What are the most common Saturn Vue problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2002 Saturn Vue has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Vue VTi CVT Catastrophic Failure (2002-2005), Front Subframe / Lateral Link Corrosion in Salt-Belt Regions, VTi (VT25-E) Continuously Variable Transmission Failure. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Saturn Vue reliable?
The 2002 Saturn Vue has 4 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Vue VTi CVT Catastrophic Failure (2002-2005) and Front Subframe / Lateral Link Corrosion in Salt-Belt Regions and VTi (VT25-E) Continuously Variable Transmission Failure and Ignition Key Can Be Removed When Not in 'Off' — Rollaway Recall (14V490). 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 Vue problems?
Repair costs for known Saturn Vue issues range from $1,200 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Vue VTi CVT Catastrophic Failure (2002-2005), typically costs $1,200-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2002-2005 Saturn Vue Vue VTi CVT Catastrophic Failure (2002-2005)?
Early Saturn Vue (2002-2005) was offered with the GM VT25 (VTi) continuously-variable transmission paired with the 2.2L Ecotec. The CVT was infamously unreliable — failure rates so high that GM extended warranty to 5 years/75,000 miles, and many independents won't touch them. Sym… Repairs typically run $1,200-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2007 Saturn Vue Front Subframe / Lateral Link Corrosion in Salt-Belt Regions?
Owners in northern, road-salt states report premature corrosion of the front subframe/cradle and rear lateral (suspension) links on early Vues, with cases of the subframe rusting through and causing unstable steering. GM acknowledged related rear lateral-link issues, and rear whe… Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2005 Saturn Vue VTi (VT25-E) Continuously Variable Transmission Failure?
The 4-cylinder Vue's VTi CVT was GM's first high-volume CVT and proved badly unreliable, with the steel push-belt and related components wearing out prematurely. Owners experienced slipping, shuddering, jerky/erratic shifting, loud whining on acceleration, and sudden power loss,… Repairs typically run $3,500-$5,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2004 Saturn Vue Ignition Key Can Be Removed When Not in 'Off' — Rollaway Recall (14V490)?
On affected 2002-2004 Vue vehicles, the ignition lock cylinder can wear such that the key may be removed when the ignition is not in the 'Off' position. If the key is pulled with an automatic transmission not in Park (or a manual without the parking brake set), the vehicle can ro… Severity: high.
