2008 Saturn Astra Review

First ever No Sleep Imports review of the non legendary Saturn / Opel / Vauxhall Astra

[@FreddieOrtega-cr33p3rofficial]

The only legal way to get an Opel in the US.

[@Stuartboom89]

I live in UK, the previous owner has definitely abused it. If it shows 'inspect' on the dashboard, usually indicates a blown bulb. that starter button isn't factory, fun little features is if you tap the indicator rather than full click, the indicators will flash 3 times. Also when you stop, take the key out, flash the lights then exit, the lights will remain on for about 60 seconds. It's called 'follow me home' lastly the rain sensor should be the other side of the rear view mirror.

[@gsaturn8614]

I have an 08 XR 5 door 5 Speed. Daily driver. Good build quality, great handling and brakes. Needs a bit more power, and a 6 speed. Wonderful, sporty city car. Not so great on the highway. The 3 door would be the better choice, if you can find one.

[@GAWTHLEX]

i agree 100% you said exactly hiw i feel about mine, i got a 5 door with a manual, its perfect. just needs a turbo and a 6 speed manual

[@garydfox]

I have A 2008 SATURN ASTRA AUTO. 34000 MILES. I am having an issue with the alternator charging. Possibly it is bad. Noticed very weak power. I am going to change the crankshaft position sensor when I work on the alternator issue. I replaced the falling headliner. I find it a fun car. Leather seats, heated. I bought it for $1300.00. I fixed the radio and ac myself. I like the car very much. VERY UNIQUE AND APARENTLY RARE.

[@dosgos]

Before changing the alternator. Do a voltage drop and check for corroded grounds. Especially at the ground from the starter to battery.

[@musicmoviesandgames2004]

That starter button is not original. That’s aftermarket. Also those pictures on the key buttons are supposed to symbolize an open door and a closed door. Yes, this does have rain-sensing wipers. Very ahead of its time back in 2008!

[@loiceness_]

i owned one, got scammed with big repairs, sold it off pretty quick. overall average econobox that i got unlucky with, but i liked the rain sensing wipers!

[@dosgos]

On auto transmission cars, radiators were recalled for combining transmission fluid and coolant. We added a separate transmission cooler to avoid this from happening (a second time)

[@ΔοσόπουλοςΒασίλειος]

Ecotec Z18XER ?

[@dosgos]

yes

[@kunalamratlal4566]

I have the performance version. Opel Astra OPC 241bhp

[@stevenfairless4931]

interference engine with a belt ... make sure you change the belt at correct interval. I bought an 08 standard in TX and drove it to CT ... it is not a highway car. While it lasted it was an excellent town car. 160k and the timing belt let go.

[@dosgos]

At 10 years or 100k miles, that timing belt was on borrowed time. Plus the tensioner and idler pulley.

[@GordCunningham]

I have a 08 XE 5 door. How do I replace the exhaust manifold gasket

[@tonyurmate]

As with most Astras the check engine light is on. A very common problem. But you can either love them or hate them. Their cheap to insure , tax and run. I just bought one after borrowing my neighbours Astra. Mine is a 2007 and I just spent a little bit of money on rear suspension but it does handle very well on twists and turns. It's actually quirky and it took a while but it grew on me and I love driving it.