Although it fit the bill of decent mileage for a small SUV, it has been causing trouble every few months since I purchased it with 80,000 miles. I'm planning to sell it as soon as I get a chance! The transmission would be covered by my extended warranty, but unfortunately, it's not just the transmission that's causing issues. I keep having to pay for the wires, modules, and connections that lead to the transmission. However, I'm grateful for the extended warranty, as it has helped me with other issues like leaky valves, wheel bearing replacement, and other misfires. I would advise against buying one of these vehicles, as they are cheaply made. The whole exterior is plastic, and the mechanics are of equal quality.
Gerard Spinka 2024-11-11
Vehicle year: 2006
I am confident in my assessment that my Saturn SL1 was a reliable car, with only one issue occurring in its sixth year of use. However, my Vue, which I purchased new in December 2005, has already experienced the same problem twice in just two years. Despite taking it to the shop, the issue remains unresolved and I am left feeling frustrated. In addition, I have noticed other issues such as a feeling of instability when driving on the highway and a lack of heat in the driver's seat. As an expert in this matter, I believe it is important to address these issues promptly and effectively.
Coy Collier 2024-10-27
Vehicle year: 2007
I have experienced numerous issues with my car, including a persistent noise that has not been resolved despite multiple visits to the dealership. The car has required frequent repairs, such as wheel bearing replacements and brake replacements every six months. The most recent incident occurred when the car lost power and all the warning lights on the dashboard illuminated. As a responsible driver and mother of two, I am disappointed with the poor quality of the vehicle and the inadequate customer service provided by the dealership.