What are the most common Saturn Aura problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2008 Saturn Aura has 9 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch, Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist, 3.6L V6 (LY7) Stretched Timing Chains. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Saturn Aura reliable?
The 2008 Saturn Aura has 9 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch and Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist and 3.6L V6 (LY7) Stretched Timing Chains and Transmission Shift Cable Fracture (Rollaway Risk). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Saturn Aura problems?
Repair costs for known Saturn Aura issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch, typically costs $1,800-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch?
The GM 3.6L LY7/LLT "High Feature" V6 in 2007-2009 Saturn Aura XR (and shared Chevy Malibu / Pontiac G6 / Cadillac CTS) develops timing chain stretch typically by 80,000-150,000 miles. Same root cause family as the LLT in Enclave/LaCrosse/Acadia — extended oil intervals starve th… Repairs typically run $1,800-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2009 Saturn Aura Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering Assist?
The electric power steering (EPS) system on certain 2008-2009 Auras can suddenly lose assist while driving due to a faulty torque sensor or EPS motor/controller. Drivers reported the steering going heavy without warning, sometimes mid-turn, greatly increasing steering effort at l… Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura 3.6L V6 (LY7) Stretched Timing Chains?
The early GM 3.6L high-feature V6 (used in Aura XR) is prone to premature timing chain stretch, sometimes appearing as early as 50,000-100,000 miles. As the chains wear, camshaft-to-crankshaft timing drifts out of spec, setting correlation codes and eventually causing rough runni… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Transmission Shift Cable Fracture (Rollaway Risk)?
The plastic shift cable end fitting or its retaining tabs can wear out and fracture on automatic-transmission Auras. When this happens, the gear indicator may show 'Park' (or the wrong gear) while the transmission is actually still in Drive, Reverse, or Neutral, and the driver ma… Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: high.
What is the 2008 Saturn Aura Body Control Module Connection Corrosion (Brake Lights / Cruise)?
Increased resistance can develop in the Body Control Module (BCM) electrical connection on 2008 Auras, causing voltage fluctuations. This can affect exterior lighting (including brake lights), electronic stability control, vehicle speed control (cruise), and related systems, crea… Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2008 Saturn Aura Premature Warped Front Brake Rotors?
First-generation Auras (especially 2007) are widely reported to warp their front brake rotors prematurely, producing steering-wheel and front-end shimmy under braking. Owners report rotors warping within a few thousand miles and needing repeated resurfacing or replacement, in som… Repairs typically run $250-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura 2.4L Ecotec Excessive Oil Consumption?
Auras with the 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder (XE) can develop high oil consumption as they age, often attributed to worn piston oil-control rings allowing oil past the rings into the combustion chamber. Owners report burning roughly a quart every 1,000-2,000 miles, which can lead to… Repairs typically run $0-$3,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura 3.6L Random/Multiple-Cylinder Misfire?
The 3.6L V6 Auras are reported to throw misfire codes, frequently as a downstream symptom of the stretched timing chains but also from worn ignition coils/spark plugs or carbon buildup on the direct-injection intake valves. Owners experience rough idle, hesitation, and a check en… Repairs typically run $150-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura EVAP Canister Purge Valve Failure (Check Engine Light)?
Auras commonly throw EVAP emissions faults, most often from a stuck-open or failing canister purge solenoid/valve (and sometimes a clogged charcoal canister or faulty fuel-tank pressure sensor). The result is a persistent check engine light and potential emissions-test failure. T… Repairs typically run $100-$350. Severity: low.
