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: 2003
Always reliable, with no unexpected or unreasonable repairs. Great in snow and ice!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I'm so glad you found a great deal on a used 2008 Vue XR with only 43K miles! The 1 owner Carfax with no history of any issues is definitely a plus. It's great to hear that you love the look and feel of the car when driving it. It's also good to know that it rides better than the Hyundai Santa Fe you test drove. I understand that the seats could be a little softer and the cloth does stain easily, but it's still a great car for the price. Although the gas mileage on the V6 isn't the best at 16-18, it's still better than the slug 4 cylinder you drove. Overall, it sounds like you're really enjoying this SUV, almost as much as you did your 1993 Rodeo!
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Vehicle year: 2004
This vehicle blends performance, style, and great gas mileage. You'll easily exceed EPA mpg figures with 'realistic' driving patterns. It's great for long distance trips, and it's the most comfortable and enjoyable-to-drive vehicle I've owned to date.
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Vehicle year: 2003
What a heartwarming story! It's always great to hear about a car that has been reliable and cost-effective. This 2003 Vue was actually the first car my wife bought on her own, and we got it for a great price of $1450. Even though we've only had it for 7 months, it has already clocked up 20,000 miles and it's still going strong. Of course, with 255,000 miles on the clock, it does need a new clutch, but that's to be expected. We recently took it on a trip to the beach and it performed amazingly, getting almost 35 mpg even with 5 people and luggage packed in. In fact, it only cost us $12 to drive there! We actually got rid of our 2012 Sonic because it just wasn't as fuel-efficient as the Vue. Needless to say, we absolutely love our Vue and plan on keeping it for a long time to come.
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Vehicle year: 2007
After extensive research and test driving, we confidently chose the VUE as our new SUV. The sales staff were exceptional and helped us find the perfect car that fit our budget. We opted for leather seats, V6 engine, enhanced stereo, alloy 17
Are you having problems with your Saturn Vue?
Cortez Kuvalis 2025-08-20
Vehicle year: 2002
I've owned the '02 Vue for a year now. During that time, I've had to replace/repair a few things, including the throttle body, the entire engine wiring harness, and deal with the SES light coming on every other month for something. Additionally, there have been leaks into the cabin from the sunroof. In total, I've spent about $3,000 on repairs during the 46-56,000 mile period. While the car has good overall performance, the repairs have kept me from fully enjoying it. Now, there are weird noises coming from the drive train, which is a dull roar. Like many others, I bought this car for its perceived value for the price. However, I wouldn't buy another Vue again. If you're in the market for a similar vehicle, I recommend looking at the Ford Escape 4wd or a Jeep instead.
Royal Roberts 2025-08-18
Vehicle year: 2002
The car's engine light and wrench light came on just one month after purchase. Additionally, the DRLs and horn have been malfunctioning. Unfortunately, the vehicle is currently unable to start. While I was able to reset the security system once before to fix a similar issue, this time it seems to be more serious. It is not recommended to purchase this car.
Kim Schoen 2025-08-12
Vehicle year: 2003
The 2003 Saturn Vue 4 cylinder with a 5 speed manual transmission is a great buy for its quality and price. With 105,000 miles on it, it is still running strong and is a fun car to drive. Although there is room for improvement in terms of stain-free carpets and a quieter ride, overall it is a reliable and enjoyable vehicle. While Saturn customer service could be improved, I have found this car to be worth the investment.
Chester Kutch 2025-08-08
Vehicle year: 2004
I was pleasantly surprised to read your review of the Vue, as I had come across many negative ones. It's great to hear that you have had such a positive experience with your car over the past four years. It's impressive that you have had no service issues, other than the rear suspension recall. Your fuel economy is also impressive, averaging 20 mpg city and 26-28 mpg hwy. The Vue has many pros, including crisp exterior styling, 17
Cullen Kulas 2025-07-25
Vehicle year: 2002
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my VUE that I purchased just over a month ago with 48000 miles on the clock. Overall, I'm happy with my purchase! The VUE has been performing well in the recent drastic weather, both in the snow and on warm, dry days. It's also quite comfortable and doesn't tire me out on long drives. While it's not perfect and has some minor issues like noisy steering at low speeds and rattling suspension on less than perfect blacktop, it runs fine and has been a reliable ride. The fuel economy is also adequate, about 22 mpg overall. Thanks for listening!