Vue (1st)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
LAT - MFI, DOHC, BAS (for Hybrid)
2.4L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
L61/LBZ
2.2L 4-cyl / 170 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
L33 HO
5.3L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
L66
3.5L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
L33
5.3L 8-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
9 additional engine variants with fewer than 10 complaints not shown.
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Saturn Vue regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (3)
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2002-2004 Saturn Vue vehicles manufactured September 11, 2001, to April 6, 2004. In the affected vehicles, it may be possible for the key to be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 3.5L V6 (L66) ENGINES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS." THE FRONT AND REAR WHEEL RIM SIZE SPECIFICATIONS ON THE TIRE/CERTIFICATION LABEL ARE NOT CORRECT. THE PRINTED WHEEL RIM DESIGNATION SPECIFIED A 16-INCH WHEEL WHEN A 17-INCH WHEEL DESIGNATION WAS REQUIRED.
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES." SOME VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH REAR OUTER SEAT BELT SHOULDER GUIDE ANCHOR BOLTS THAT WERE INCORRECTLY INSTALLED.
All Generations
Alternatives in Compact SUV
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2002-2007 Saturn Vue problems?
The 2002-2007 Saturn Vue has accumulated 1,866 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Electrical System, Transmission, Safety Systems. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Saturn Vue engine is most reliable?
The 2002-2007 Saturn Vue was offered with 14 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.2L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2002-2007 Saturn Vue a good used car?
The 2002-2007 Saturn Vue can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 1,866 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2002-2007 Saturn Vue have?
The 2002-2007 Saturn Vue has 1,866 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2002-2007 Saturn Vue?
There are 3 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2002-2007 Saturn Vue vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Saturn Vue?
Before buying a used Saturn Vue, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Electrical System, Transmission, Safety Systems, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Vue?
The 2007 Saturn Vue received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: 3 stars (20.9% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: No. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 1,866 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.