2008 Saturn Vue
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Saturn › Vue › 2008
These records cover every 2008 Saturn Vue. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
3 recalls name the 2008 Saturn Vue. Newest first.
Gm IS recalling 44,451 my 2008 saturn vue vehicles with body color outside door handles. the outside door handles may stick or bind. If this were to occur, the door may not latch when closed.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Driving with an unlatched door could result in an unbelted occupant falling out of the vehicle, causing increased risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the outside door handles with chrome door handles free of charge. the recall IS expected to begin on or before august 18, 2009. owner may contact saturn at 1-800-972-8876 or at www.gmownercenter.com.
Gm IS recalling 42,408 my 2008-2009 saturn vue vehicles. some of these vehicles have a condition in which the nut securing the power steering line to the power steering pump may loosen. if this were to occur, there may be a power steering fluid leak.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The fluid could contact hot exhaust components resulting in a possible engine compartment fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the nut securing the power steering line to the power steering pump. if there are no signs of a fluid leak, dealers will tighten the nut. if a fluid leak IS present, dealer will tighten the nut and check the fluid level. the recall began on september 26, 2008. owners may contact saturn at 1-800-972-8876 or through their website at <a href=http://www.gmownercenter.com>http://www.gmownercenter.com</a> .
Gm IS recalling 26 my 2008 saturn vue vehicles equipped with a 6T70 6-speed automatic transmission. some of these vehicles have a condition in which the transmission case side bore that holds the park pawl pivot pin may have a casting porosity. this condition, coupled with normal operating stresses, could lead to failure, eliminating the ability to secure…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If this happens while the vehicle IS parked on a non-level surface, the vehicle could roll without warning and cause injury to people in its path.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the transmission free of charge. the recall began on may 5, 2008. owners may contact saturn at 1-800-972-8876, or through their website at <a href=http://www.gmownercenter.com>http://www.gmownercenter.com</a> .
Owner complaints
406 complaints16 involved a crash11 involved a fire14 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system · Engine · Steering
I noticed a few days ago that the wheel was getting harder to turn so I made a maintenance appointment for Saturday I was driving to work in Texas in Fort Worth coming from Arlington today and smoke started coming from under the hood I pulled over and it was smoking I was on the highway so to get…
I noticed a few days ago that the wheel was getting harder to turn so I made a maintenance appointment for Saturday I was driving to work in Texas in Fort Worth coming from Arlington today and smoke started coming from under the hood I pulled over and it was smoking I was on the highway so to get off the highway in a safe area I had to drive about 5 more miles up the road to the next exit so I started driving it didn’t smoke right off so a couple of minutes into the drive it starts smoking so I finally get to the exit smoke is now coming through the vents , I hurry and pull over and go to open the door it wouldn’t open I then I climb over and get out the back door I go into the business parking lot at this point it’s engulfed in black smoke and then it starts burning.
- Engine
the transmission will not shift out of first gear
- Steering
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact heard an abnormal grinding sound coming from under the dashboard on the passenger’s side. The contact stated that the abnormal grinding sound was also…
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact heard an abnormal grinding sound coming from under the dashboard on the passenger’s side. The contact stated that the abnormal grinding sound was also heard while the gear shifter was in park(P). There was no warning light illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and noticed that there was power steering fluid leaking from the vehicle. The contact added power steering fluid to the vehicle; however, the power steering fluid was leaking while driving. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring increasingly. The contact stated that the power steering fluid leaked out entirely after driving for a short distance. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the power steering fluid was leaking. The contact stated that a clamp was added and the vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Power train · Structure › Body
Excessive frame rust at 107,000 miles. Major holes and chunks of supporting materials are missing. This is near the rear subframe on both sides of the vahicle. Makes it dangerous to drive and should be recalled by GM
- Steering
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated while driving from a complete stop, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V470000…
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated while driving from a complete stop, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V470000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 173,445.
- Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other
Alternator I changed the starter I changed the alternator brand new it ran but then it stopped in mid drive and I won't just start and that's how I crashed into something now my car is wreck in the fridge and it won't start and if it does it stops
- Electrical system · Power train · Steering
2008 Saturn vue AWD. Steering wheel is very difficult to turn while driving. There is a lot of resistance. No leaking fluid visible and no visible loss of fluid levels. Transmission was torn down/repaired in 2017 for metal bits present at 95,000 (approximate) miles. It is currently at 107,600…
2008 Saturn vue AWD. Steering wheel is very difficult to turn while driving. There is a lot of resistance. No leaking fluid visible and no visible loss of fluid levels. Transmission was torn down/repaired in 2017 for metal bits present at 95,000 (approximate) miles. It is currently at 107,600 miles. Transmission gets stuck in lower gear and rpms Rev up without the vehicle gaining acceleration. The tear down/rebuild was due to bad 3 5 wave plate also and seems to be replicating the issue again. Check engine light comes on amd goes off intermittently and cannot get issue to replicate at the mechanics. Key has also gotten stuck in the barrel. Took almost 2 hours to try numerous ways to get it to release-also had to unlock manually on the door handle, none of the lights inside worked and when it was able to get started it was very slow and deliberate. Battery appeared to be dead but after jump starting and taking to have it checked, battery was found to be fine. These are serious concerns regarding the vehicle as 1 or all could cause serious damage to the driver and others on the road. It happened again today with the high rpms and low gear/not shifting to next gear.
- Power train · Unknown or other
When you drive the car the transmission fails. less than 48 hours ago I just bought this 2008 Saturn vue certified pre owned and I’ve been reading a lot of review’s about the specific model of car and a lot of other people that have had this car has had the same common experience I will attach a…
When you drive the car the transmission fails. less than 48 hours ago I just bought this 2008 Saturn vue certified pre owned and I’ve been reading a lot of review’s about the specific model of car and a lot of other people that have had this car has had the same common experience I will attach a screenshot of what I’m talking about down below I seriously think someone should look into this issue because not only do I think this vehicle isn’t mechanically safe to be sold and driven on the road but the majority of the community that has owned one of these cars would agree to what I have to say
- Seat belts
Vehicle seatbelt is fraying on driver side. Tried to cut off the fray, but realized it continues fraying everytime I use the belt. Have called multiple gm dealers as well as the 800 number for GM. From their info and checking websites, the parts for the seatbelts for this model vehicle have been…
Vehicle seatbelt is fraying on driver side. Tried to cut off the fray, but realized it continues fraying everytime I use the belt. Have called multiple gm dealers as well as the 800 number for GM. From their info and checking websites, the parts for the seatbelts for this model vehicle have been discontinued. this includes the 2008-10 saturn vue and the 2010-2015 chevy captiva (which is the same car). I am shocked that I have to purchase replacement seatbelts from a junkyard or other used method. Seatbelts are something that I should have ability to replace new. Once GM dealer seemed concern and related that they thought that GM had to replace new ones. Another autoshop stated that this was a recall-type problem on some GM vehicles - but mine does not show this sort of thing. First noticed around 9/11/2023. Bought vehicle on 9/9/2023. Thought it was dog or cat hair until I educated myself online and realized the belt is slowly disintegrating.
- Power train
When driving transmission power train having difficult time changing gears
- Steering
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that there was oil leaking underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V470000 (Steering) and referred the…
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that there was oil leaking underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V470000 (Steering) and referred the contact to the manufacturer. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle was not under recall and that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V470000 (Steering). The failure mileage was 83,000.
- Power train
I have had the vehicle for 1 week and it has been running good. I parked it yesterday when I went to go to work today the vehicle would not shift gears while going down the road. It has really high RPM’s and will not shift out of first gear.
- Steering · Steering › Hydraulic power assist › Power steering fluid
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and noticed that there was no power steering fluid. The contact added power steering fluid…
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and noticed that there was no power steering fluid. The contact added power steering fluid to the vehicle; however, the power steering fluid was leaking while driving. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring increasingly. The contact stated that the power steering fluid would leak entirely after an hour drive. Additionally, the contact stated that the leak was more significant while the vehicle was parked. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V470000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
- Unknown or other
Frame rusted out beyond repair and vehicle only has 131081 miles on it car is pretty well taken care of oil changed regularly and tires rotated new brakes all the way around. This should be a safety recall from gm even though it may be 14 years old the way this car was taken care of should be taken into consideration
- Unknown or other
Passenger door handle fell off. Also frame is rusting out
- Engine
Sweet smell coming from vents, suspect there is a coolant leak in the heater core, only 98000 miles and the heater core is failing.
- Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer › Linkages
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that the passenger's side windshield wiper was inoperable. Upon investigation, the contact self-diagnosed the vehicle with windshield wiper linkage failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The…
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that the passenger's side windshield wiper was inoperable. Upon investigation, the contact self-diagnosed the vehicle with windshield wiper linkage failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that the last 8-digits of the VIN were recognized as another make and model vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.
- Power train
Just backed out of my driveway and drove 2 blocks down my street. Stopped at the stop sign and the car wouldn't move. It was still running, however it wouldn't move. The car coming up behind me didn't notice my flashers and had to slam on his brakes which caused him to be rear ended. Everyone was…
Just backed out of my driveway and drove 2 blocks down my street. Stopped at the stop sign and the car wouldn't move. It was still running, however it wouldn't move. The car coming up behind me didn't notice my flashers and had to slam on his brakes which caused him to be rear ended. Everyone was ok. Car was pushed back to my driveway and there it sits. Tried to start it and it still won't go anywhere. The check engine light is on, but it was not on before it stopped, or while being pushed back. I can't afford to have it towed anywhere right now to be checked out. The used dealership I bought the car from gave me an obd scanner. Transmission codes P0700 and P2723 came up.
- Steering
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel was difficult to maneuver. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000.
- Steering
While driving on the freeway, something weird happened with the steering wheel & my daughter lost control of her vehicle. She crashed into the brick wall on the freeway & totaled her vehicle. She was hospitalized & had to have surgery to repair a broken jaw (in two places), fractured bone under her left eye, & other various fractures in her face. Her teeth were also knocked out of alignment on the bottom.
- Steering
The contact's cousin owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that while his cousin was driving 65 MPH, the power steering locked which caused the vehicle to veer off to the left side off the highway across three lanes of traffic. The contact's cousin was able to stop the vehicle on the shoulder…
The contact's cousin owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that while his cousin was driving 65 MPH, the power steering locked which caused the vehicle to veer off to the left side off the highway across three lanes of traffic. The contact's cousin was able to stop the vehicle on the shoulder of the highway. The contact stated that he was uncertain if any warning lights had illuminated prior to or during the failure. After some time, his cousin was able to restart the vehicle and the power steering returned with normal operation. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that there was no recall on the vehicle. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Suspension · Tires › Pressure monitoring and regulating systems
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle pulled left and was uncontrollable. The contact stated that the TPMS warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 122,896.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that the transmission felt like it was slipping while driving at various speeds. The transmission failed to shift gears or lock into the desired gear. The contact had not taken the vehicle to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 22,000.
- Engine · Power train · Vehicle speed control
My 2008 Saturn vue Engine size 3600cc, 6 cylinders has been feeling like the transmission is slipping when you get up to a certain speed and this could be very harmful to other drivers that are driving.. Sometimes the car won't go into park or reverse and I feel that since there are 3 RECALLS ON MY…
My 2008 Saturn vue Engine size 3600cc, 6 cylinders has been feeling like the transmission is slipping when you get up to a certain speed and this could be very harmful to other drivers that are driving.. Sometimes the car won't go into park or reverse and I feel that since there are 3 RECALLS ON MY VEHICLE AND I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED THAT THE GM PLACE SHOULD HAVE TO FIX THIS Because someone could get hurt really badly if the transmission locks up while going down the road.
- Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other
October 22 2020 my husband and I had purchased a 2008 saturn vue (lic plate # 6ezz507)from a private party. On march 25 2021 the car suddenly engulfed in flames then exploded. My husband managed to exit the vehicle in just seconds before the car exploded. We've come to find out afterwards that this particular year,make,model had been recalled. IS there anything could possibly be done?
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Outside door handles stick unlatched
By letter dated june 23, 2009, general motors notified the agency that it will conduct a safety recall (nhtsa recall number 09v233) to replace the outside door handles on certain model year 2008 saturn vue vehicles. The exterior door handle on certain model year 2008 saturn vue vehicles can stick in the unlatched…
By letter dated june 23, 2009, general motors notified the agency that it will conduct a safety recall (nhtsa recall number 09v233) to replace the outside door handles on certain model year 2008 saturn vue vehicles. The exterior door handle on certain model year 2008 saturn vue vehicles can stick in the unlatched position.the door may open while the vehicle IS in motion. The agency opened its investigation based on two complaints of door latch failure that caused the door to open while the vehicle was in motion.the agency also received early warning (ewr) reports on this issue.certain model year 2008 saturn vue vehicles have painted body-color outside door handles that may stick or bind.if this were to occur, the door may not latch when closed.driving with an unlatched door could result in an occupant falling partly or fully out of the vehicle, causing increased risk of injury.based on the above safety recall, this investigation IS closed.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11011782This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads. The J-35616-64B is the latest test probe released for checking tension or probing the .64 series terminals. The test probe terminal has been released in the terminal repair kit (J-38125-620H) located in Lear Tray 7 part number 963716-2. There are 5 terminated leads in a package part number is 13505346, which can be ordered through your normal General Motors Customer Care and Aftersales parts channel.
- 11009531This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11009088This 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.
- 11008956This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
- 11007936This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007935This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 11007196This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes B3055, B3060, and/or B3935. Technician should not replace any parts for this concern. If unable to duplicate the concern ask if the customer uses any Radio Frequency Identification Devices when the concern is present. Dealer should also direct their customers to the appropriate section in the Owner manuals that references that the device complies.
- 11007116This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
- 11007095This bulletin provides information on the TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Licensed Brands and the TOP TIER Diesel Fuel Licensed Brands that are recommended for use in all GM vehicles and the TOP TIER FUELS website URL.
- 11007091This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
- 11006682This service bulletin provides information on a guide to help reduce repeat visits for the same customer concern.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11004727This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 11001325This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information to cover GMs policy on performing GM covered vehicle services and maintenance on vehicles originating/sold in Canada.
- 11001321This bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of water or ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 11000162The intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them.
- 11000160This service bulletin provides information on proper use of floor mats.
- 11000158This service bulletin includes information on Interior Cleaning - Instrument Panel (IP), Hard or Plastic Surfaces, Seats, Carpet, Leather, Vinyl, Fabric Cleaner, Stain Remover, Restorer - Product Availability.
- 11000119This service bulletin provides technicians with information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.
- 10253770This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Tire Radial Force Variation (RFV).
- 10253632Rear and Side Tempered Glass Spots.
- 10253630Malfunction Indicator Lamp.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10251888This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10250013High Voltage Safety ? High Voltage Disabling
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249535This preliminary information (PI) provides information om Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes (E4398, E4399, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491 or E6961).
- 10249295This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads. The J-35616-64B is the latest test probe released for checking tension or probing the .64 series terminals. The test probe terminal has been released in the terminal repair kit (J-38125-620H) located in Lear Tray 7 part number 963716-2. There are 5 terminated leads in a package part number is 13505346, which can be ordered through your normal General Motors Customer Care and Aftersales parts channel.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
Every Saturn Vue model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.