2009 Saturn Vue recalls and problems

The 2009 Saturn Vue has 2 safety recalls and 118 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Saturn dealer.

Recalls
2
Complaints
118
Crashes / fires
8 / 3
Injuries / deaths
7 / 1

Recalls may cover only some 2009 Saturn Vue vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2009 Saturn Vue recalls

Recall 08V-616: Steering

Reported Nov 24, 2008 · 2,149 vehicles affected · GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Problem: Gm is recalling 2,149 my 2009 saturn vue vehicles. Some of these vehicles may have been built with an incorrect right and/or left front steering knuckle. As a result of the incorrect knuckle and resulting inadequate clearance, the tie rod ball stud could pull out of, or fracture, the tie rod housing. This could cause the tie rod to separate from the knuckle.

Risk: Although steering control of the vehicle could be maintained after a tie rod separation by the unaffected wheel on smooth roads or during light braking, with more significant suspension or braking inputs, the affected wheel could turn out and skid. If a vehicle built with two incorrect steering knuckles had both tie rods separate at the same time, steering control of the vehicle would be lost, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the steering knuckles and, if necessary, replace the steering knuckle(S) and tie rod(S). The recall began on december 8, 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> .

Recall 08V-470: Steering

Reported Sep 17, 2008 · 42,408 vehicles affected · GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Problem: 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: The fluid could contact hot exhaust components resulting in a possible engine compartment fire.

Fix: 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> .

2009 Saturn Vue problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Steering40
Electrical System36
Power Train14
Air Bags10
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)9
Service Brakes9
Structure8
Engine7
Unknown or Other7
Exterior Lighting5
Vehicle Speed Control5
Engine and Engine Cooling3

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body — 4
  • Electrical System › Ignition — 3
  • Tires › Pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems — 2
  • Structure › Body › Door — 1
  • Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner — 1
  • Visibility › Defroster/Defogger/Hvac System › Heater Core — 1
  • Steering › Electric Power Assist System — 1
  • Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Hose, Piping, and Connections — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 80,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2009 Saturn Vue complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Steering · at 113,000 miles · reported Oct 7, 2025
The contact owns a 2009 Saturn Vue. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became inoperable. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn and was inoperable while attempting to reverse. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 113,000.
Engine · reported Oct 8, 2024
Stalls stops, with Engine power reduced, stabilitrak off. After turning or braking. Engine light with down arrow. Accident probability. DANGEROUS ESPECIALLY IF ON HIGHWAY OR COUNTRY RD!
Steering · reported Sep 20, 2024
Vehicle has lost power steering. Difficult to steer especially in reverse and sometimes in turning left. If wheels are not completely straight, you have turn with all the strength you can muster. Reluctant to turn left unless you have twice as much time as you should need to avoid an accident.
Power Train · reported Jun 5, 2023
I have only 68,329 miles. My transmission lost reverse. When first driving it will only go up to 10 mph and over time the maximum speed is 30 to 40 mph. Even if it gets to this speed it hesitates. The car is a danger and not drive able. I took the car to a GM dealer requesting a Policy Evaluation according to the Service Bulletin Warranty. The evaluation showed GM will not help me with any repairs or replacement of transmission. A car should not have a major component fail like a transmission especially with such low mileage. It is expected to have maintenance and repairs on a vehicle. What is…
Unknown or Other · reported Oct 8, 2022
For the third time since purchasing my car in 2009 I am having problems removing the key from the ignition cylinder. On 11/16/17 the floor shifter was replaced. On 09/11/20 another one was replaced. On 10/07/22 having problems again removing the key. Will take car in for service again.

Other Saturn Vue years

Compare all Saturn Vue years · All Saturn models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2009 Saturn Vue have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2009 Saturn Vue: 08V-616 (steering), 08V-470 (steering). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2009 Saturn Vue?

Owners report steering problems most often (40 reports), followed by electrical system (36). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 80,000 miles.

Are Saturn recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Saturn dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.