2008 Saturn Sky

The 2008 Saturn Sky is a sporty two-seat roadster that offers a fun driving experience. Two engine options were available: a 2.4L Ecotec inline-4 producing 177 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.0L Ecotec inline-4 producing 260 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque (the Red Line trim). Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners often praise the car’s stylish design, open-air driving experience, and (in Red Line form) the peppy turbocharged engine. Downsides often mentioned include limited storage space, a somewhat cramped interior, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.4L Ecotec Inline-4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft/crankshaft correlation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Purge Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, difficulty starting after refueling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the purge solenoid valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

2.0L Turbocharged Ecotec Inline-4 (Red Line)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining or screeching noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, extended cranking time, check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to fuel pressure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
• Boost Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, inconsistent boost levels, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the boost control solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Transmission

5-Speed Aisin AR5 Manual Transmission

• Synchro Wear/Grinding
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting, difficulty engaging gears (especially 2nd and 3rd).
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement, including synchro replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+

5-Speed 5L40-E Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, slipping during acceleration, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, valve body repair/replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lower in the rear, reduced ride quality, potential for bottoming out.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• Weak Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during cornering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Electrical

• Dim Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights appear dim or yellowed, reduced visibility at night.
  • Solution: Replacement of headlight bulbs (often due to age), or potentially addressing grounding issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
• Sticking Starter Solenoid
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noise when attempting to start the car, intermittent starting issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Failed Window Motor/Regulator
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly or not at all, grinding noise when operating the window.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor and/or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Exterior

• Convertible Top Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the convertible top, leaks, torn fabric.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the convertible top motor, hydraulic lines, or fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+

Interior

• Radio Display Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Radio display goes blank or becomes unreadable.
  • Solution: Replacement of the radio unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Recalls:

• 09009 - Hood may Open while Driving
• 07027 - Inadequate Hood Latch Engagement
• 09V044000 - Fuel Tank may leak in a Crash

Summary:

The 2008 Saturn Sky presents a mix of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly turbocharger failure in the Red Line models, can be costly. Transmission issues, especially with the automatic, are also a concern. Suspension and electrical problems are less severe but still require attention. Owners should be prepared for potential repairs related to the convertible top as well. Overall, while the Sky offers a fun driving experience, prospective buyers should factor in the potential for these issues and budget accordingly. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant repairs, with costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.