3 Star Reviews for 2004 Saturn VUE

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.42/5 Average
437 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A new 3.5-liter V6 replaces the previous 3.0-liter unit. Larger 17-inch wheels and tires are now standard on the V6 AWD model and optional on the front-wheel-drive version. Antilock brakes are standard on all V6 models. The interior has been upgraded to reduce noise and now incorporates metallic and leather trim. The front seats now have seatbelt pre-tensioners and dual-stage front airbags. New entertainment choices include MP3-compatible CD players, satellite radio and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system (late availability).

Pros:
  • Strong V6, large doors ease entry/exit, spacious cabin, comfortable ride, excellent crash test scores, good fuel economy.
Cons:
  • Bland interior, low-grade plastics, inconsistent build quality, noisy four-cylinder, vague steering.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 437.00
  • Stalling Problems - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    When we first bought our VUE I thought it was a really nice vehicle for a great price. However, I would never buy another one. Shortly after we bought it, it started having acceleration problem. There were times I was pulling from a residential street onto the highway and it sputtered and stopped--as another person said--very dangerous!!! I took it to the Saturn shop 5 times for this same problem and they said each time they could not find anything wrong! When I said "there has to be" the mgr was rude and said "we cant have someone drive your car around all day to find out"! Also, hazard light fell into dash. VUE is good in many ways, but not the important ones!

  • SO FAR SO GOOD...MPG? - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    We bought it Jan 2004. First 11 months its been fine.I dont like customer service and their service recomendations.You dont need your tires balanced every 6000 miles. The only problems Ive had are leg room and MPG.And customer service.Im 64" and if the drivers seat isnt all the way back, my shin hits the underside of the dash. Fortunately, my wife drives it. Unfortunately, I drive a VW JETTA- the worst car on earth. And whats up with the MPG? Im getting 19 or so. ITS A 4 CYL!!! I could understand if it was a fast 4 cyl, but the thing wont get out of its own way (Especially with the air on).They cant tell EVERYONE that its because of our driving habits....Can they?

  • 2004 Saturn Vue Next Problem Come on Dwn - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    I bought my Saturn brand new with 16 miles on the odometer. After that is was all downhill, first the they had a recall on the back suspenstion, then the CD player didnt work right (even after servicing and replacing it with a new one, ignition module went bad, then oxygen sensor, then control coil on ignition module, then ignition module AGAIN, then motor on rear wiper, hazard light button fell into the dash board, the front struts, then right axle problem. Now guess what just happened this week the engine light came on. Then I starte losing acceleration a little. Ive done regular oil changes, air filter changs, fuel injector cleanings & maintenance. Its a piece of crap. Dont buy a VUE

  • Not good - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    A fast little SUV for the expressway. I bought this VUE for the Honda engine that does exactly what its supposed to do for power and economy. Thats where the fun ends with the Saturn. The VUE is definitely inferior to any import Ive owned for build quality . I am shocked at what a noisy rattle trap this VUE is. My VUE is becoming a regular at the service department for weird problems. Im surprised that GM is making a cheap rattle trap like this. I am sorry i didnt buy a "real" Honda. This car is a crackerbox. The road noise inside the car is disgusting at highway speeds.

  • VUE review - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    Nice thought to lure with the Honda engine and tranny. Too bad the rest of the vehicle is so poorly constructed. Issues with front end suspension components, rear end drive components and electronic interface (BCM and ECM). It is too small for 4 people and luggage. Small for a +6ft driver. The 250HP V-6 is really peppy but at 40,000 miles and +20 trips to the dealer under waranty this vehicle is history!

  • disappointed - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    A real disappointment, especially with the mileage. It promised 23/28, and it is closer to 16/19. The dealer siad there was nothing wrong with the car and nothing they could do about it. Have also had the door fixed, windshield cleaner valves fixed with only 3000 miles.

  • Wont hold up - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    This vehicle will be great as long as you have warranty coverage left, but that isnt very long. There is no extended powertrain coverage and the major system problems start at about 45,000 miles. In less than 50,000 miles, the entire hydraulic system for the clutch went out ($1,500) and parts are increadibly tough to get. It took almost a week to get repaired even though the work only took a day after the dealership got the parts in.

  • piece of JUNK! - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    This car has less than 43,000 miles. It seems every time I turn around something has to be fixed. A/C went out twice, "small leak" in emission control 4 times, power windows stopped working, valve job, sway bars and struts had to be replaced, master cylinder and slave cylinder on clutch had to be replaced. Ive spent more on repairs than the car is worth. Pass the word - Saturn is very unreliable. If you have deep pockets and enjoy spending a lot of time with the service department (and being without a car for days at a time for repairs)this might be the car for you. Ill never buy another American car! Not surprised theyre going out of business.

  • Becomes Junk after 30,000 Miles - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    For the first 6 months, the VUE is great. It still turns heads, but it has become a 7 month-long nightmare of constant front end, suspension, and steering problems. Anything but freshly paved roads is not recommended. The interior is exceptionally noisy. The steering and suspension always rattles, and Saturn calls this "Normal." Many VUE owners agree. VUEs have rather pathetic build quality. I do not recommend the Saturn VUE to ANYONE. For a complete breakdown of all the VUEs constant problems, you can visit Saturnalia and choose the VUE Forum. This will help you make your decision to NOT purchase a Saturn VUE.

  • Very Disappointed - 2004 Saturn VUE
    By -

    This car has potential, but Saturns execution is very disappointing. I got the service record from the previous owner when I bought the car - 21 complaints, some major. Then in the past 6 months I have had to replace or repair the radio, trim pieces, wheel bearings, the list goes on and on. It has such potential, but Saturn just does not deliver.

Saturn VUE Reviews By Year:
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