Six problems related to lose power steering have been reported for the 2008 Saturn VUE. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2008 Saturn VUE based on all problems reported for the 2008 VUE.
While driving on the freeway the car would beep 3 time while lights flash on the dash. I would lose power steering and the engine would shut off. . . . Usually would start back up if I waited long enough. This has happened to me quite a few times. I have been also on a street going 35 miles an hour and same thing would happen. The last time I tried to drive it I put my keys in and cant get them out. .
Lost all power steering was sitting for about 4 hrs. Started to move and no power steering checked fuse it is ok.
2008 Saturn Vue loses power steering assist when engine below 1000 rpm. Power steering fluid level is ok. There is also a whining noise that becomes louder when wheel is turned in any direction. Noise is somewhat dependent on rpm, as well.
During slushy or rainy conditions, car loses power steering momentarily. Issue occurs sporadically under these conditions. Gm dealership could not find any mechanical issues with the power steering pump or steering mechanism. Same dealership advised that the power steering pump on this model is located in such a way that during wet driving conditions the drive belt to the pump can get wet and slip, causing a momentary loss of power steering.
While driving, the steering wheel suddenly lost its power steering assist making it difficult to turn and/or unable to turn at all. The wheel would then lock itself with each 30 degree turn. At times, the wheel completely locked up only being able to turn in 15 degrees in either direction. This has been intermittently occuring since Friday, may 18, 2012. The service dealerships state they cannot fix the issue unless they can duplicate the issue upon appointment.
Currently my 2008 Saturn Vue is having issues with the power steering repeatidly going out in the vehicle. I will lose power steering for up to 10-30 seconds, primarily at low speeds. It is occuring about 5-8 times per week. The vehicle has been taken to a dealership for repair 5 times. The steering gear has been replaced, the hydraulic power steering has been replaced and including the rack and pinion and the power steering pump has been replaced. The vehicle still continues to lose power steering.