The 2008 Saturn Aura was a mid-size sedan aimed at offering a blend of style and value. Produced by General Motors under the Saturn brand, it was available from 2007 to 2009. Key trims included XE, XR, and Green Line (hybrid). New, it ranged from roughly $20,000 to $25,000. Its European-inspired design, relatively upscale interior for its price point, and available V6 engine made it a popular choice for buyers seeking an alternative to more mainstream sedans.
The Good
The 2008 Saturn Aura offered a comfortable ride and a stylish, European-influenced design, appealing to emotional buyers. Practical advantages included a spacious interior, available fuel-efficient hybrid model, and a competitive price. Its V6 engine provided decent performance, while the base engine offered reasonable fuel economy for budget-conscious buyers. While not class-leading, it represented good value for money.
The Bad
The 2008 Saturn Aura suffered from some reliability issues, particularly with the automatic transmission and electrical components. Owners should watch out for transmission slipping or harsh shifting, as well as issues with the power windows, door locks, and the anti-theft system. Interior materials were also prone to wear and tear, and some owners reported issues with the OnStar system.
2008 Saturn Aura: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Ecotec Inline-4 (XE, XR): 169 hp
- 3.5L V6 (XE, XR): 219 hp
- 3.6L V6 (XR): 252 hp
- 2.4L Ecotec Inline-4 Hybrid (Green Line): 164 hp (combined)
- Horsepower: Ranging from 164 hp (Hybrid) to 252 hp (3.6L V6).
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.4L I4: 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- 3.5L V6: 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 3.6L V6: 17 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 2.4L Hybrid: 26 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.4L I4: 9.0-9.5 seconds
- 3.5L V6: 7.5-8.0 seconds
- 3.6L V6: 6.8-7.2 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- XE: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a basic audio system.
- XR: Added features such as alloy wheels, upgraded audio system, leather seats (optional), and available sunroof. Higher trims also offered the more powerful 3.6L V6 engine.
- Green Line: Hybrid-specific features including regenerative braking, hybrid powertrain display, and unique badging. Similar features as XE but with hybrid components.
2008 Saturn Aura Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | Saturn |
| Model | Aura |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | LORDSTOWN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LY7 |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
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
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Check
Accident
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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 2008 Saturn Aura Have?
The 2008 Saturn Aura had its share of frequently reported problems. One of the most common issues involved the automatic transmission, particularly the 4-speed used with the 2.4L engine and the 3.5L V6. Owners reported slipping, harsh shifting, and complete transmission failure. Electrical issues were also prevalent, with complaints about power windows, door locks, and the anti-theft system malfunctioning. Some owners experienced problems with the OnStar system and the climate control. Steering issues, including power steering failure, were also reported. Recalls for the 2008 Aura included issues with the shift cable detaching, potentially causing the vehicle to roll away, and problems with the brake lights. Long-term reliability concerns centered around the durability of the transmission and the longevity of the electrical components. Owners have also reported issues with premature wear of interior materials. While the 2007 model year had some additional first-year issues, the 2008 and 2009 models shared many of the same problems, particularly with the transmission and electrical systems. Careful inspection and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are crucial when considering a used 2008 Saturn Aura.
How long will the 2008 Saturn Aura last?
With proper maintenance, a 2008 Saturn Aura could potentially reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. However, the lifespan largely depends on maintenance habits and how well the car was cared for. Neglecting regular maintenance, especially transmission fluid changes, will significantly shorten its lifespan. The primary long-term durability concerns revolve around the automatic transmission and electrical systems, as these components are prone to failure over time. Rust can also be an issue in regions with harsh winters. Even with diligent maintenance, the Aura's inherent weaknesses mean it might require more frequent repairs compared to some of its rivals.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2008 Saturn Aura featured a relatively basic tech and entertainment setup for its time. Standard features typically included an AM/FM radio with a CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims offered upgraded audio systems, sometimes with satellite radio. OnStar was available as an option, providing features like automatic crash notification and roadside assistance. Driver-assistance features were limited, with standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control. Some models may have included optional features like remote start.
Safety features included standard front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) crash test ratings for the 2008 Saturn Aura were generally good. It received five stars for driver and passenger front crash protection and five stars for side crash protection. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also gave the Aura good ratings in its frontal offset and side impact tests. However, it's crucial to verify the specific ratings for the model year and configuration, as ratings can change. Overall, the Aura provided reasonable safety for its class and era, but its tech and driver-assistance features were not as advanced as those found in newer vehicles.
Safety features included standard front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) crash test ratings for the 2008 Saturn Aura were generally good. It received five stars for driver and passenger front crash protection and five stars for side crash protection. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also gave the Aura good ratings in its frontal offset and side impact tests. However, it's crucial to verify the specific ratings for the model year and configuration, as ratings can change. Overall, the Aura provided reasonable safety for its class and era, but its tech and driver-assistance features were not as advanced as those found in newer vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Onyx
Silver Pearl
Liquid Silver Metallic
Midnight Blue Metallic
Red Jewel Tintcoat
Gold Mist Metallic
Ocean Mist Metallic
Interior Colors
Tan
Ebony
Neutral
2008 Saturn Aura Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2008 Saturn Aura had a price range of approximately $20,000 to $25,000, depending on the trim level and options. As a used car, its current market price typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Aura experienced significant depreciation due to its age, brand reputation (Saturn was discontinued), and reported reliability issues. Factors affecting resale value include the car's condition (both mechanical and cosmetic), mileage, service history, and whether it has any major known problems. Models with the 3.6L V6 engine may command slightly higher prices due to their better performance.
2008 Saturn Aura Cost of Ownership
The 2008 Saturn Aura is moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are typically average for a mid-size sedan. Fuel costs vary depending on the engine, with the hybrid being the most economical. However, maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average due to potential transmission and electrical issues. Parts availability might also be a factor, given Saturn's discontinuation. Budgeting for potential repairs is crucial. While the initial purchase price may be low, the potential for unexpected expenses makes it less economical than some competitors.
2008 Saturn Aura Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2008 Saturn Aura Safety Rating
NHTSA
2008 Saturn Aura Recalls & Defects
Power Train:automatic Transmission:gear Position Indication (Prndl)
Recall date
2012-09-18
Recall no.
12v460000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2010 Saturn Aura and Model Year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6 Vehicles, Equipped With A 4-speed Automatic Transmission. ON These Vehicles, THE Tabs ON THE Transmission Shift Cable END MAY Fracture and Separate.
Consequence
IF THE Tabs Were TO Fracture and Separate, THE Shift Lever and THE Actual Position OF THE Transmission Gear MAY NOT Match. THE Driver Would BE Able TO Move THE Shifter TO 'park' and Remove THE Ignition Key, BUT THE Transmission Gear MAY NOT BE IN 'park.' THE Vehicle MAY NOT BE Able TO BE Restarted and THE Vehicle Could Roll Away After THE Driver HAS Exited THE Vehicle, Resulting IN A Possible Crash Without Prior Warning.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Retainer Over THE Cable END or Replace THE Shift Cable AS Necessary. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. Notification TO Owners Began ON ON November 9, 2012. Owners Were Instructed TO NOT Bring Their Vehicles FOR Repair Until January 2013. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-521-7300.
Notes
General Motors Safety Recall Number 12106. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Steering:electric Power Assist System
Recall date
2014-03-31
Recall no.
14v153000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (Non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009 Pontiac G6. IN THE Affected Vehicles, There MAY BE A Sudden Loss OF Electric Power Steering (eps) Assist That Could Occur AT ANY Time While Driving.
Consequence
IF Power Steering Assist IS Lost, Greater Driver Effort Would BE Required TO Steer THE Vehicle AT Low Speeds, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Perform ONE OF Four Bulletins. Parts ARE NOT Currently Available. GM Expects TO Send AN Interim Notification Around MAY 28, 2014. When Parts ARE Available, Owners Will BE Mailed A Second Letter TO Come IN TO Have THE Applicable Bulletin Applied. Bulletin 14115 Covers Model Year 2004-2007 Saturn Ion, 2009-2010 Chevrolet HHR and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalts. Dealers Will Replace THE EPS Motor. Bulletin 14116 Covers Model Year 2004-2006 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx, 2005-2006 Pontiac G6 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura Built From March 1, 2008, Through June 27, 2008. Dealers Will Replace THE Torque Sensor Assembly. Bulletin 14117 Covers Model Year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura Built From February 1, 2008, Through February 28, 2008. Dealers Will Replace THE Torque Sensor Assembly and EPS Motor Controller Unit. Bulletin 14118 Covers Model Year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura Built From October 1, 2007, Through January 31, 2008. Dealers Will Replace THE EPS Motor Controller Unit. THE Recall Began ON July 17, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000, and Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N140115. Note: GM Bulletin Number 14119 Will BE Implemented FOR Model Year 2006-2008 and Early Production OF 2009 Chevrolet HHR (Non-turbo) and Model Year 2003 Saturn ION TO Provide EPS Motor Replacement FOR THE Life OF THE Vehicle.
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.
Electrical System:wiring
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
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.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
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.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
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.
Vehicle Speed Control:cruise Control
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
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.
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
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.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
2014-04-30
Recall no.
14v224000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON April 29, 2014, That They ARE Recalling 56,214 Model Year 2007 and 2008 Saturn Aura Vehicles. ON MAY 22, 2014, GM Increased THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 1,074,899 Model Year 2004-2008 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured From MAY 16, 2003, Through October 5, 2007, Model Year 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured From June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, and Model Year 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured From MAY 26, 2004, Through September 28, 2007, and Equipped With 4-speed Transmissions. THE Total Number Vehicles Being Recalled IS NOW 1,131,113.
Consequence
IF THE Transmission Shift Cable Fractures While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven, THE Transmission Gear Selection MAY NOT Match THE Indicated Gear and THE Vehicle MAY Move IN AN Unintended or Unexpected Direction, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. Furthermore, When THE Driver Goes TO Stop and Park THE Vehicle, Despite Selecting THE ?park? Position, THE Transmission MAY NOT BE IN ?park.? IF THE Vehicle IS NOT IN THE "park" Position There IS A Risk THE Vehicle Will Roll Away AS THE Driver and Other Occupants Exit THE Vehicle or Anytime Thereafter. A Vehicle Rollaway Increases THE Risk OF Injury TO Exiting Occupants and Bystanders.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and GM Dealers Will Replace THE Shift Cable Assembly and Mounting Bracket, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer HAS NOT YET Provided A Notification Schedule. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14152.
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.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:lever and Linkage:floor Shift
Recall date
2014-04-30
Recall no.
14v224000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON April 29, 2014, That They ARE Recalling 56,214 Model Year 2007 and 2008 Saturn Aura Vehicles. ON MAY 22, 2014, GM Increased THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 1,074,899 Model Year 2004-2008 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured From MAY 16, 2003, Through October 5, 2007, Model Year 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured From June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, and Model Year 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured From MAY 26, 2004, Through September 28, 2007, and Equipped With 4-speed Transmissions. THE Total Number Vehicles Being Recalled IS NOW 1,131,113.
Consequence
IF THE Transmission Shift Cable Fractures While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven, THE Transmission Gear Selection MAY NOT Match THE Indicated Gear and THE Vehicle MAY Move IN AN Unintended or Unexpected Direction, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. Furthermore, When THE Driver Goes TO Stop and Park THE Vehicle, Despite Selecting THE ?park? Position, THE Transmission MAY NOT BE IN ?park.? IF THE Vehicle IS NOT IN THE "park" Position There IS A Risk THE Vehicle Will Roll Away AS THE Driver and Other Occupants Exit THE Vehicle or Anytime Thereafter. A Vehicle Rollaway Increases THE Risk OF Injury TO Exiting Occupants and Bystanders.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and GM Dealers Will Replace THE Shift Cable Assembly and Mounting Bracket, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer HAS NOT YET Provided A Notification Schedule. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14152.
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.
Steering
Recall date
2014-07-21
Recall no.
14e044000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) IS Recalling Certain Replacement Intermediate Steering Shafts Sold Under THE Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions Brand Names, Part Numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, FOR Installation ON 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura Vehicles. THE Affected Steering Shafts MAY Have A Yoke That Inadequately Supports THE U-joint Bearing Resulting IN A Premature Failure.
Consequence
A Joint Bearing That Fails Prematurely MAY Cause Separation OF THE U-Joint Resulting IN A Complete Loss OF Steering Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dorman Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Refund THE Purchase Price or Replace THE Steering Shafts, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began IN September 2014. Owners MAY Contact Dorman Customer Service AT 1-800-523-2492.
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.
2008 Saturn Aura Insurance
Insurance for a 2008 Saturn Aura is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Saturn Aura Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2008 Saturn Aura competed against mid-size sedans like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet Malibu. In terms of performance, the Aura's available 3.6L V6 was competitive, but the base engines were less impressive than those offered by rivals. Feature-wise, it offered a decent package but lacked some of the advanced tech found in newer competitors. Reliability was a major weakness compared to the Camry and Accord, which had significantly better track records. While the Aura's price was often lower than these rivals, the potential for costly repairs could offset the initial savings.
Alternatives to consider include the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord for their superior reliability and resale value. The Ford Fusion offered a more engaging driving experience and often had better reliability than the Aura. The Chevrolet Malibu, being a closely related GM product, offered a similar experience but may have had better parts availability. Ultimately, while the Aura offered a stylish design and competitive price, its reliability concerns make it a less compelling choice compared to its rivals.
Alternatives to consider include the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord for their superior reliability and resale value. The Ford Fusion offered a more engaging driving experience and often had better reliability than the Aura. The Chevrolet Malibu, being a closely related GM product, offered a similar experience but may have had better parts availability. Ultimately, while the Aura offered a stylish design and competitive price, its reliability concerns make it a less compelling choice compared to its rivals.
Ranks #37 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 37 | 2008 Saturn Aura | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Saturn Aura a Good Sedan?
The 2008 Saturn Aura is best suited for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize style and are willing to accept potential reliability risks. It might be worth buying *if* you find one in excellent condition with a comprehensive service history and have it thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic. The 3.6L V6 model offers better performance, but all models should be carefully evaluated for transmission and electrical issues. Given its age and potential maintenance needs, it's generally not recommended as a primary or long-term vehicle. It is most suitable as a short-term, inexpensive transportation option for someone who understands the risks and is prepared for potential repairs. Be prepared to walk away if any red flags are present during the inspection.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.