The 2009 Saturn Outlook is a large crossover SUV that was part of GM's "Lambda" platform. Produced from 2007 to 2010, it offered seating for up to eight passengers. Key trims included XE, XR, and the top-of-the-line Red Line. The 2009 Outlook was popular for its spacious interior, car-like handling, and attractive styling. Original pricing ranged from approximately $30,000 to $45,000.
The Good
The 2009 Saturn Outlook boasts a comfortable ride and a spacious, well-designed interior, appealing to families needing ample passenger and cargo space (practical). Its relatively stylish exterior compared to competitors and smooth engine contribute to a more enjoyable driving experience (emotional). Good value for the size and features offered were also noted.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2009 Saturn Outlook include possible transmission issues, timing chain problems, and susceptibility to water leaks. Be wary of high mileage examples and ensure thorough inspection of these key components prior to purchase. Electrical issues were also sometimes reported.
2009 Saturn Outlook: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.6L V6
- Standard: 288 horsepower
- Red Line: minor tweaks for slightly improved performance
- Horsepower: 288 hp (standard)
- Fuel Economy:
- FWD: 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- AWD: 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 8.0 - 8.5 seconds (depending on configuration)
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,200 lbs (when properly equipped)
- Trim-Level Features:
- XE (Base): Cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and basic audio system.
- XR (Upgrade): Leather upholstery, heated front seats, upgraded audio system, tri-zone climate control, alloy wheels, and available sunroof.
- Red Line (Top-Tier): Unique exterior and interior styling cues (red stitching, special wheels), upgraded suspension, and some additional features over the XR trim. Note: The Red Line was introduced later in the model year.
- Safety Features (All Trims): Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, and multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain).
2009 Saturn Outlook Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Saturn |
| Model | Outlook |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Multi Purpose Vehicle |
| Category | Passenger Van |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | WENTZVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 7000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LU1 |
| Engine Size | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive Luxury |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Saturn Outlook Have?
The 2009 Saturn Outlook has some frequently reported problems that prospective buyers should be aware of. Timing chain issues are a common concern, especially in models where regular oil changes were neglected. Symptoms include engine noise and potential engine damage if left unaddressed. The transmission can also experience problems, such as hard shifting or complete failure, particularly at higher mileage. Some owners have reported water leaks, often through the sunroof or windshield seals, leading to potential mold or electrical issues. Electrical problems, including issues with the power windows, locks, and audio system, are not uncommon. Recalls for the 2009 Outlook have addressed issues related to the side impact airbags and potential fuel pump failures. Long-term reliability can be a concern due to these potential issues, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly recommended. Check for service records showing evidence of regular maintenance and any past repairs related to these known problems.
How long will the 2009 Saturn Outlook last?
With proper maintenance, a 2009 Saturn Outlook can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, average mileage will vary greatly depending on maintenance habits. Models with diligent maintenance may last 12-15 years. Long-term durability is affected by the previously mentioned timing chain and transmission issues. Neglecting oil changes and other scheduled maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan. Rust can become a factor in regions with harsh winters. Regular fluid changes, timely repairs, and rust prevention measures are crucial for maximizing the Outlook's lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 Saturn Outlook offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included a basic audio system with CD player and auxiliary input, power windows and locks, and keyless entry. Higher trims added features like a premium Bose audio system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and a navigation system. Driver-assistance features were limited, but included available rear parking sensors. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, and multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain airbags). Optional features included all-wheel drive (AWD) for improved traction in inclement weather and a sunroof. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) were generally positive, with the Outlook earning good scores in frontal and side-impact crash tests. The specific ratings can vary depending on the year and test criteria, so it's recommended to consult official sources for detailed crash-test information. Keep in mind that technology and safety standards have advanced significantly since 2009.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Carbon Black Metallic
Dark Cherry Metallic
Gold Mist Metallic
Silver Moss Metallic
Summit White
Dark Blue Metallic
Red Jewel Tintcoat
Interior Colors
Titanium
Ebony
Cocoa
2009 Saturn Outlook Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2009 Saturn Outlook ranged from approximately $30,000 to $45,000, depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Outlook has depreciated significantly due to its age, brand discontinuation (Saturn), and potential reliability concerns. Factors affecting resale value include its overall condition, documented maintenance history, mileage, and whether any major repairs have been performed (e.g., transmission replacement). Lower mileage, well-maintained examples command a higher price.
2009 Saturn Outlook Cost of Ownership
The 2009 Saturn Outlook is generally considered moderately costly to own. Insurance costs are average for its class. Fuel economy is subpar, impacting running costs. Maintenance and repair can be expensive due to potential issues with the timing chain, transmission, and electrical components. Long-term ownership costs can be high if major repairs are needed. Budgeting for potential repairs is advisable. It's not the most economical choice in its class.
2009 Saturn Outlook Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2009 Saturn Outlook Safety Rating
NHTSA
2009 Saturn Outlook Recalls & Defects
Seat Belts
Recall date
2010-08-12
Recall no.
10v375000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2010 Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook Vehicles. THE Second ROW Seat Side Trim Shield Restricts THE Upward Rotation OF THE Safety Belt Buckle When THE Seat Back IS Returned TO A Seating Position After Being Folded Flat. IF THE Buckle Contacts THE Seat Frame, Additional Effort IS Required TO Return THE Seat TO A Seating Position. IF Sufficient Force IS Applied, THE Buckle Cover Could BE Pushed Down THE Strap, Exposing and Partially Depressing THE RED Release Button.
Consequence
THE Safety Belt MAY NOT Restrain THE Occupant AS Intended During A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Seat Occupant.
Remedy
Dealers Will Modify THE Second ROW Seat Side Trim Shields. IF A Safety Belt Buckle IS Damaged, Dealers Will Replace IT Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON August 18, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, and Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes
Gm's Recall NO. N100243.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System
Recall date
2010-06-04
Recall no.
10v240000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
GM IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2009 Buick, Lucerne; Cadillac Dts; Hummer H2; Model Year 2008-2009 Buick Enclave; Cadillac Cts; Model Year 2007-2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe; GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL; Saturn Outlook; and Model Year 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Equipped With A Heated Washer Fluid System (Hwfs). A Recall WAS Implemented IN 2008 TO ADD A Fuse TO THE Control Circuit Harness TO Address THE Potential Consequences OF A Printed Circuit Board (Pcb) Electrical Short. However, There Have Been NEW Reports OF Thermal Incidents ON Hwfs Modules After This Improvement WAS Installed. These Incidents Resulted From A NEW Failure Mode Attributed TO THE Device's Thermal Protection Feature. THE Significance Varies From Minor Distortion TO Considerable Melting OF THE Plastic Around THE Hwfs Fluid Chamber.
Consequence
IT IS Possible FOR THE Heated Washer Module TO Ignite and A Fire MAY Occur.
Remedy
Dealers Will Permanently Disable and Remove THE Heated Washer Fluid Module. AN Updated Page FOR THE Owner Manual Will BE Provided and Inserted IN THE Owner Manual TO Document That THE Feature HAS Been Permanently Disabled and Removed From THE Vehicle. THE Safety Recall Began ON June 11, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 and Hummer AT 1-800-732-5493 or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date
2014-03-17
Recall no.
14v118000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2013 Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia and 2009-2013 Chevrolet Traverse and 2008-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Driver and Passenger Seat Mounted Side Impact AIR BAG (Siab) Wiring Harnesses MAY Result IN THE Siab and Seat Belt Pretensioners NOT Deploying IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Consequence
Failure OF THE Side Impact AIR Bags and Seat Belt Pretensioners TO Deploy IN A Crash Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Driver and Front Seat Occupant.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected Harness Connections With Soldered Connections, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 16, 2014. Buick Owners MAY Contact THE Owner Center AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Owners AT 1-866-694-6546, Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000, and GMC Owners AT 1-866-996-9463. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14030. Note: Vehicles Repaired AS Part OF Customer Satisfaction Campaign 10085 and Special Coverage 10335 Have Already HAD THE Subject Condition Repaired and Therefore ARE NOT Included IN THE Safety Recall.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts
Recall date
2014-05-20
Recall no.
14v266000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2014 Buick Enclave Vehicles Manufactured April 14, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Manufactured June 6, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, and GMC Acadia Vehicles Manufactured April 9, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, and 2009-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles Manufactured April 14, 2008, Through March 18, 2010. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Flexible Steel Cable That Connects THE Seatbelt TO THE Front Outboard Seating Positions MAY Fatigue and Separate Over Time.
Consequence
IF THE Steel Cable Becomes Fatigued and Separates, THE Seatbelt MAY NOT Properly Restrain THE Seat Occupant Increasing THE Risk OF AN Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy
General Motors Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Repair and Replace THE LAP Pretensioner, Free OF Charge. Parts ARE NOT Currently Available. AN Interim Notice Will BE Mailed TO Owners IN July 2014. A Second Notice Will BE Mailed TO Owners Once Parts Become Available. THE Recall FOR THE 2009-2010 Model Years Began ON July 11, 2014. THE Interim Letter FOR THE 2011-2014 Model Years Were Distributed ON July 11, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-462-8782 (gmc), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). General Motors Recall Number FOR This Campaign IS 14187.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body:hatchback/Liftgate
Recall date
2015-06-30
Recall no.
15v415000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave Vehicles Manufactured January 3, 2007, TO February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Manufactured July 6, 2008, TO March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia Vehicles Manufactured September 15, 2006, TO February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles Manufactured August 17, 2006, TO March 18, 2010. THE Affected Vehicles, Equipped With THE Power Liftgate Option, Have GAS Struts That Hold THE Power Liftgate UP When Open. These Struts MAY Prematurely Wear and THE Open Liftgate MAY Suddenly Fall.
Consequence
IF THE Open Liftgate Unexpectedly Falls, IT MAY Strike A Person, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR THE Power Liftgate Actuator Motor Control Unit SO That THE Motor Will Prevent THE Rapid Closing OF THE Lift Gate, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON November 15, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782, and Saturn Customer Service AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 15240.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts: Rear/Other:buckle Assembly
Recall date
2008-11-24
Recall no.
08v615000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
GM IS Recalling 16,667 MY 2009 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook Vehicles FOR Failing TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 209, 'seat Belt Assemblies.' These Vehicles MAY Have Been Built With A Safety Belt Buckle IN THE Second or Third ROW That IS Missing A Rivet.
Consequence
IN A Vehicle Crash, IF THE Rivet IS Missing, THE Buckle MAY Separate From THE Mounting Strap, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Passenger.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Safety Belt Buckles IN THE Second and Third Rows, and Replace Them IF Necessary. THE Recall Began ON November 26, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080; Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438; GMC AT 1-866-996-9463; Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876; or Through Their Website AT <A Href=http://Www.gmownercenter.com>http://www.gmownercenter.com</a> .
Notes
GM Recall NO. 08387.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:column Shift
Recall date
2009-03-06
Recall no.
09v073000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors IS Recalling 276,729 MY 2009 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Cobalt, Hhr, Malibu, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Pontiac G5, G6 and Saturn Aura and Outlook Passenger Vehicles. These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With Federal Motor Vehicles Safety Standard 102, "transmission Shift Position Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect", and Fmvss 114, "theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention". ON Some OF These Vehicles, THE Transmission Shift Cable Adjustment Clip MAY NOT BE Fully Engaged. IF THE Clip IS NOT Fully Engaged, THE Shift Lever and THE Actual Position OF THE Transmission Gear MAY NOT Match. With This Condition, THE Drive Could Move THE Shifter TO "park" and Remove THE Ignition Key, BUT THE Transmission Gear MAY NOT BE IN "park".
Consequence
THE Driver MAY NOT BE Able TO Restart THE Vehicle and THE Vehicle Could Roll Away After THE Driver HAS Exited THE Vehicle, Resulting IN A Possible Crash Without Prior Warning.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect and Ensure That THE Shift Cable Adjustment Clip IS Fully Engaged. IN THE Event That THE Clip Does NOT Engage, THE Shift Cable Will BE Replaced Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin ON or Before March 24, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668 and Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876 or AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes
General Motors Recall NO. 09041.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
2009 Saturn Outlook Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 Saturn Outlook is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Multi Purpose Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Saturn Outlook Compare to Other Multi Purpose Vehicle?
The 2009 Saturn Outlook competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Traverse (its platform sibling), Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander. In terms of performance, the Outlook was comparable to its rivals, offering adequate power for its size. Feature-wise, it was competitive, offering similar amenities. However, the Outlook lags behind the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander in terms of reliability. The Ford Explorer, while offering a more truck-like feel, also presented reliability concerns. Pricewise, the Outlook is often more affordable on the used market than the Highlander and Pilot, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Alternatives to consider include the Buick Enclave (also a Lambda platform vehicle with a more upscale feel), the Mazda CX-9 (known for its sporty handling), and the aforementioned Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander (for superior reliability). The Chevrolet Traverse, being mechanically similar, shares both the Outlook's strengths and weaknesses. Given the Outlook's potential reliability issues, the Highlander or Pilot represent better long-term choices if budget allows. If interior space is paramount and budget is a major concern, a carefully inspected Traverse could be considered.
Ranks #1635 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 1635 | 2009 Saturn Outlook | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Saturn Outlook a Good Multi Purpose Vehicle?
The 2009 Saturn Outlook is ideal for budget-minded buyers needing a spacious vehicle with seating for up to eight passengers. It's worth buying *only* under certain conditions: a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is crucial, focusing on the timing chain and transmission. Opting for a lower mileage example with documented maintenance history is preferred. The XR trim offers a better balance of features and value compared to the base XE. Given the potential reliability concerns, it's essential to factor in potential repair costs when evaluating its overall value. Newer, more reliable alternatives like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander are recommended if the budget allows. Be prepared for higher maintenance costs compared to some competitors.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.