Summary
The Saturn Vue has 9 recalls across its 2002-2009 production run, with the most serious being a 2009 model year steering defect where an incorrect front steering knuckle can allow the tie rod to separate from the wheel assembly, causing sudden loss of steering control. A separate 2008 model year steering concern involves a power steering fluid line fitting that can loosen, leak fluid onto hot exhaust components, and start an engine compartment fire. The 2008 model also has an outside door handle that can stick or bind, preventing the door from latching fully and raising the risk of an occupant falling out while driving.
On the 2007 model, the wiring connections between the airbag control module and the roof-mounted side curtain airbags and seatbelt pretensioners are reversed on certain vehicles, meaning the pretensioners will not tighten the belts in a frontal crash. Going back to 2002-2004 production, the ignition switch can allow the key to be pulled out before the ignition is turned fully off. On an automatic transmission vehicle, this means the transmission may not be in park, and on a manual transmission vehicle the steering lock may not engage, both of which can allow the vehicle to roll away unattended. The 2002 model year also has a daytime running lamp resistor that can crack, corrode when exposed to moisture and road salt, and go dark, making the vehicle harder for other drivers and pedestrians to see. Two compliance-related recalls round out the history: a missing required label statement on front seatbelt assemblies in 2002 models, and an incorrect wheel rim designation on the tire and certification label on certain 2004 models equipped with 17-inch wheels.
