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Saturn · Known Issues

2007 Saturn Aura Problems: 7 Known Issues

2007 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2007 Saturn Aura has 7 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Transmission Shift Cable Fracture (Rollaway Risk) ($150-$500 repair), Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch ($1,800-$4,500 repair) and 3.6L V6 (LY7) Stretched Timing Chains ($1,500-$3,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Aura Engine4
  • Aura Transmission1
  • Aura Brakes1
  • Aura Emissions1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine4
  • Transmission1
  • Brakes1
  • Emissions1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ

All 7 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS2010200920082007

On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura 3.6L LY7 V6, the GM 3.6L LY7/LLT "High Feature" V6 in 2007-2009 Saturn Aura XR (and shared Chevy Malibu / Pontiac G6 / Cadillac CTS) develops timing chain stretch typically by 80,000-150,000 miles. Same root cause family as the LLT in Enclave/LaCrosse/Acadia — extended oil intervals starve the chain.

This issue also affects: Buick Cascada, Buick Enclave, Buick Encore

Common Symptoms

  • cold start rattle
  • misfire
  • check engine light
  • reduced power

How to Fix

Full timing chain kit ($1,800-$3,000 at independent) including primary and secondary chains, all tensioners and guides. Switch to 5,000-7,500 mile dexos1 oil intervals. Catastrophic chain skip means cylinder head damage ($4,000+).

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Cloyes 9-0753S three-chain timing set

    Variable-valve-timing components are not included; verify VIN, engine code, exact procedure, seals, bolts and ancillary parts before purchase. Professional engine-timing work.

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$1,800 - $4,500

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Manually Verified
High Confidence

On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, the early GM 3.6L high-feature V6 (used in Aura XR) is prone to premature timing chain stretch, sometimes appearing as early as 50,000-100,000 miles. As the chains wear, camshaft-to-crankshaft timing drifts out of spec, setting correlation codes and eventually causing rough running, reduced power, and potential engine damage if ignored. A cold-start rattle is a common early warning sign.

This issue also affects: Buick Cascada, Buick Enclave, Buick Encore

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light with timing correlation codes
  • Rattle on cold start
  • Rough idle / misfire
  • Reduced power
  • Engine light flashing under load

How to Fix

Replace all three timing chains, tensioners, and guides (a major job). GM issued Special Coverage Adjustment #11340 (extending warranty to 10 years/120,000 miles on affected engines and requiring ECM reprogramming in some cases). Use the correct oil and change intervals to slow wear.

Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $3,000

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, auras with the 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder (XE) can develop high oil consumption as they age, often attributed to worn piston oil-control rings allowing oil past the rings into the combustion chamber. Owners report burning roughly a quart every 1,000-2,000 miles, which can lead to low-oil conditions and engine wear if not monitored. This is a known weakness across the GM 2.4L Ecotec family.

Common Symptoms

  • Low oil level between changes
  • Burning roughly 1 quart per 1,000-2,000 miles
  • Low oil pressure / oil light
  • Blue smoke on startup
  • Fouled spark plugs

How to Fix

Monitor oil level frequently between changes and top off as needed; severe cases require piston/ring replacement or a short-block. Keeping to high-quality oil and regular change intervals helps. Some owners catch it early via the oil-life monitor and frequent checks.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $3,000

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, the 3.6L V6 Auras are reported to throw misfire codes, frequently as a downstream symptom of the stretched timing chains but also from worn ignition coils/spark plugs or carbon buildup on the direct-injection intake valves. Owners experience rough idle, hesitation, and a check engine light. P0300 with cylinder-specific misfire codes is common.

This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Cascada

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light (often flashing)
  • Rough idle / shaking
  • Hesitation or stumble on acceleration
  • Reduced fuel economy

How to Fix

Diagnose root cause: inspect/measure timing chain deviation first (since chains are a known weak point), then replace spark plugs and any failed ignition coils. Walnut-blast carbon from intake valves if buildup is present. Address timing chains if correlation codes accompany the misfire.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine GM spark plug 19300872 (replaces 12597464)

    Confirm VIN/engine and current supersession before ordering.

    GMPartsGiant
  • Genuine GM ignition coil 12632479

    Confirm VIN/connector and current supersession.

    AutoPartsPrime

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $800

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2007-2010 Saturn Aura, the plastic shift cable end fitting or its retaining tabs can wear out and fracture on automatic-transmission Auras. When this happens, the gear indicator may show 'Park' (or the wrong gear) while the transmission is actually still in Drive, Reverse, or Neutral, and the driver may be unable to shift to Park or remove the key. This created a serious vehicle rollaway hazard and was linked to multiple crashes and injuries. It is the single most-documented and safety-critical defect on the Aura, addressed by two NHTSA recalls.

Common Symptoms

  • Shifter shows Park but car can still roll
  • Cannot shift lever into Park
  • Cannot remove ignition key
  • Gear indicator shows wrong gear
  • Vehicle rolls when parked on an incline

How to Fix

Covered by recall (NHTSA 12V460000 installed a retainer over the cable end; 14V224000 replaced the shift cable assembly and mounting bracket at no charge). Out of warranty, the fix is to replace the shift cable/shifter cable bushing or full cable assembly; some cases are resolved by replacing the small worn plastic bushing where the cable connects to the transmission lever.

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Typical repair cost:$150 - $500

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2007-2008 Saturn Aura, first-generation Auras (especially 2007) are widely reported to warp their front brake rotors prematurely, producing steering-wheel and front-end shimmy under braking. Owners report rotors warping within a few thousand miles and needing repeated resurfacing or replacement, in some cases every 10,000 miles. The issue was acknowledged by service staff as a design weakness on 2007 and, to a lesser degree, 2008 cars.

Common Symptoms

  • Steering wheel shakes when braking
  • Front-end vibration/pulsation under braking
  • Pedal pulsation
  • Repeated need to resurface or replace rotors

How to Fix

Replace the rotors and pads; many owners switched to higher-quality aftermarket rotors and pads to reduce recurrence. Proper lug-nut torque (even tightening) and avoiding overheating also helps. The underlying fix is upgraded rotors, as resurfacing alone tends to recur.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Power Stop KOE1610 front brake pad and rotor kit

    2007-2008 Saturn Aura front axle; confirm VIN, brake RPO, 295.8 mm rotor and existing hardware before ordering.

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $600

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, auras commonly throw EVAP emissions faults, most often from a stuck-open or failing canister purge solenoid/valve (and sometimes a clogged charcoal canister or faulty fuel-tank pressure sensor). The result is a persistent check engine light and potential emissions-test failure. The gas cap is worth checking first but is usually not the cause of the P0496 flow-during-non-purge code.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Corvette, Chevrolet HHR, Buick Encore GX

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Failed emissions/smog test
  • Occasional rough idle
  • Fuel odor in some cases

How to Fix

Confirm the gas cap is tight, inspect EVAP vacuum lines for cracks, then replace the canister purge solenoid/valve if it is stuck open. Replace the charcoal canister or fuel-tank pressure sensor if those are at fault.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • AM Autoparts AM-3296354606 vapor-canister purge solenoid

    Confirm VIN/engine and connector.

    AM Autoparts
  • AM Autoparts AM-2568817646 vapor-canister purge solenoid

    Confirm VIN/engine and connector.

    AM Autoparts
  • ACDelco 214-1946 vapor-canister purge valve

    Confirm VIN/engine and current GM supersession.

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $350

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
NHTSA Recalls6 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured May 16, 2003, through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured June 25, 2003, through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured May 26, 2004, through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura vehicles manufactured April 24, 2006, through May 26, 2009. In the affected vehicles, increased resistance in the Body Control Module (BCM) connection may result in voltage fluctuations in the Brake Apply Sensor (BAS) circuit. These fluctuations can cause one or more of these conditions: the brake lights to illuminate without the brake pedal being pushed; the brake lights to not illuminate when the pedal is pushed; difficulty disengaging the cruise control; moving the gear shifter out of the 'PARK' position without pushing the brake; and disablement of crash avoidance features such as traction control, electronic stability control, and panic braking assist features.

Campaign #14V25200014/05/2014

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009 Pontiac G6. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering (EPS) assist that could occur at any time while driving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Saturn Aura problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2007 Saturn Aura has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Transmission Shift Cable Fracture (Rollaway Risk), Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch, 3.6L V6 (LY7) Stretched Timing Chains. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Saturn Aura reliable?

The 2007 Saturn Aura has 7 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Transmission Shift Cable Fracture (Rollaway Risk) and Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch and 3.6L V6 (LY7) Stretched Timing Chains. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Saturn Aura problems?

Repair costs for known Saturn Aura issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Transmission Shift Cable Fracture (Rollaway Risk), typically costs $150-$500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Transmission Shift Cable Fracture (Rollaway Risk)?

The plastic shift cable end fitting or its retaining tabs can wear out and fracture on automatic-transmission Auras. When this happens, the gear indicator may show 'Park' (or the wrong gear) while the transmission is actually still in Drive, Reverse, or Neutral, and the driver ma… Repairs typically run $150-$500. Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura Aura 3.6L LY7 V6 Timing Chain Stretch?

The GM 3.6L LY7/LLT "High Feature" V6 in 2007-2009 Saturn Aura XR (and shared Chevy Malibu / Pontiac G6 / Cadillac CTS) develops timing chain stretch typically by 80,000-150,000 miles. Same root cause family as the LLT in Enclave/LaCrosse/Acadia — extended oil intervals starve th… Repairs typically run $1,800-$4,500. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #14V153000
31/03/2014

STEERING

Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain replacement intermediate steering shafts sold under the Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions brand names, part numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, for installation on 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura vehicles. The affected steering shafts may have a yoke that inadequately supports the u-joint bearing resulting in a premature failure.

Campaign #14E04400021/07/2014

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)

General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Saturn Aura and model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6 vehicles, equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission. On these vehicles, the tabs on the transmission shift cable end may fracture and separate.

Campaign #12V46000018/09/2012

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT

GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING 276,729 MY 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE, CHEVROLET COBALT, HHR, MALIBU, TRAVERSE, GMC ACADIA, PONTIAC G5, G6 AND SATURN AURA AND OUTLOOK PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLES SAFETY STANDARD 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT POSITION SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT", AND FMVSS 114, "THEFT PROTECTION AND ROLLAWAY PREVENTION". ON SOME OF THESE VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT CLIP MAY NOT BE FULLY ENGAGED. IF THE CLIP IS NOT FULLY ENGAGED, THE SHIFT LEVER AND THE ACTUAL POSITION OF THE TRANSMISSION GEAR MAY NOT MATCH. WITH THIS CONDITION, THE DRIVE COULD MOVE THE SHIFTER TO "PARK" AND REMOVE THE IGNITION KEY, BUT THE TRANSMISSION GEAR MAY NOT BE IN "PARK".

Campaign #09V07300006/03/2009

+ 1 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura 3.6L V6 (LY7) Stretched Timing Chains?

The early GM 3.6L high-feature V6 (used in Aura XR) is prone to premature timing chain stretch, sometimes appearing as early as 50,000-100,000 miles. As the chains wear, camshaft-to-crankshaft timing drifts out of spec, setting correlation codes and eventually causing rough runni… Repairs typically run $1,500-$3,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2008 Saturn Aura Premature Warped Front Brake Rotors?

First-generation Auras (especially 2007) are widely reported to warp their front brake rotors prematurely, producing steering-wheel and front-end shimmy under braking. Owners report rotors warping within a few thousand miles and needing repeated resurfacing or replacement, in som… Repairs typically run $250-$600. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura 2.4L Ecotec Excessive Oil Consumption?

Auras with the 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder (XE) can develop high oil consumption as they age, often attributed to worn piston oil-control rings allowing oil past the rings into the combustion chamber. Owners report burning roughly a quart every 1,000-2,000 miles, which can lead to… Repairs typically run $0-$3,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura 3.6L Random/Multiple-Cylinder Misfire?

The 3.6L V6 Auras are reported to throw misfire codes, frequently as a downstream symptom of the stretched timing chains but also from worn ignition coils/spark plugs or carbon buildup on the direct-injection intake valves. Owners experience rough idle, hesitation, and a check en… Repairs typically run $150-$800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2009 Saturn Aura EVAP Canister Purge Valve Failure (Check Engine Light)?

Auras commonly throw EVAP emissions faults, most often from a stuck-open or failing canister purge solenoid/valve (and sometimes a clogged charcoal canister or faulty fuel-tank pressure sensor). The result is a persistent check engine light and potential emissions-test failure. T… Repairs typically run $100-$350. Severity: low.