2006 Saturn Vue
Introduction
The 2006 Saturn Vue is a compact SUV available with various engine and transmission options. The standard 2.2-liter Ecotec inline-four engine generates 143 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque. Other engine choices include a 3.5-liter V6 with 250 horsepower and 242 lb-ft of torque and a 3.6-liter V6 with 252 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options consist of a five-speed manual, a four-speed automatic, and a six-speed automatic. The Saturn Vue offers a spacious interior, comfortable ride, and decent fuel economy. However, it has received criticism for its lackluster performance and outdated cabin design.
Engine
2.2-liter Ecotec Inline-Four
Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idling, poor performance Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found
3.5-liter V6
Head Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, rough idling Solution: Replace head gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000 Recalls: None Found
3.6-liter V6
No Issues Found
Transmission
Five-Speed Manual
Shifting Difficulty Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises Solution: Replace or repair clutch or transmission components Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 Recalls: None Found
Four-Speed Automatic
Slipping Gears Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gear, delayed or erratic shifts Solution: Replace or repair transmission components Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000 Recalls: None Found
Six-Speed Automatic
No Issues Found
Suspension
Front Struts Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise, poor handling, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace front struts Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 Recalls: None Found
Rear Shock Absorbers Description/Symptoms: Bouncing rear end, unstable handling Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Battery Description/Symptoms: Electrical system failure, difficulty starting, dimming headlights Solution: Replace battery Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found
Alternator Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system failure, battery not charging Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Door Handles Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking off or becoming loose Solution: Replace door handles Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found
Interior
Dashboard Rattle Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise from dashboard Solution: Add padding or insulation to dashboard Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
Power Window Failure Description/Symptoms: Power windows not functioning Solution: Replace window motor or switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2006 Saturn Vue has several potential issues, with the most common being engine and transmission problems. Intake manifold gasket failure and head gasket failure are known issues with the 2.2-liter Ecotec inline-four and 3.5-liter V6 engines, respectively. Transmission problems include shifting difficulty with the five-speed manual and slipping gears with the four-speed automatic. The suspension system may also experience issues with the front struts and rear shock absorbers. Electrical problems can occur with the battery and alternator, while exterior issues are limited to broken door handles. The interior has reported issues with dashboard rattle and power window failure. The severity of these issues varies, with some being relatively minor and others potentially causing significant inconvenience or expense.