Segment:
Minivan / Extended Minivan
Key Competitors:
Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Freestar.
Unique Selling Points:
Focus on versatility, family-oriented features, distinctive Saturn styling, often available with all-wheel drive.
Powertrain:
Engine compartment layout, engine oil, fuel information, air filter(s), refill capacities, lubricant specifications.
Electrical & Electronics:
Instrument cluster indicators, warning lights, entertainment systems (radio, CD player), lighting controls.
Climate Control:
Operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Driver Controls:
Steering wheel controls, pedals, gear selector operation, parking brake.
Locks & Security:
Door locks, power windows, remote keyless entry, anti-theft system basics.
Seating & Safety:
Seat adjustment, seat belts, child seat LATCH system, airbag system information.
Driving Aids:
Operation of cruise control, basic driving tips for the specific vehicle type.
Cleaning & Care:
Exterior and interior cleaning procedures, upholstery care.
Customer Assistance:
Contact information for customer support, reporting safety defects (U.S. only).
Routine Maintenance:
Checking and topping off fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement guidance.
Basic Troubleshooting:
Interpreting dashboard warning lights, basic steps for common issues.
Operation Guidance:
Step-by-step instructions for using various vehicle features and systems.
Depth:
Covers user-level operations and maintenance. Does not typically include detailed diagnostic procedures or full repair instructions found in a service manual.
Engine Type:
3.5L V6 (GM LX9)
Horsepower:
201 hp @ 5600 rpm (for 2005-2006 models)
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for 2005-2006 models)
Horsepower 2007:
201 hp @ 5600 rpm (same as prior years, though minor tuning changes may exist across the model run)
Torque 2007:
220 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (same as prior years)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Regular Unleaded Gasoline
Configuration:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V6 configuration
Length:
Approximately 199.5 inches (dependent on configuration)
Width:
Approximately 72.5 inches
Height:
Approximately 69.5 inches
Cargo Volume:
Variable based on seat configuration, typically offering substantial cargo space.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4,100 - 4,400 lbs (varies by configuration and options)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely received 'Good' or 'Acceptable' ratings in frontal impact tests from NHTSA for its era.
NHTSA Side Impact:
Likely received 'Good' or 'Acceptable' ratings in side impact tests from NHTSA for its era.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, available side-impact airbags.
Child Safety:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for child seat installation.
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, available premium sound systems, and rear seat entertainment options.
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking assist sensors.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Standard or available remote keyless entry system.
Power Sliding Doors:
Available power-operated sliding doors for passenger convenience.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, but consult the manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Recommended every 7,500 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Typically recommended for replacement every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic is typically recommended.
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool (GM's orange extended-life coolant) is typically specified.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Like many minivans of this era, expect potential wear on suspension components (ball joints, tie rods), exhaust systems, and occasional electronic module failures.
Engine Oil Filter Part Number:
ACDelco PF2057 or equivalent is a common fitment, but always verify for specific VIN.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (3.5L V6), including filter.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters).
Saturn Philosophy:
Saturn was known for its polymer-composite body panels ('Dent-Resistant Panels') and customer-centric approach.
Introduction Year:
The Saturn Relay was introduced for the 2005 model year as part of GM's consolidation of its minivan offerings.
Platform Sharing:
It replaced the previous Saturn L-Series wagon and shared its platform with other GM minivans, including the Chevrolet Uplander, Pontiac Montana SV6, and Buick Terraza.
Manufacturing Location:
The U-platform minivans were primarily assembled at the GM Doraville Assembly plant in Doraville, Georgia.
Production End:
Saturn brand production ended in 2010, and thus the Relay was not produced beyond the 2007 model year for Saturn.
