The Saturn Aura existed for one generation for the 2007 to 2010 model years. This post reviews the top 5 Saturn Aura problems owners have run into and how to fix them.
Video: Top 5 Saturn Aura Problems
1. Automatic Transmission Problems
Symptoms of Automatic Transmission Problems
- Check engine light
- Transmission not shifting properly
- Harsh shift in 3rd or 5th gear
- May not be able to move car in reverse
Causes of Automatic Transmission Problems on the 1st Gen Saturn Aura
The 1st gen Saturn Aura’s with the 6-speed automatic transmission can experience transmission problems. The 3-5-R waveplate, which is supposed to work like a spring, can break over time and damage the transmission internally.
How to Fix Automatic Transmission Problems
Have the transmission removed and replace the damaged components.
2. EVAP Vent Valve Failure
Symptoms of EVAP Vent Valve Failure
- Check engine light for an EVAP code
Causes of EVAP Vent Valve Failure
The EVAP vent valve is located at the back of the gas tank.
How to Fix EVAP Vent Valve Failure
First, check the gas cap for looseness, broken seals, or damage. Replace it if needed.
To access and replace the EVAP valve, the gas tank or the rear suspension will need to be removed.
3. Blown Cooling Fan Fuse
Symptoms of Blown Cooling Fan Fuses
- Engine overheats
- A/C not working
Causes of Blown Cooling Fan Fuses
The 30 amp fuses can blow and cause the cooling fans to not work properly.
How to Fix Blown Cooling Fan Fuses
Replace the 30 amp fuse with another. Replacing the fuse with a 40 amp fuse requires new wiring and fan motors.
4. Wheel Bearing Failure
Symptoms of Bad Wheel Bearings
- Howling or humming noise at the wheels
How to Fix Bad Wheel Bearings
Raise and secure the vehicle with a jack and jack stands. Press the tire in and out from the 12 and 6 o’clock position and feel for play or excessive looseness. Turn the wheel and listen for the humming noise. If the wheel bearing is bad, replace the entire wheel hub assembly.
5. Combination or Turn Signal Switch Failure
Symptoms of Turn Signal Switch Failure
- Turn signal switch may not return to its neutral position after turning the steering wheel
- Headlight functions may not work properly
How to Fix Turn Signal Switch Failure
Replace the combination switch.
Learn How to Fix Your Own 1st Gen Saturn Aura
Learn how to fix your own Aura and related models like the Pontiac G6. 1A Auto’s video library has thousands of how-to videos to help experienced and inexperienced DIYers diagnose and complete many repairs.
1st Generation Saturn Aura Model Years
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Shop Saturn Aura Parts
I’m having issues with my Saturn as we speak. First issue wasy front passenger side break caliper over time it got to where it was heating up to hot more frequently. Causing my tire not to want to gain speed as normal. So I changed the caliper an it rides great for about a month. I didn’t know changing this can cause the break hose to collapse. So it starts back doing the same thing, I immediately changed the hose. After changing the house the breaks are bled on both sides fluid filled back up tires put on an it rode good about 2 days. Nothing major has happened yet but I can feel the change in speed when taking off from a stop sign. An now my roaders want to get warmer than usual. Could someone please tell me what the real issue could be so I can stop guessing an fix the actual issue please. I don’t want to tare up something that could have been fixed from the start.