2008 Chevrolet Vectra

Introduction

The 2008 Chevrolet Vectra is a mid-size sedan that was available with a range of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 2.2-liter inline-four with 148 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque, which was mated to a five-speed manual transmission. A 2.8-liter V6 with 185 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque was also available, along with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the Vectra have praised the vehicle’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel economy. However, the car has also been criticized for its lack of power, especially with the base engine, and its somewhat bland styling.

Engine

2.2-liter inline-four

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks coolant, overheats
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks coolant, overheats
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.8-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Five-speed manual

• Clutch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Pedal goes to the floor, difficult to shift
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-speed automatic

• Slipping gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates to shift, or shifts into the wrong gear
  • Solution: Replace transmission solenoids, transmission rebuild
  • Estimated Cost: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut mounts failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise over bumps
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shock absorber failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Uncomfortable ride over bumps
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on, vehicle dies
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine cranks but does not start
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door handle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Handle breaks off
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air conditioning blend door failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning does not blow cold or hot air
  • Solution: Replace blend door actuator
  • Estimated Cost: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power window failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window does not operate
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2008 Chevrolet Vectra is a relatively reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems reported by owners include intake manifold gasket failure, head gasket failure, and clutch failure. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are not typically severe and can be prevented with regular maintenance.