Three problems related to clutch have been reported for the 2003 Saturn VUE. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Saturn VUE based on all problems reported for the 2003 VUE.
Damage to my rear differential clutches on my awd 2003 Saturn Vue. The vent that lets air in and out of the clutch housing would allow water to enter as well. Water would then mix with the gear oil in that clutch housing case and cause the clutch pack to "whine" or "growl" on a sharp turn. There has been no recall on the 2003 Saturn Vue and Saturn re-designed the Vue in 2004.
With less than 50,000 miles on this vehicle, I have replaced the rotors and the rear wiper motor. The latest failure left me stranded and needed to be towed to the dealer. The slave cylinder for the hydraulic clutch fluid went with a total cost of 1100. 00 out of factory and extended warranty of course. Company claims this is a wear and tear issue.
New vehicle with less than 5000 miles needed replacement of rear drive clutch unit due to grinding noise during turns. Replacement done under warranty. Noise still there but not as pronounced. Will wait to see if it becomes a problem.