2008 Saturn Outlook: loss of power steering

Filed Jul 6, 2020 · Steering · WA

Loss of power steering at low speed. Parking lot no power steering.

Filed Jul 6, 2020 · Steering · 147,930 miles · WA

Loss of power steering at low speed. Driving in out of driveway and in parking lots.

Filed Jan 3, 2015 · Steering · 84,500 miles · OH

I had trouble turning the steering wheel and the steering made sounds when turning. The dealer found that the steering gear was leaking and it was replaced to the tune of $1,300. I received a letter from gm in september 2014 that "...some 2008 model year saturn outlook vehicles may develop a power steering pump wear condition that can cause an intermittent drop of power steering hydraulic pressure that will cause reduced or loss of steering assist." this seems to be the issue I had but when I took it back to the same dealer to be reimbursed for the work, I was told that the issue I had was a leaking steering gear and the issue in the letter was a power steering pump. I am surprised that one doesn't affect the other given the resulting issue is the same.

Filed Jun 25, 2014 · Steering · 79,783 miles · IL

I went through a puddle of water that was on the road. About 2-3 minutes after going through the puddle my power steering went out. The engine began to loose power as the battery light went out also. *tr I waited about 2 minutes and the steering was restored. I did research and found out that other 2008 saturn outlook owners had this problem and there was a repair bulletin number 07-03-32-010. Which stated that water would get in this engine causing the above mentioned condition and that gm recognized this flaw and added an mudguard in subsequent year models. I called gm and they had no information on this service bulletin and suggested I go to a dealer for service.

Filed May 30, 2014 · Steering · 85,000 miles · CA

My 2008 saturn outlook started to lose steering at low rates or speed between 5mph to 15 MPH. It becomes almost impossible to steer the vehicle when driving at low speeds. The steering will lock up and I took it to the dealer and told me it was the steering gear and steering pump; both need replaced. I know this is a known safety issue and need to have it replaced as I have a 5 month child and am unable to afford the $2000 cost that gm quoted me. I have researched this and it seems like this is a common issue. I am afraid to drive this vehicle due to the steering issue.

Filed Aug 13, 2013 · Steering · 96,000 miles · IA

On our 08 outlook, the power steering just "gave out", whenever it felt like- be in the middle of a sharp turn, u turn, or going on/off an exit ramp. There was no warning (groaning, whining, etc. From the pump), you suddenly would lose power steering. This is extremely dangerous. I contacted the dealership- it apparently wasn't covered under the power train (????why?). I tried all of their "fixes"- flushing the fluid out with new, putting synthetic in, filling slightly above as recommended. It finally boiled down to a new power steering pump. Ridiculous!

Filed Dec 2, 2012 · Steering · 86,000 miles · CA

Loud noise emitting from hood while driving in the past, then while driving steering became very stiff making it impossible to steer my car safely. I contacted gm customer care who informed me that there is not a current recall on the steering although after researching I have found that there have been numerous complaints about the steering problems leading to unsafe driving. I beg you to investigate the numerous complaints and repair records from gm about the excessive number of complaints, accidents and injuries caused by the defective steering mechanism. Thank you!

Filed May 1, 2008 · Engine · 2,200 miles · NY

At about 2,000 miles, on 2/13/08, check engine light came on out 2--8 saturn outlook and stated ignition problem (cam sensors). Saturn indicated bad cams (dual). They replaced them and basically rebuilt the entire top of my engine. 2 weeks later, the tensioner pulling snapped off while I was driving, causing loss of steering, electrical, cooling, etc. Car towed. Saturn replaced parts and denied related to cam replacement. Now at 4,400 miles on 5/1/08 check engine light came on again. Onstar diagnostics called and stated same trouble code as 2/13/08 (cam sensors). Will call saturn regional rep. Who handled our complaint the first time tomorrow. Note: our cousin has same SUV but the gmc (acadia) who had the exact same problem with the cams one month ago but at 200 miles. Back in march, the service dept. At our dealer also said we were the 2nd or 3 saturn outlook they replaced the cams on this year (2008).