Before you buy
This 2009 Saturn Outlook has 192 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Headlight/Taillight Failures.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2009 Saturn Outlook Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 2 2009 Saturn Outlook trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 2 trims analysed.
2009 Saturn Outlook Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not Rated15.5% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
15.5% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2009 Saturn Outlook has 192 owner complaints, 5 crash-related complaints, and 7 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Headlight/Taillight Failures. NHTSA reliability signal: Notable Issues.
- Make
- Saturn
- Model
- Outlook
- Model year
- 2009
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 192
- Crash-related complaints
- 5
- Safety recall campaigns
- 7
- Top reported component
- Headlight/Taillight Failures
- Reliability signal
- Notable Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 19
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 17 / 24
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2009 Saturn Outlook problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Headlight/Taillight Failures
Electrical Faults
Steering Defects
Complaint patterns center on Headlight/Taillight Failures, Electrical Faults, Steering Defects. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2009 Saturn Outlook?
This SATURN OUTLOOK year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection.
Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who prioritize complete maintenance records and pass a pre-purchase inspection.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers who want a lower-risk ownership profile may prefer comparing nearby model years before committing.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2009 Saturn Outlook
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the most frequently reported complaint components on this model year
- Confirm recall repairs were completed and documented
- Check for accident damage, title brands, and mileage inconsistencies on the exact VIN
Before You Close the Deal
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2009 Saturn Outlook, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
The SATURN OUTLOOK has 192 NHTSA complaints and 7 recalls on record. 5 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Recall context: 7 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase.
- 192 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 7 federal recall campaigns
- 5 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Full breakdown
All 2009 Saturn Outlook complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2009 Saturn Outlook. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 75 | 1 | 2 | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 44 | 1 | 2 | — | |
| Steering Defects | 42 | 2 | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 21 | — | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 19 | 1 | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 8 | 1 | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 8 | — | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 7 | 2 | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 1 | 1 | — | — | |
| Equipment Adaptive/Mobility | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2009 Saturn Outlook. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
The contact owns a 2009 Saturn Outlook. The contact stated that stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound and stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road. The vehicle failed t…
I was driving and my car started to lurch and went into reduced power mode. I quickly pulled over and turned off the engine. It was towed into the shop, and we found that the timing chain had broken. We had just had our engine mounts replaced and the oil changed. The vehicle has …
UNKNOWN We have only had this vehicle for approximately 4 months and have had soon many issues but the electrical system has been a problem non stop
I bought this 2009 Saturn Outlook yesterday from a used dealership they said there was nothing wrong with the car well I live over 100 miles away from where I bough it and about halfway home it’s it was dark outside I was driving on the highway going up a hill the motor was actin…
I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND ALL OF A SUDDEN MY CAR SLOWED DOWN REALLY SLOW I PULLED OVER AND TURNED IT OFF. WHEN I TRIED TO TURN IT BACK ON IT WOULDN'T CRANK.
THE TIMING CHAIN IS GETTING STRETCHED IS WHAT THE CODES SAY AND NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED FEELS LIKE IT'S LOOSING POWER
I STOPPER THE VEHICLE, IN MY DRIVE WAY, WHICH HAS A VERY SLIGHT INCLINE, PLACED THE SHIFT LEVER IN PARK. EXITED AND LOCKED THE VEHICLE. AS I WAS STEPPING AWAY IT STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARDS. IT STOPPED ON ITS OWN AFTER ROLLING BACKWARDS SEVERAL FEET. I UNLOCKED THE VEHICLE, APPLIED…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SATURN OUTLOOK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SECOND-ROW PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT BELT MALFUNCTIONED AND CEASED AND WOULD NOT LATCH SECURELY. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER COLE KRUM CHEVROLET LOCATED AT 12707 US-131, SCHOOLCR…
PAST 5 YEARS CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. REPLACES PLUGS 3X, CONVERTERS 3X, AND EVERYTHING INCLUDING IGNITION COILS 2X, LIGHT STILL ON, STATING CONVERTERS NEED REPLACING. CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP MORE THAN A HOSPITAL HAS EMERGENCY ROOM PATIENTS. ENGINE LIGHT WOULD STAY OFF FOR A WEEK O…
MY HEADLIGHTS KEEP GOING OUT RANDOMLY AND THIS VERY UNSAFE AS I AM A SINGLE MOTHER OF 2 YOUNG CHILDREN! I HAVE HAD IT FIXED 4 TIMES! THE LAST TIME I TOOK IT TO THE SHOP, I WAS TOLD THE WIRING HARNESS KEEPS MELTING. I RESEARCHED THIS PROBLEM AND MANY OTHERS ARE ALSO HAVING EXPERIE…
THERE IS A RECALL FOR THE LINKAGE SYSTEM, WHERE THE VEHICLE STILL ROLLS WHILE IN PARK. I AM HAVING THIS ISSUE AND A GRINDING SORT OF SOUND. THE VIN IS SAYING 0 UNREPAIRED RECALLS ON THE WEBSITE AND I BELIEVE THIS ISSUE IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM OF THE PREVIOUS RECALL IN '09. WHILE …
DRIVER HEADLIGHT HARNESS OVERHEATS, CAUSING HEADLIGHT TO GO OUT. THIS HAS HAPPENED THREE TIMES NOW IN LESS THAN TWO YEARS. I REPLACED THE CONNECTOR HARNESS AND WITHIN A FEW WEEKS IT HAD MELTED AND THE LIGHT WAS OUT AGAIN. WHEN I LOOKED UP WHAT TO DO I FOUND OUT THAT MANY OTHER SA…
THE HEADLIGHT WIRING HAS MELTED
MIDDLE ROW OUTBOARD SEATBELTS NEEDED REPLACING IN 2016; GM WOULDN'T WARRANTY THEM, EVEN AFTER I ASKED THEIR SAFETY DEPARTMENT 2X. I REPLACED THEM WITH NEW ONES FROM GM, AND THOSE SEATBELTS ARE NOW COMING APART. THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM. PICTURES ATTACHED ARE CURRENT.
MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT WHEN THE POWER STEERING PUMP I WILL SAY EXPLODED FLUID EVERYWHERE AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NO LONGER TURN AT ALL I'M 6'1 270 ATHLETIC AND COULD NOT MOVE THE STEERING WHEEL...I HAVE READ SO MANY PEOPLE HAVING THE SAME POWER S…
IN 2016, I PURCHASED A 2009 SATURN OUTLOOK FROM A DEALER, WITH 90,000 MILES ON IT. TWO MONTHS LATER, "TRANSMISSION OVERHEATING, LET ENGINE IDLE" INDICATOR CAME ON, AND THE SATURN SHUT ITSELF DOWN AS I DROVE DOWN I-35! MECHANIC SAID THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG. THEY RESET …
I WAS UNLOADING GROCERIES AT HOME CAR WAS OFF AND PARKED AND THE REAR LIFT GATE RELEASED AND TRIED TO CLOSE WITH ME IN WAY IT FELL AND HIT MY BACK CAUSING PAIN AND TRIED TO CO TINUE TO CLOSE ON ME I HAD TO PUSHT THE LIFT GATE OPEN AND IT RESISTED
TAKATA RECALL I BOUGHT MY VEHICLE AT THE END OF MAY, 2018. MY ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AT THE BEGINING OF OCTOBER, 2018. I HAD GOT IN MY VEHICLE AND STAYED THE ENGINE AMD IT CAME ON. I IMMEDIATELY TOOK IT TO ADVANCE AUTO TO GET THEM TO HOOK THE HAND HELD COMPUTER TO THE VEHICLE TO…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SATURN OUTLOOK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED A PROGRESSIVE LOSS OF ELECTRICAL POWER WITHOUT WARNING. LARRY FANNIN CHEVROLET BUICK GMC (329 E MAIN ST, MOREHEAD, KY 40351, (800) 467-0411) INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EXCLUDED FROM TH…
THE PASSENGER SIDE LOW BEAM LIGHT NO LONGER WORKS, AND BULB REPLACEMENT DOES NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. MECHANIC SAID THE WIRING HARNESS NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2009 Saturn Outlook.
Safety recalls
2009 Saturn Outlook recalls
7 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2009 Saturn Outlook. 7 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
SEAT BELTS
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
SEAT BELTS
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
SEAT BELTS: REAR/OTHER:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2009 Saturn Outlook buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2009 Saturn Outlook reliable?▾
Notable Issues. NHTSA currently shows 192 owner complaints, 5 crash-related complaints, and 7 recall campaigns for this model year. This SATURN OUTLOOK year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2009 Saturn Outlook?▾
#1: Headlight/Taillight Failures (75 complaints). #2: Electrical Faults (44 complaints). #3: Steering Defects (42 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2009 Saturn Outlook?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2009 Saturn Outlook?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2009 Saturn Outlook, NHTSA complaints include 5 crash-related reports and 3 fire reports out of 192 total complaints. 6 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2009 Saturn Outlook have any recalls?▾
Yes. 7 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2009 Saturn Outlook. A major recall area is STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE. 7 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2009 Saturn Outlook?▾
This SATURN OUTLOOK year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs. Pay extra attention to Headlight/Taillight Failures during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpectorAI.
Wider context: See the full Saturn Outlook reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.