Many owners have reported sensor and wiring-related problems, meaning a full check of all electronic accessories should be considered mandatory, too. Ditto the transmission. If the Vue you’re test driving hesitates, slips or ‘clunks’ during gear shifts, move to another unit. Note that the Vue also seemed prone to bearing-related issues with wheel-bearings and carriers for the driveshafts in the AWD system.
To avoid potential headaches and reliability issues, a front-drive, four-cylinder, five-speed unit is likely your best bet. If you’re not dead-set on a first-gen Vue and can spend a little more money, more reliable models are available.
The second-generation Vue launched as a 2008 model that lasted just two years before the Saturn brand packed it in. Three new powerplants were available, as was the same front or all-wheel drive layout as the former vehicle. The second-gen Vue was largely appreciated for offering up a more premium driving experience that was quieter, more luxurious and more upscale than the original machine.
Reliability information is somewhat scarce given the vehicle’s short lifespan, though many of the problems found on the original model seem to have been addressed. Additionally, the second-gen Vue may be available with a good portion of GM’s 160,000 kilometre warranty remaining.
The gist?
A basic first-generation, or lower-mileage second-generation unit are the most solid used Vue bets. Otherwise, check out the used Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute for a more solid ‘affordable’ used ute.
To avoid potential headaches and reliability issues, a front-drive, four-cylinder, five-speed unit is likely your best bet. If you’re not dead-set on a first-gen Vue and can spend a little more money, more reliable models are available.
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| Saturn Vue 2006 (Photo: Amyot Bachand/Auto123.com) |
The second-generation Vue launched as a 2008 model that lasted just two years before the Saturn brand packed it in. Three new powerplants were available, as was the same front or all-wheel drive layout as the former vehicle. The second-gen Vue was largely appreciated for offering up a more premium driving experience that was quieter, more luxurious and more upscale than the original machine.
Reliability information is somewhat scarce given the vehicle’s short lifespan, though many of the problems found on the original model seem to have been addressed. Additionally, the second-gen Vue may be available with a good portion of GM’s 160,000 kilometre warranty remaining.
The gist?
A basic first-generation, or lower-mileage second-generation unit are the most solid used Vue bets. Otherwise, check out the used Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute for a more solid ‘affordable’ used ute.
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