2005 Saturn Vue

The 2005 Saturn Vue was available with several engine options: a 2.2L Ecotec Inline-4 producing 143 hp and 152 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5L Honda-sourced V6 producing 250 hp and 242 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 producing 181 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual (I4 only), a 4-speed automatic, and a CVT (I4 only, discontinued mid-year). Owners often appreciated the Vue’s spacious interior and fuel efficiency (particularly with the 4-cylinder), but some disliked its bland styling and the CVT’s performance.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec Inline-4

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing piston rings can help mitigate the issue. In severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to engine misfires and failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, guides, and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L Honda-Sourced V6

• Valve Adjustment
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when cold. Can eventually lead to rough running and decreased performance if the valve lash becomes too tight.
  • Solution: Performing a valve adjustment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (All V6 Engines)

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears. Can be caused by low fluid, worn solenoids, or internal damage.
  • Solution: Fluid change, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT (2.2L Ecotec Inline-4)

• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise, hesitation, slipping, or complete failure of the CVT. These transmissions were known to have issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise that changes with vehicle speed.
  • Solution: Replacing the wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges failing to work or displaying incorrect information.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window/Door Lock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the window motor, door lock actuator, or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per window/door lock
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels/Rear Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming along the lower body panels, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair, bodywork, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching from the roof and sagging.
  • Solution: Replacing the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Door Handles (Interior)
  • Description/Symptoms: Interior door handles breaking or becoming detached from the door.
  • Solution: Replacing the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Saturn Vue has a range of potential issues depending on the engine and transmission configuration. The 2.2L Ecotec engine can suffer from oil consumption and timing chain problems. The Honda-sourced 3.5L V6 is generally reliable but may need valve adjustments. The V6 engines are paired with the 4-speed automatic transmission that can experience shifting issues. The CVT on the 2.2L is known to be unreliable. Suspension and electrical issues, along with rust, are also common. Repair costs can vary widely, from minor fixes to major engine or transmission work. The CVT is the most costly issue that can befall the vehicle.