2005 Saturn Relay Problems & Reliability

Hey there! If you’re a car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a good ride, you’ve probably heard of the Saturn Relay. This mid-2000s minivan was Saturn’s attempt to break into the family vehicle market, offering a blend of practicality and style. But like any vehicle, the 2005 Saturn Relay had its fair share of quirks and issues. In this blog post, we’re diving into the common problems that owners have faced with this model and taking a closer look at its overall reliability. Whether you’re considering buying a used one or just curious about its history, we’ve got you covered. Now, let’s be real—no car is perfect, and the 2005 Saturn Relay is no exception. From electrical gremlins to transmission troubles, this minivan has kept its owners on their toes. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom. We’ll also explore how the Relay stacks up in terms of reliability compared to its peers and what you can do to keep it running smoothly if you already have one parked in your driveway. So, buckle up and join us as we navigate the ups and downs of the 2005 Saturn Relay!
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay has a common issue where the check engine light comes on due to a loose or faulty gas cap. This problem is relatively minor and can often be resolved by simply tightening or replacing the gas cap. Overall, while it’s an inconvenience, it doesn’t significantly impact the vehicle’s reliability.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • High Pressure Power Steering Hose Can Leak Fluid

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay seems to have a common issue with the high pressure power steering hose, which can leak fluid. This problem can lead to steering difficulties and potentially more costly repairs if not addressed promptly. While this issue doesnt necessarily define the overall reliability of the vehicle, its definitely something to keep an eye on if youre considering or currently own a Saturn Relay from this year.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Check Engine Light and Trouble Filling Gas Tank

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay seems to have some reliability issues, particularly with the check engine light frequently coming on and problems with filling the gas tank. These issues can be frustrating for owners, as they might indicate underlying mechanical problems that need attention. While not every Relay will experience these problems, they are common enough to be a concern for potential buyers or current owners.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Corrosion of the Fuel Tank Harness Due to Water Leak

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay has had some issues with the corrosion of the fuel tank harness due to water leaks. This problem can lead to electrical issues and potentially affect the vehicle’s performance over time. While not every owner may experience this, it’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this model.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Front Brake Rotor Wear Can Cause Pulsations

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay seems to have some issues with front brake rotor wear, which can lead to pulsations when braking. This problem might not be a deal-breaker, but it’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this vehicle. Overall, while the Relay has its quirks, regular maintenance can help keep it running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Front Struts May Wear at 75,000 Miles

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay seems to have a common issue with the front struts wearing out around the 75,000-mile mark. While this isn’t an immediate deal-breaker, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering buying one or already own it. Regular maintenance and keeping an eye on the struts can help maintain the vehicle’s overall reliability.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • A/C off for Engine Protection and Engine Reads Cold

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay seems to have some issues with the A/C system, particularly with the A/C turning off for engine protection and the engine reading cold. These problems can be a bit annoying, especially during extreme weather conditions, as they might affect the comfort and performance of the vehicle. Overall, while the Relay has its quirks, addressing these specific issues can help improve its reliability.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Flush brake fluid every 60,000 miles

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay generally holds up well in terms of reliability, but one thing to keep an eye on is the brake fluid. It’s recommended to flush the brake fluid every 60,000 miles to maintain optimal braking performance and avoid potential issues. Staying on top of this maintenance task can help ensure your Relay runs smoothly and safely.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • Inspect transmission/fluid every 30,000 miles

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay has had some issues with its transmission, so it’s a good idea to inspect the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles to keep things running smoothly. Regular checks can help catch any potential problems early and might save you from bigger headaches down the road. Overall, while the Relay has its quirks, staying on top of maintenance like this can help maintain its reliability.

Flagship-One-Engine-Computer-In-Stock
Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Contamination of extended life coolant

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay has had some issues with the contamination of extended life coolant, which can lead to engine cooling problems and potential overheating. This kind of problem can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, as it may require more frequent maintenance and repairs to keep the cooling system in check. If you’re considering a used Saturn Relay, it’s a good idea to have the cooling system thoroughly inspected to avoid any unexpected issues.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

  • Replace spark plugs every 100,000 miles

Analysis:

The 2005 Saturn Relay is generally considered to have decent reliability, but like any vehicle, it has its quirks. One of the key maintenance tasks is replacing the spark plugs every 100,000 miles to keep it running smoothly. Staying on top of this and other routine maintenance can help prevent some of the common issues reported by owners.

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Conclusion

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