Info - Aura - New Model Features and Service Guide

This is a special bulletin to introduce the new Saturn Aura. The purpose of this bulletin is to make you familiar with the vehicle's features and describe the action that your Service Department will need to take to ensure that you are able to fully service this exciting new model.

The purpose of this section is to familiarize you with the technical aspects of the vehicle. It is important to know the Aura is built from the same platform as the Pontiac G6 and the Chevrolet Malibu.

Models

The Aura comes in 2 different models:

Standard on the XE is the 3.5L (RPO LZ4) V6. The LZ4 produces 224 hp @ 5800 rpm and 220 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.

Standard on the XR is the 3.6L (RPO LY7) DOHC V6. The LY7 engine produces 252 hp @ 4000 rpm and 251 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm.

Both engines are equipped with Variable Valve Timing (VVT). This feature enhances the torque performance, improves fuel economy, and reduces emissions.

The engines also come with the GM Oil Life System to optimize the oil change frequency. Other maintenance free features include 160,000 km (100,000 mi) platinum-tip spark plugs and 240,000 km (150,000 mi) coolant. Refer to the Owner Manual for the appropriate maintenance schedule.

The XE model Aura comes with the 4T45E 4-speed automatic transaxle. The shifter indicator is PRNDIL. Selection of "D", "I" and "L" should be used as follows:

The XR model comes with the 6T70 6-speed automatic transaxle. The shifter indicator is PRNDM. Selection of "D" and "M" should be used as follows:

Important: When the vehicle is in "Manual" mode, the only time it will shift automatically is when the vehicle is slowing down. The transmission will downshift when vehicle speed is below the minimum speed for a particular gear to protect the engine from bucking or stalling.

This Saturn vehicle uses hydraulic rack and pinion power steering. This power steering has variable ratio steering which allows for consistent steering effort regardless of where the steering is positioned in the steering maneuver.

The steering column is adjustable both up and down (tilt) and in and out (telescoping). To adjust the steering column, pull down on the lever on the left side of the steering column. After the lever is loose, raise or lower the steering wheel and also push in or pull out on the wheel to position it in a comfortable position. Once the wheel is in a comfortable position, raise the lever to lock the column in position.

The Aura comes with available adjustable pedals. This feature is part of the "Enhanced Convenience" package (RPO PDD). This feature is meant to be used with the adjustable seat and adjustable steering wheel to reach a safe and comfortable position. The control for this feature is located on the I/P to the left of the steering column. The pedals can only be adjusted when the vehicle is in PARK (the key does not need to be in the ignition).

The front suspension uses an independent strut-type design with forged aluminum control arms. The rear suspension is a four link suspension with cast aluminum rear control arms.

The Saturn Aura comes standard with four-wheel disc brakes, ABS and dynamic rear proportioning. Traction control is also a standard feature on the Saturn Aura. The XR model also comes standard with StabiliTrak® vehicle stability control system. The XE sports 17" wheels (high vent steel is standard and a machined flangeless alloy is available) and the XR comes standard with 18" flangeless 14-spoke alloy wheels.

The Aura is equipped with the PASS-KEY III+® theft deterrent system. PASS-KEY III+® uses a radio frequency transponder in the key that matches a decoder in the vehicle (theft deterrent module). The theft deterrent module contains the logic and communicates through GM LAN to the ECM which is the immobilizer. They communicate using the BCM as a pass-through. PASS-KEY III+® is a passive system - it works when the key is inserted or removed from the ignition. If PASS-KEY III+® senses the wrong key is being used, it prevents the vehicle from starting.

The following components contain codes or passwords, or must learn codes and passwords for the PASS-KEY III+® system to allow the vehicle to start:

Important: If the theft deterrent module or an ignition key is replaced, a learn procedure must be performed. If the parts are replaced and a learn procedure is not performed, the engine will not crank.

There are two available methods to perform the theft deterrent programming/learn procedure (refer to Theft Deterrent Control Module Programming and Setup (Domestic) or Theft Deterrent Control Module Programming and Setup (Canadian) in SI):

The PASS-KEY III+® decoder has the ability to "learn" the transponder value of a new or replacement key. Up to 10 keys may be programmed for the vehicle.

Programming Additional Keys

If the original key is available, please refer to Adding Keys in SI to program additional keys.

The Driver Information Center (DIC) in the Aura is located in the lower section of the speedometer display. The DIC is controlled through two buttons located on the left side of the steering wheel. The ignition must be in the RUN position for the DIC to function. The button with the page icon is used to scroll through the vehicle information mode displays. The following vehicle information is available:

To reset the information while it is being displayed, press the arrow button.

Important: If a warning message is displayed on the DIC during normal operation, the arrow button can be used to clear the display screen for further use. However, this will not resolve the concern or erase any DTCs.

To personalize some of the vehicles features press both buttons (the page icon and arrow) at the same time to enter the Menu (Personalization) mode. Use the page button to scroll through the personalization features. The arrow button is used to toggle between the available options for each feature. Pressing the page button will record the selected option along with scrolling to the end of the menu.

Access to the personalization features (except Units) is not available while the vehicle is moving. The vehicle must be in "P" Park to access full personalization features.

The vehicle personalization features include:

Remote keyless entry is standard on all Aura vehicles. Utilize the DIC Vehicle Personalization to enable/disable horn chirps and flashing lights.

Important: The vehicle can be warmed or cooled to the desired cabin temperature using remote start.

Important: The remote start feature will not operate if the hood is open or there are active DTCs.

Remote vehicle start is standard on all XR models, and is available on the XE model when the "Convenience Package" (RPO PCR) is added to the vehicle. This allows the vehicle to be started up to 60 m (197 ft) away. After a remote vehicle start, the engine will automatically shut off after 10 minutes if the key is not inserted into the ignition switch and turned to RUN. The maximum number of remote starts between ignition key cycles is two. To initiate a "remote start" press and release the "Lock" button on the key fob and then press and hold the start button on the key fob until the vehicle starts (approximately 3 seconds). To turn off the vehicle, do one of the following:

The Saturn Aura is equipped with the GM Black Tie Radio. The two radios offered are:

The US8 radio is standard on the XE model and the US9 is standard on the XR model and is available on the XE model.

The US9 radio also comes with rear seat entertainment (RSE) which includes two wireless headphones (with provisions for two wired headphones) for different audio listening in the back seat. The rear seat passengers can listen to a CD (which is loaded in the front radio) while the front passengers listen to a radio station (FM, AM, or XM) or vice versa. When the RSE is turned on the rear speakers will turn off. The radio in the front does not have to be turned on for the rear seat passenger to use the RSE system. (Note: the AUX jack is also an option for independent listening.)

If the front passengers are listening to a radio station (FM or AM), then the rear seat passengers cannot listen to a different radio station (FM or AM). However, they can listen to the same station using the headphones.

The radio antenna for the Aura is located in the backlight (rear window). There is an antenna amplifier module located just under the rear edge of the headliner, which then connects to the antenna in the backlight. For service information, refer to Antenna Amplifier Replacement in SI.

The Aura is equipped with speed sensitive wipers. This feature allows the wiper speed, when set on "Intermittent," to increase and decrease with vehicle speed.

The power outside rearview mirrors may be adjusted using the controls located at the upper forward edge of the driver door panel. Use the selector switch located above the four-way control panel to choose either the left or right outside mirror. It is important to press the control button at the 12 o'clock, 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, or 9 o'clock position in order to move the mirrors. If the control button is pressed between these positions (arrows), the mirrors may not move.

To apply the parking brake, press on the pedal located near the left kick panel. To release the parking brake, again press on the same pedal so it travels one notch further and then release the pedal.

The Aura is equipped with an automatic lamp control system which automatically turns the headlamps and other exterior lamps on at dusk or when necessary. The exterior lamps can also be operated manually by using the multifunction lever on the left side of the steering column. The I/P and radio dimming is not integrated in the headlamp switch. The automatic lamp control system must determine if it's dark enough to dim the I/P and radio lights (even when the headlights are manually turned on). The sensor is located on top of the dash in the middle, and it is important to not cover it, because this may cause the headlights to turn on (even if not needed).

When the windshield wipers are turned on, the headlights will come on after approximately 15 seconds and will stay on until the wipers are turned off. If the automatic lamp control system determines it is not dark enough when the headlights are on due to the wipers being on, the I/P and radio lights will not dim.

There are two styles of sunroofs available on the Aura.

The panoramic roof is new to Saturn. It is the same roof assembly that is currently used in the Pontiac G6. There are four opening settings for this roof.

The sunshade will open to each position or be completely opened by pressing the sunshade control button located in the map light control bezel. The sunshade will not close all the way if the roof is open. To lessen wind noise when the sunroof is in position 4, close the sunshade to the comfort stop position.

The roof will operate while the ignition key is in the ON or ACC position or when retained accessory power (RAP) is active.

To adjust the individual panels on the panoramic roof please refer to Sunroof Window Height and Opening Fit Adjustment (C3Y) in SI.

All Aura vehicles have map lights in the overhead console area (located between the sunvisors). To manually turn on and off these lights, individually press and release the lens.

If the Aura vehicle does NOT have the panoramic sunroof (RPO C3Y) then there is a dome lamp located in the middle of the headliner (or just behind the sunroof if equipped with CF5). This lamp has an OFF/DOOR/ON switch. When this light comes on it also turns on the front map lights. If the switch is set to the DOOR position, the interior lights will gradually turn off after all the doors are closed.

If the vehicle has the panoramic sunroof, there is a light at the very rear of the headliner that will only come on when the door is opened. The front map lights can still be turned on individually; however, they do not control the rear light.

On all Aura vehicles there is also ambient lighting that highlights the center stack area and inner front door handle openings. This lighting is illuminated when the headlamps are on.

Notice: Liquid tire sealant can damage the tire pressure monitor sensors.

All Aura vehicles come standard with a tire pressure monitoring (TPM) system. This system uses air pressure sensors in each wheel to monitor changes in pressure. The sensor is part of the valve stem assembly. The sensor in the valve stem sends a radio frequency transmission to the remote control receiver (RCDLR) which transmits a display message to the DIC. When the tires are rotated, a service procedure using the RKE transmitter or special tool J 46079 is required to learn the tire position to the vehicle (LF, RF, LR, RR). Refer to Tire Pressure Sensor Learn in SI.

The Aura vehicle comes standard with six airbags:

To disable the SIR system please refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling in SI.

The Aura also has the passenger presence system (PPS), which monitors the weight of an occupant in the front passenger seat and communicates this status to the sensing and diagnostic module (SDM). The SDM then determines whether to enable or suppress the deployment of the passenger frontal airbag. The PPS consists of an electronic control module, sensor mat, heated seat element (if equipped), wiring harness, and PASSENGER AIR BAG ON/OFF indicators.

Notice: The passenger presence system (PPS) ON/OFF indicator is located above the center HVAC vent next to the hazard switch and is ONLY an indicator. Do NOT push this indicator. Pressing this indicator will not change the status of the passenger side frontal airbag. Pushing the indicator too hard may cause damage. If the indicator has been pushed into the I/P, please refer to PIT3677A in SI.

The Aura comes with an available universal garage door opener (GDO) when the "Convenience Package" is ordered (not available with the Panoramic sunroof RPO C3Y). The GDO is compatible with most, but not all, types and brands of transmitters. If a problem should occur with a compatibility conflict with a transmitter, call HomeLink™ at 1-800-355-3515. The GDO has three buttons that may be programmed for individual transmitter/receiver combinations to control up to three GDOs, security gate, and remote lighting systems. Each button represents a transmitter code section of the transmitter, which operates separately from any other button.

For programming information, please refer to Garage Door Opener Programming - Universal in SI.

The electrical architecture of the vehicle is GMLAN and requires the use of a CANDi module to communicate with the Tech 2®. There are potentially 17 different modules that can be found on the Aura. The Master Electrical Component List in SI provides a list of modules, as well as links to schematics, DTCs, repair instructions and programming/set-up information.

The Aura uses three electrical centers (fuse boxes):

For information regarding these electrical centers, please refer to Power and Signal Distribution in SI.

There are multiple storage areas in the interior of the vehicle

Important: The glove box may not open all the way by itself if there is nothing put into the glove box. It is designed to completely open with approximately 1 kg (2.2 lb) of material in it.

The first three storage areas all have "dampened" doors which open slowly. The storage bin located below the HVAC control head is opened by pushing on the lower edge of the opening. The left I/P compartment door is also opened by pushing on the door using the dimple near the top edge. The glove box is opened by pulling on the lower edge of the handle.

The center console storage area contains two storage areas (upper and lower). There are two release levers at the front of the top lid that will open both of these compartments. The lever on the passenger side opens the top lid and the lever on the driver side opens the bottom compartment.

Notice: It has been determined that the use of key lock boxes, or other devices that hang on the window, may chip the top edge of the laminated front side door glass. Do NOT install key lock boxes or other devices on laminated glass surfaces. Refer to Corporate Bulletin Number 06-08-64-001A for further information.

The Aura uses the exterior glass to contribute to the quietness of the vehicle. The front windshield and front side door glass are acoustic laminate. This glass uses a sound absorbing material, sandwiched between two pieces of glass, which reduces noise by 20% over traditional glass. The rear side door glass is not laminated; however, it is 5 mm (0.20 in) thick, which is approximately 30% thicker than most side glass.

Performing a quality pre-delivery inspection is one of the most important functions the Retailer can do for the customer. Most customers consider the condition of their new vehicle during delivery as a direct reflection of the Retailer and your service department. A quality PDI is essential to improving a customer's perception of your facility and increasing his/her satisfaction with their new vehicle.

U.S. Retailers -- The generic Pre-Delivery Inspection form is included with the glove box materials of each vehicle. Additionally, in September, a new platform-specific PDI form will become available to all facilities via GM DealerWorld. Once the platform-specific PDI becomes available, the retailers should use this for the Aura vehicle.

Canadian Retailers -- Pre-Delivery Inspection forms are available for download from the GM infoNET.

Reset Fuel Economy

Be sure to reset the "Average Fuel Economy" display to zero prior to delivery to the customer (refer to DIC features).

Tire Pressure

Vehicles are shipped from the assembly plant with higher than recommended tire pressure. The pressures are optimized for the transportation of the vehicle. Tire pressures are a key ingredient of ride quality. It is important to adjust the tire pressures to the recommended level as noted on the tire label located on driver’s door prior to delivery.

Compass Calibration

It is necessary to set the compass to the correct Zone and verify the compass is reading directions correctly. To set the zone and calibrate compass, if necessary, please refer to Compass Calibration and Magnetic Variance in SI.

Vehicle Delivery to the Customer

The "Getting to Know Your Vehicle" (GTK) guide (only available in the U.S.) should be reviewed by all Retailer personnel, and can be used as a guide during vehicle presentation to a customer. This guide is included with the glove box materials within each vehicle.

A copy of the GTK can be found on the GM training web site (http://www.gmtraining.com) by following the links for "Product Information > GTK - Getting To Know Your Vehicle Brochures > Saturn".

Additional Saturn Aura product training for U.S. retailers may be found on the GM training web site (http://www.gmtraining.com). Some of the classes that may be useful are:

Retailers in Canada should refer to the latest training availability in the GM Canada Product Service Training Course Catalogue located on GM infoNET under Service & Body Training.

As with any new vehicle, or vehicle technology, prompt detailed feedback on owner concerns and/or vehicle conditions in the field is of great value to the manufacturer. To provide Voice Mail reports (for U.S. retailers only) or an electronic Product Information Report (for Canadian retailers only) on the product, the retailer should reference the latest version of bulletin 02-00-89-002D - "Information for Dealers on How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR)."