Worried about parts?
akboss
01-05-2010, 09:13 AM
Me and my wife are looking to buy a new (to us) compact SUV, and the Saturn Vue keeps coming up as a good bargain in the industry. But, I'm worried that with Saturn being out of production that parts are going to be scarce in the future. Have any of the Vue owners out there inquired as to what parts availability will be like in the future?
I'd love to buy, but on the fence because of this concern.
Cheers.
I'd love to buy, but on the fence because of this concern.
Cheers.
ricebike
01-05-2010, 10:04 AM
http://www.saturnfans.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1563131
the last post on that thread is partly right; just goolgle other saturn-specific sites for more research... i think GM supposed to make parts 10 years after the last production, but can't find the site right now <shrugs>
then, there's always the salvage yard route
http://www.saturnfans.com/forums/index.php
well that site's got lotsa info, browse around there and make a more informed decision on your purchase!
the last post on that thread is partly right; just goolgle other saturn-specific sites for more research... i think GM supposed to make parts 10 years after the last production, but can't find the site right now <shrugs>
then, there's always the salvage yard route
http://www.saturnfans.com/forums/index.php
well that site's got lotsa info, browse around there and make a more informed decision on your purchase!
MagicRat
01-05-2010, 01:18 PM
The aftermarket auto parts industry keeps 'orphan' makes well-supplied for years after their manufacturer pulls out of a market. in addition, Saturn Vue shared mechanical parts with other GM makes. So the vast majority of parts will be no problem for many, many years.
The only problem you may have is with non-mechanical parts, ones that rarely see replacement, like interior trim pieces and some body panels. However, the dealers usually want so much money for these that you wouldn't go there anyways, you would go to a wrecking yard.
IMO the only problem with getting a Saturn is if you have to resell it. In several years, Saturns will be worth almost nothing, regardless of condition, much the way Isuzus are today. So, hopefully you are planning to keep the beast for many years. :)
The only problem you may have is with non-mechanical parts, ones that rarely see replacement, like interior trim pieces and some body panels. However, the dealers usually want so much money for these that you wouldn't go there anyways, you would go to a wrecking yard.
IMO the only problem with getting a Saturn is if you have to resell it. In several years, Saturns will be worth almost nothing, regardless of condition, much the way Isuzus are today. So, hopefully you are planning to keep the beast for many years. :)
akboss
01-05-2010, 03:20 PM
Alright, you guys have given me lots to think about. The Ford Escape is around the same price for a used SUV (2005-2006, $10-12K CAD) so if they are still making those I may also look into that route. But IMO the Vue looks better, inside and out.
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