This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. This is a slight movement that is more often seen visually, rather than felt, when viewed from the outside and using the auto-start feature, if equipped.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2007 Saturn Aura powertrain problems
moderate 167 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
167
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
5crashes
3injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 167 powertrain complaints filed for the 2007 Saturn Aura, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 100,000-125,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 167 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Powertrain accounts for 28% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 12 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of water or ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides technicians with information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners of 2007 Saturn Auras describe two dominant powertrain failures: shifter cable breakage and transmission wave-plate collapse.
The shifter cable snaps or separates between roughly 34,000 and 86,000 miles. When it fails, the car won't engage Park reliably, rolls downhill with the shifter in Park position, and often won't start unless shifted to Neutral. Some owners have been stranded when this happens in winter; at least one elderly driver found herself stuck for three hours. Owners report GM dealers denying warranty coverage on mileage grounds, even when internal bulletins (TSB PIP-4327A) and recall campaigns (09V073000, 14V224000, 14404A) exist for the identical defect on neighboring model years. Repair cost runs $300–$625 per owner report.
The 6T70/6T75 six-speed transmission exhibits catastrophic wave-plate failure. The internal clutch plate disintegrates, sending metal shavings through the gears. Owners experience sudden loss of highway power, inability to shift out of third gear, no-reverse conditions, and complete transmission failure. Technicians have found metal particles and white plastic fragments in transmission fluid. Full replacement runs $3,000–$6,000. GM issued a technical service bulletin identifying the faulty design and released updated parts in 2009, but has not recalled pre-2009 Auras for the condition. Some owners report being denied reimbursement despite TSBs because their mileage exceeded coverage limits.
Additional issues include transmission control module solenoid failure, a one-to-two-second accelerator lag during highway merges, brake light illumination without pedal input, timing chain stretch requiring costly repair, and in one case, unintended acceleration post-repair. Cold-weather key-stick and electrical glitches round out owner complaints. Safety concerns center on sudden power loss on freeways and the car rolling or accelerating unexpectedly when the shifter is in Park.
Same Saturn Aura powertrain reports on nearby years: 2008 · 2009
Failure modes owners describe
Shifter Cable Breakage / Separation
The transmission shift cable snaps, separates, or fractures, preventing proper engagement of Park, Drive, Reverse, and Neutral gears. The physical cable connecting the gear selector to the transmission linkage fails structurally, often without warning.
When: Typically between 34,000–86,000 miles; some failures as early as three weeks of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Car will not shift into Park, or Park does not engage despite shifter indicating Park; Car rolls forward or backward when shifter is in Park position; Car requires manual shift to Neutral to start engine; Shifter stuck or difficult to move between gears; Car starts only in Neutral, not in Park; Automatic door locks fail to engage when Park is selected; Check Engine light comes on; Service Traction / Ice Possible warnings appear
Codes mentioned: P0700
Repairs/costs cited: Shift cable and bracket replacement costs cited from $322.68 to $625 depending on dealer. Owners report GM dealers initially denied warranty coverage citing mileage and normal wear and tear. Some replacements done at dealer at no charge after owner escalation.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB PIP-4327A (2007–2009 Saturn Aura and Outlook, 2008–2009 Saturn Vue). Recall 09V073000 for column-shift models, but many 2007 Auras reported as not included in recall despite having identical part. Recall 14V224000 (Powertrain) issued later but reported as excluding some VINs. Special Coverage Adjustment 14404A mentioned by some owners. GM customer service allegedly denied claims on mileage grounds even when vehicles fell within technical service bulletins.
6T70/6T75 Transmission Wave Plate Failure
The transmission clutch wave plate (also called reaction plate) is a defective design that heats up, disintegrates, and shreds internal components into the transmission fluid and gears. Fragments become trapped in gears and bearing surfaces, causing catastrophic transmission failure.
When: Early failures reported within weeks of ownership; most reported between 45,000–100,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of power while driving at highway speeds; Car will not shift out of 3rd gear or becomes stuck in one gear; Transmission slips, flares, or exhibits harsh shifts in 3rd and 5th gear; No Reverse gear function; Transmission slipping between 40–50 mph, engine racing at high RPM with low vehicle speed; Car slowed to 15–20 mph or 35–39 mph range despite accelerator input; Metal shavings or white plastic particles found in transmission fluid by technician; Check Engine light illuminates; Loud grinding or shuddering noises during shifting
Codes mentioned: P0776, P0717, P0756, P0989, P0016, P0017, P0018, P0019, P0300, P0455, P0690, P0700
Repairs/costs cited: Full transmission replacement cost $3,000–$6,000. One owner paid $650 for sensors/solenoids and $2,167.34 at dealership (partial reimbursement $1,050). Owners report timing belt or chain also stretched (not replaced per dealer advice). Internal pressure sensor solenoid, transmission control module also failed in one case. Transmission Control Module (TCM) replacement cited at $1,328.11. Timing chain replacement estimated $2,000–$4,000 but often deferred.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB PIP-4327A identifies the weak wave plate design. Technical Service Bulletin issued September 18, 2012. Updated wave plates were released by GM in 2009 for replacement. GM offered Special Coverage Adjustment / Reimbursement 14404A for transmission clutch wave plate failure, but owners report being denied compensation due to mileage thresholds. No full recall issued. Owners report being left with check engine lights and rough shifting, unable to register or pass emissions without additional $2,000–$5,000 repairs.
Transmission Control Module (TCM) / Solenoid Failure
The transmission control module or internal solenoids fail, causing the transmission to lose electronic control and fail to shift properly. One owner encountered stuck-off shift solenoid B and failed internal pressure sensor solenoid.
When: Not always specified; one case noted at service visit following transmission slipping symptoms
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission will not shift out of 3rd gear; Transmission won't engage—remains in Neutral; Shift solenoid B stuck in off position; Check Engine light
Codes mentioned: P0756, P0989
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement of 4 speed sensors/solenoids cost $650 at independent shop. TCM replacement at dealership cost $1,050 (part of $2,167.34 bill). Parts alone $1,328.11 for control valve and internal pressure sensor solenoid.
Accelerator Lag / Drive-by-Wire Delay
A 1–2 second delay occurs between pressing the accelerator pedal and engine response. Dangerous during highway merging, passing, and acceleration from stops. Owner research suggests design issue with drive-by-wire / 6-speed transmission combination not widely documented by GM.
When: Intermittent; reported from early ownership
Symptoms owners cite: One-to-two-second delay between accelerator press and vehicle acceleration; Near-misses when attempting to pass other vehicles; Near-miss rear-ending at 50+ mph during highway acceleration; Hesitation during merging onto highways; Dangerous lag when accelerating from stops
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer unable to reproduce the issue. No repair cited.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer and owner research suggested delay is normal for drive-by-wire systems, but owner found this explanation insufficient given the safety risk.
Brake Light Switch Failure
Brake lights illuminate when the brake pedal is not being pressed. Occurs intermittently and can confuse following drivers. Related to electrical failure in brake light switch.
When: Intermittent; one case reported recurring seven months after initial repair
Symptoms owners cite: Brake lights illuminate without foot on brake pedal; Brake lights go off when brake pedal is depressed; Brake lights come back on when brake pedal is fully pressed; Lights engage spontaneously during acceleration or steady driving
Repairs/costs cited: Brake light switch replacement. One owner reported recurrence seven months later at approximately 90,000 miles.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM offered no assistance when failure recurred post-repair. No recall or warranty coverage noted by owner.
Shifter Stuck in Gear / Gear Engagement Difficulty
The physical shifter becomes stuck, difficult, or impossible to move between gears. Often accompanies cable or mechanical linkage failure. Car may be locked in one gear (usually Drive).
When: Varies; one case within three weeks of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Extreme difficulty shifting from Park to Drive or between any gears; Shifter completely stuck, unable to move; Car locked in Drive; cannot shift into any other gear; Shifter requires excessive force to engage gears; Shifter becomes stuck after being in Park overnight; Shifter moves but gears do not engage
Repairs/costs cited: Shifter replacement in one case did not resolve the underlying cable problem and had to be replaced again. Mechanic diagnosed shifter cable 'all but separated.' Independent repair shop noted newly designed bracket (different from original), suggesting GM awareness of the defect.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM required diagnosis at authorized dealership before discussing compensation. Denied coverage under safety recalls claiming normal wear and tear, despite bulletin evidence of known defect affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles.
Timing Chain / Belt Stretch
The timing chain or belt stretches, causing camshaft timing to drift out of synchronization with crankshaft position. Symptoms include misfire, rough idle, and hard acceleration. Repair is costly and often deferred.
When: Varies; one case noted with P0016/P0017 codes in 2007 Aura at unspecified mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Check Engine light; Loss of power on acceleration; Engine almost stalls on acceleration from dead stop; Rough idle; P0016 and P0017 codes (crankshaft to camshaft correlation)
Repairs/costs cited: Timing chain replacement estimated $2,000–$4,000. One dealership advised against replacement and told owner to drive vehicle carefully despite known stretch, allowing Check Engine light to remain on. Repair not performed.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 11340C issued with Special Coverage for 'every other GM vehicle with the same problem' but not for 2007 Aura. Owner frustrated that 3.6L V6 models were excluded from coverage.
Transmission Stuck in Limp Mode / Reduced Power
Transmission enters a fail-safe 'limp mode' where it will not downshift or upshift above a certain gear, and engine output is severely limited. The vehicle becomes undriveable on highways and merging situations.
When: Often sudden; one case reported after short trip to bank
Symptoms owners cite: Car will not shift above 3rd or 4th gear; Engine races at high RPM (3,000–4,000) with minimal vehicle speed (15–40 mph); Severe jerking and kicking when attempting acceleration; Vehicle loses power mid-drive; Cannot accelerate past 5 mph in Drive despite engine revving; Transmission shudders and slips during shifting; Harsh or rough shifting
Codes mentioned: P0700, P0776, P0716
Repairs/costs cited: Owners received estimates of $3,600–$4,200 for transmission overhaul or replacement. One owner paid $1,050 out of $2,167.34 dealership bill.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB recommends software/TCM update as initial 'go-to' response, but owners report this rarely resolves the issue. Special Coverage Adjustment 14404A mentioned but with mileage limitations.
Cold-Weather Ignition Key Stuck
In cold winter conditions, the ignition key becomes stuck and cannot be removed from the ignition switch after engine shutdown. Leaves driver with key inserted while attempting to exit vehicle.
When: Cold winter weather
Symptoms owners cite: Key cannot be removed from ignition in cold weather; Key stuck in ignition switch; Appears to release intermittently once vehicle is warm
Repairs/costs cited: No repair cited; owner continues to experience issue.
Control Module Electrical Glitches
Electrical failures in onboard control systems cause erratic behavior including unexpected automatic locking/unlocking, radio and OnStar activation without user command, and repeated battery drain.
When: Intermittent; one case involved multiple battery replacements
Symptoms owners cite: Door locks engage/disengage without user command; OnStar and radio activate spontaneously via voice command; Repeated battery loss and power drain; Battery replaced four times due to unexplained power loss
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replaced multiple times without resolving root electrical issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified but unable to assist. Vehicle not diagnosed or repaired.
Unintended Acceleration / Engine Revving
Engine revs to high RPM and accelerates the vehicle despite the driver's intent. Occurs after transmission repair or as an isolated event. Brakes must be applied firmly to stop vehicle.
When: Post-repair in one case; spontaneous in another
Symptoms owners cite: Engine races to high RPM without user pedal input; Vehicle accelerates despite shifter in Park; Vehicle continues to rev even after shifting into Park; Brakes must be gradually or firmly applied to stop
Repairs/costs cited: Occurred after transmission shift cable repair. Subsequent dealer visits found no failure.
Synthesized from 167 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
I was in the process of parking my vehicle at the grocery store with my 1 year old daughter. I went to put my car in park and it was very difficult to do so. I thought that something may have occluded the gear shift, so I took the car out of park and attempted to shift into the different gears and it eventually became impossible to shift any further and my car was stuck in drive. The vehicle was…
While driving the car stopped and would only go into reverse. It had to be towed by pushing the car onto the tow truck. It had previously been fixed due to the transmission not staying in drive, this was from a previous recall.
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Saturn aura. The contact stated that the brake and the air bag warning lights illuminated. The contact also stated that the instrument cluster failed when attempting to change gears. In addition, the rear passenger door lock failed. The VIN was included in NHTSA campaign numbers: 14v252000 (electrical system, electronic stability control, exterior lighting, service…
Tl* the contact owns a 2007 Saturn aura. The contact stated that when the vehicle was turned off, parked and the key was removed from the ignition, he was still able to erroneously move the gear shifter from park. The contact stated that the vehicle had never rolled away because he constantly used the emergency parking brake. The contact was told by the auto parts store there was a NHTSA recall…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2007 Saturn Aura?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2007 Saturn Aura?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 167 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 143 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 65,000 and 106,803 miles, with the median around 89,884. A quarter of owners report trouble before 65,000; a quarter make it past 106,803. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2007/Saturn/Aura.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.