2007 Saturn Aura

2007 Saturn Aura

Overview

The 2007 Saturn Aura, a mid-size sedan, offered a blend of European-inspired styling and American practicality. It was available with several powertrain options, including a 2.4L Ecotec inline-4, a more potent 3.6L V6, and a performance-oriented 2.0L turbocharged variant. While generally considered a competent vehicle for its time, like any model, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.

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Engine

2.4L Ecotec (LE5)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Leaking oil from valve cover gasket or oil pan.
• Solution: Replacement of gasket or seal.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Timing Chain Issues

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

3.6L V6 (LLT)

Timing Chain Failure

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, stalling, rattling noise.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chains, tensioners, guides, and potentially camshaft phasers.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Intake Manifold Leaks

• Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, poor performance.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold.
• Cost: $300 - $600

2.0L Turbocharged Ecotec (LNF)

Turbocharger Issues

• Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise, smoke from exhaust.
• Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the turbocharger.
• Cost: $800 - $1800

PCV System Clogging

• Symptoms: Oil consumption, rough idle, potential engine sludge.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the PCV valve and related hoses.
• Cost: $100 - $250

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (AF32/AWDL)

Harsh Shifting

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement.
• Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change, potential solenoid replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or failure to engage.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $700 - $1500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Struts/Shocks

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, clunking noises over bumps.
• Solution: Replacement of struts and/or shocks.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Ball Joint and Bushing Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises, steering looseness, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and control arm bushings.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Failures

• Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, locks, lights, or dashboard indicators.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Premature Failure

• Symptoms: Battery warning light, dimming lights, starting issues.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Exterior

Body Panels

Rust Issues

• Symptoms: Corrosion on wheel wells, rocker panels, and door bottoms.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
• Cost: $200 - $1000+

Headlight Lenses

Clouding/Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced visibility at night, aesthetic degradation.
• Solution: Restoration kits or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $100 - $400

Interior

HVAC System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or direct airflow.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Seat Fabric

Excessive Wear

• Symptoms: Tearing or thinning of fabric on driver’s seat bolsters.
• Solution: Seat cover replacement or professional repair.
• Cost: $150 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2007 Saturn Aura presents a mixed reliability profile. The most significant concerns revolve around the 3.6L V6 engine’s timing chain issues and potential torque converter problems in the automatic transmission. While the 2.4L Ecotec and 2.0L Turbo engines have their own specific issues like oil leaks and turbo problems, they are generally less severe than the V6 timing chain concerns. Suspension components and some electrical issues, particularly with the BCM and alternator, are also noted. Owners should be aware of these potential repair costs when considering this vehicle. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to early symptoms can help mitigate some of these reliability challenges.