2003 Saturn VUE review from North America

At 100,000 miles, the transmission went on me after the check engine light gave me about 5 minutes warning. As it turns out it wasn't the transmission itself. Apparently there is a belt on the transmission (which is a different design from most traditional transmissions) and that belt deteriorated a bit, broke, and sent debris throughout the transmission. I found by searching the net that this has happened as early as 60,000 miles and if you can change the belt in time it will cost you a few hundred dollars, as opposed to a new transmission which is around $4,600. Saturn is the only company who can work on your transmission. I tried numerous routes and ended up back at Saturn. Their customer service is excellent which helps soften the blow. But I am not buying Saturn again because the whole reason I bought this VUE new in 2003 because the 2001 Saturn SL2 that I had also bought new had ITS transmission die on me and I was browsing while waiting for the work to be done.

I have had to do work on my brakes a couple of times but they never actually let me down in any way.

Each of my door locks in turn has stopped working so you have to push them manually which is really hard on the fingers.

You can't beat this car's performance in the snow, in icy conditions, and even off-roading as long as you're smart about it. I feel so safe in this vehicle.

Particularly good rate of acceleration; I can always get out of my way which is very gratifying.

Performance is great. Great on hills and winding roads, as well as on the highway. This car was built with performance and safety in mind.

Does well on fuel; the same as a station wagon or a medium or large sedan.

Stock stereo sounds good.

Love the grocery storage in the cargo area.

Besides the maintenance problems I consider this a very reliable vehicle.

If it weren't for the maintenance problems I would buy this model again and again.