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2004 Saturn Vue

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By Research the Car 5 min read

The 2004 Saturn Vue was a compact SUV offered with a few different powertrain options. The base engine was a 2.2L Ecotec inline-4 producing 143 hp and 152 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 3.5L Honda-sourced V6 producing 250 hp and 242 lb-ft of torque was also available, exclusively paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Uniquely, Saturn also offered a hybrid version called the Vue Green Line which featured a 2.2L Ecotec I4 paired with an electric motor to produce 143 hp and 129 lb-ft of torque combined. Owners generally appreciated the Vue’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and distinctive styling. Common dislikes included perceived cheap interior materials, unrefined engine options (excluding the Honda V6), and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec I4

  • Timing Chain Wear/Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise from the engine, particularly at startup or when accelerating. The check engine light may illuminate with codes related to timing misalignment. Severe cases can result in engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are fairly common, often originating from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. This can cause oil consumption, low oil pressure, and potential engine damage if left unaddressed.
    • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found

3.5L Honda V6

  • Valve Adjustment
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from engine, rough running, difficulty starting.
    • Solution: Valve Adjustment.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • VTEC Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idling, check engine light with VTEC related codes.
    • Solution: Replacement of VTEC solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.2L Ecotec I4)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear. Slipping during acceleration or inability to maintain speed uphill.
    • Solution: In some cases, a fluid flush and filter change may improve the condition. In more severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (Paired with 3.5L Honda V6)

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during lock-up, slipping, stalling.
    • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear. Slipping during acceleration or inability to maintain speed uphill.
    • Solution: In some cases, a fluid flush and filter change may improve the condition. In more severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Strut Mount Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can also affect handling and tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts. It is generally recommended to replace both front strut mounts at the same time.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (for both front struts)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Sway Bar Link Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear sway bar links.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of one or more power windows. This is often caused by a faulty window motor or regulator.
    • Solution: Replacement of the window motor and/or regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headlight Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Headlights may flicker, dim, or fail completely. This is often caused by a faulty headlight bulb, ballast (if equipped with HID headlights), or wiring issue.
    • Solution: Replacement of the headlight bulb, ballast, or repair of the wiring issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust is common on the lower body panels, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
    • Solution: Repairing rust can range from sanding and painting small areas to replacing entire body panels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the severity and location of the rust.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may leak, become stuck, or make excessive noise when opening or closing.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges stop working, lights fail, or the entire cluster goes blank.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.2L Ecotec Hybrid Motor

  • Battery Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, decreased power, frequent engine starts, and eventual inability to start the vehicle.
    • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.2L Ecotec Hybrid Transmission

No Issues Found

Summary:

The 2004 Saturn Vue can be a decent vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. The severity of these issues ranges from minor electrical glitches to more serious engine and transmission problems. The costs associated with repairs can vary widely, but addressing potential issues proactively can help prevent more expensive repairs down the road. The 2.2L engine is more prone to timing chain and oil leak issues. The Honda-sourced V6 is fairly reliable but can have some expensive issues with the transmission. Rust is another common issue, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Overall, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is recommended to assess the vehicle’s condition and identify any potential problems. The hybrid model can have expensive battery replacement costs.

Saturn, Vue
Saturn Vue 2004
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