One problem related to steering pinion shaft has 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.
Whirring/whoosing and slight groaning/vibration coming from steering wheel when turning from a stopped position and at low speed. Power steering fluid was low and filled at that time. Symptoms continued. Vehicle was diagnosed and repaired by gm service. The steering shaft boot was greased and the technicians replaced the steering gear assembly rack and pinion. Additionally, the steering pump was flushed and filled and a front end alignment was performed. Although we were out of warranty, the original estimate was half and the parts were noted as "good will parts only/warranty". We appreciated this gesture from gm; we absorbed the labor costs. Since the repair we have begun to notice a slight groaning/vibration again when turning at start-up. This seems to disappear while driving. Note: having done some research, our issue seem to be a problem with some 2008 Vue vehicles.