🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

SATURN

Model:

Astra

Year:

2009

Generation Code:

Astra (A04/H)

Generation Years:

2004-2009 (European), 2008-2009 (North American)

Platform:

GM Delta Platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Car (C-segment)

Positioning:

The Saturn Astra was General Motors' attempt to offer a European-designed compact car in the North American market, aiming to compete with established models from Honda, Toyota, and Volkswagen.

Key Competitors 2009:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf/Rabbit, Mazda3, Ford Focus

Design Origin:

Based on the Opel Astra (GM's European division), known for its European styling and handling characteristics.

Body Styles Available North America:

Offered primarily as a 5-door hatchback in the North American market.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories

Page Count:

Estimated 250-350 pages (typical for a 2009 owner's manual)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Covers engine operation, basic troubleshooting, fluid types and capacities, air filter replacement, and general engine compartment information.

Electrical System:

Details instrument cluster indicators, lighting controls, battery maintenance, and potentially basic fuse box information.

Comfort Controls:

Comprehensive coverage of climate controls (HVAC) and entertainment systems (audio).

Safety Features:

Explains seating adjustments, seat belt usage, airbag system operation, and child restraint system (ISOFIX/LATCH) information.

Locks Security:

Covers door locking mechanisms, remote keyless entry, and basic anti-theft system operation.

Maintenance Procedures:

Includes information on checking and topping up fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, and basic cleaning procedures.

Driving Operations:

Guidance on starting the engine, shifting gears, using cruise control, and operating various driver controls.

Troubleshooting Basic:

Provides explanations for warning lights and basic advice for common minor issues.

Accessory Installation Info:

Mentions 'Accessories' as a covered area, suggesting information on factory-approved or compatible accessories.

Depth Level:

Owner-level maintenance and operation. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures, internal component repair, or complex electrical schematics typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text, enabling quick access to specific information via keywords.

Readability:

Requires PDF reader software (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader).

Printability:

PDF format allows for printing of pages.

Quality:

Digital copy of original factory manual, quality dependent on source scan.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Engine Code:

May vary, but common European versions used variants like Z20LET for turbo models and Z18XE for naturally aspirated.

Horsepower:

Approximately 138 hp (103 kW) @ 6000 rpm (for the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine offered in North America).

Torque:

Approximately 125 lb-ft (170 Nm) @ 3200 rpm (for the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for standard engine)

Engine Location:

Transverse, Front-mounted

Valve Train:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 4 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed in service manuals, but generally optimized for a balance of performance and fuel economy for the segment.

Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type and capacity (e.g., DEXRON-VI for automatic, specialized gear oil for manual).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 167.2 inches (4247 mm) for 5-door hatchback

Width:

Approx. 69.9 inches (1775 mm) (excluding mirrors)

Height:

Approx. 59.2 inches (1503 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.4 inches (2600 mm)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

Approx. 12.4 cu ft (350 Liters)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

Approx. 44.0 cu ft (1245 Liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3000-3200 lbs (1360-1450 kg), depending on transmission and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specific GVWR available in official documentation.

Towing Capacity:

Generally not recommended or specified for towing.

Standard Wheel Size:

16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels common.

Standard Tire Size:

Commonly 205/55R16 or 215/50R17, refer to vehicle placard for exact size.

Bolt Pattern:

5x110 mm

Center Bore:

65.1 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Results:

Refer to NHTSA database for specific 2009 model year ratings. Generally, models of this era scored well in frontal and side impact tests.

IIHS Crash Test Results:

Refer to IIHS database for specific 2009 model year ratings. The Astra generally performed well in IIHS tests.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esc:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (often standard on higher trims or later production).

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, side-impact airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Child Restraints:

ISOFIX/LATCH anchor points for child safety seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional premium audio systems (e.g., Bose) might be available depending on trim level. Aux input often standard or optional.

Display Type:

Monochromatic or color LCD screen for radio/climate information, depending on options.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control functionality.

Parking Assist:

Rear parking assist sensors were an optional feature.

Bluetooth:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling was an optional feature on higher trims or as part of an infotainment package.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil. Check manual for exact recommendation.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Recommend every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) during oil changes.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles or 48,000 km).

Coolant Replacement:

Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil (API SN or API SP certified).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change for the 2.0L engine.

Coolant Type:

GM Original Equipment (OE) 50/50 Dex-Cool® antifreeze/coolant (Orange).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Hydraulic Power Steering Fluid (refer to manual for specific type).

Common Complaints:

Some reported issues include minor electrical gremlins, occasional transmission shifting issues (especially with the automatic), and premature wear on certain suspension components. Catalytic converter issues have been noted on some GM vehicles of this era.

Part Numbers Example Air Filter:

ACDelco A3160C or equivalent (verify with VIN).

Part Numbers Example Oil Filter:

ACDelco PF46 or equivalent (verify with VIN).

📚 Vehicle History

Saturn Brand Mission:

Saturn was established by General Motors in 1985 as a distinct brand with a focus on customer service, innovative car design (e.g., polymer body panels), and a different retail experience.

Astra Origin:

The Saturn Astra is a rebadged version of the Opel Astra (H platform), a highly successful European compact car. GM introduced it to the North American market to bolster Saturn's small car offerings.

Market Entry North America:

Introduced for the 2008 model year in North America, with the 2009 model representing the initial production phase.

Manufacturing Location:

The North American Saturn Astra was primarily manufactured in Antwerp, Belgium (Opel's main plant).

Discontinuation:

Saturn brand was phased out by General Motors in 2010. The Astra was only sold for two model years (2008-2009) in North America.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

The European Opel Astra consistently received positive reviews for its driving dynamics and European styling, which translated to the Saturn Astra's appeal.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

EPA estimates for the 2.0L engine typically around 24 MPG city / 32 MPG highway for the manual transmission.