Vehicles / Saturn / Aura / 2008

2008 Saturn Aura

432 federal complaints (677 component records) · 4 recall campaigns on file · 1 federal investigation · 919 service bulletins · 5 Canadian recalls
See all 6 model years of the Saturn Aura →
Engine
2.4L 4-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
22 city / 30 hwy
Federal complaints
432
Recall campaigns
4
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Power train
129
Steering
113
Electrical system
92
Brakes
62
Stability control
47
Lighting
46
Other
28
Air bags
26
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Power train

129 complaint records7 crash reports
"I EXPERIENCED THE RECENTLY ANNOUNCED ROLLAWAY PROBLEM, BUT MY DEALER SAYS MY VEHICLE VIN IS NOT ON THE RECALL LIST. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →

Steering

113 complaint records6 crash reports
"CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR CIRCUIT MALFUNCTION, OR FALSE CODE. POWER STEERING STOPS WORKING IN TRANSIT. CAR HAS TO BE SHUT OFF AND RESTARTED TO REGAIN USE...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse steering parts in the directory →

Electrical system

92 complaint records1 fire report
"3RD BRAKE LIGHT IN FEAR WINDOW OUT INTERMITTENTLY AND IS KNOWN ISSUE ON AURAS. ALSO HEADLIGHT ELECTRICAL ISSUES AND THAT IS ALSO INTERMITTENT...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse electrical system parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
EA11015
opened Nov 2011
closed Jun 2014Power TrainTransmission Shift Cable Failure - led to recall 14V224000
On April 29, 2014, GM submitted a Part 573 defect information report initiating Safety Recall 14V-224 to remedy the subject vehicles equipped with four speed automatic transmissions manufactured before October 31, 2007.On May 22, 2014 GM expanded 14V-224 to...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
14V252000Vehicle Speed ControlGeneral Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured May 16, 2003, through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured June 25, 2003, through April...Normally free
14V224000Power TrainGeneral Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on April 29, 2014, that they are recalling 56,214 model year 2007 and 2008 Saturn Aura vehicles.Normally free
14V153000SteeringGeneral Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009...Normally free
12V460000Power TrainGeneral Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Saturn Aura and model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6 vehicles, equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2014173
2014-05-16
Electrical194,314On certain vehicles, intermittent electrical connection faults may cause the brake lamps to illuminate without the brake pedal being depressed, or not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed.
2014160
2014-05-01
Powertrain109,110On certain vehicles equipped with 4 speed automatic transmissions, the shift cable could fracture without warning.
2014104
2014-04-01
Steering157,423Certain vehicles equipped with electric power steering may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist that could occur at any time while driving.
2012331
2012-10-01
Steering67,414Certain vehicles equipped with electric power steering may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist that could occur at any time while driving.
2012307
2012-09-18
Powertrain40,045On certain vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions, shift cable locking tabs could fracture without warning.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
13598
Sep 2025
Unknown Or OtherNew Vehicle Monitoring Programs Section in IVH
PIC5650M
Aug 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on.
PIP5601C
Jul 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.
PIT5074R
May 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B and Mini 50 terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.
PIP5358D
Feb 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
PIT5074Q
Dec 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.
PIP4723J
Oct 2024
Electrical SystemThis Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving...
04-06-04-051J
Sep 2024
EngineThis service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
08-07-30-026I
Sep 2024
Power TrainThis service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise.
02-00-89-002X
Sep 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
PIC5650L
Sep 2024
Electrical SystemThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes B3055, B3060, and/or B3935.
PIT3271P
Sep 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles.
General Communication
Aug 2024
SERVICE CAMPAIGNElectrical SystemVehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions).
05-03-08-002J
Aug 2024
SuspensionThis service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
01-00-89-010S
Aug 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis service bulletin provides information on a guide to help reduce repeat visits for the same customer concern.
05-06-04-022V
Aug 2024
Fuel/Propulsion SystemThis bulletin provides information on the TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Licensed Brands and the TOP TIER Diesel Fuel Licensed Brands that are recommended for use in all GM vehicles and the TOP TIER FUELS website URL.
09-06-04-026Y
Aug 2024
Electrical SystemThis bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
01-06-01-011P
Aug 2024
EngineThis service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
04-06-04-051I
Jun 2024
Fuel/Propulsion SystemThis service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
16-NA-383
Jun 2024
EngineThis service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
18-NA-099
Jun 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
24-NA-098
Jun 2024
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
08-07-30-035H
May 2024
Power TrainThis bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of water or ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
16-NA-119
May 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis warranty administration bulletin provides policy information to cover GMs policy on performing GM covered vehicle services and maintenance on vehicles originating/sold in Canada.
09-00-89-008G
May 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
06-00-89-029V
May 2024
SeatsThis service bulletin includes information on Interior Cleaning - Instrument Panel (IP), Hard or Plastic Surfaces, Seats, Carpet, Leather, Vinyl, Fabric Cleaner, Stain Remover, Restorer - Product Availability.
10-08-110-001K
Apr 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis service bulletin provides information on proper use of floor mats.
13-08-116-001J
Apr 2024
Electrical SystemThe intent of this service bulletin is to identify aftermarket ALDL or DLC interface devices as potential sources for causing multiple customer concerns that do not have other diagnostic methods to identify them.
15-00-89-004G
Apr 2024
EngineThis service bulletin provides technicians with information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.
00-03-10-006P
Apr 2024
WheelsThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Tire Radial Force Variation (RFV).
10-08-45-001H
Mar 2024
Electrical SystemThis bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
16-NA-383
Mar 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
07-00-89-037S
Mar 2024
EquipmentThis warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
22-NA-074
Feb 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
02-08-42-001J
Jan 2024
Exterior LightingThis informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
PI1394B
Jan 2024
Power TrainThis PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
PIP5601B
Jan 2024
EquipmentThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair.
PI0592I
Jan 2024
Electrical SystemThis preliminary information (PI) provides information om Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes (E4398, E4399, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491 or E6961).
PIT5074P
Dec 2023
EquipmentThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads.
PIC6533
Nov 2023
Back Over PreventionThis Preliminary Information addresses issues dealership technicians may encounter when programming modules in Saturn vehicles, resulting from a configuration change in the programming website.
19-NA-256
Nov 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides diagnostic aid information/procedures to perform inspections to determine if the engine needs to be replaced as opposed to just internal parts for knocking, rattle, squeak and/or squeal type noises from engine.
03-00-91-001I
Nov 2023
SteeringThis service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.
01-06-01-011O
Oct 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
17-NA-170
Oct 2023
WheelsThis service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
02-00-89-002W
Sep 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
10-00-89-006J
Sep 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
PIT5099G
Sep 2023
VisibilityThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air.
07-08-49-020R
Sep 2023
Electrical SystemThis informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
PIP4112T
Sep 2023
Power TrainThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician of a complaint of a sag or hesitation when accelerating.
18-NA-073
Aug 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
PIP5628G
Aug 2023
EngineThis Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
15-00-89-004F
Aug 2023
SteeringThis service bulletin provides technicians with updated information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.
01-00-89-010R
Aug 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information on a guide to help reduce repeat visits for the same customer concern.
04-06-04-051H
Aug 2023
Fuel SystemThis service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
09-06-04-026X
Jul 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
PIP5358C
Jul 2023
EquipmentThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering.
99-09-40-005I
Jul 2023
Seat BeltsThis service bulletin provides information on availability for a seat belt extender.
01-06-01-011N
Jun 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
02-00-89-002V
Jun 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. Dealers Only).
08-07-30-026H
May 2023
Power TrainThis service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise.

Showing 60 of 919 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  2. Drive one straight highway stretch and one slow parking lot.Wander or a shimmy over bumps at speed, and heavy or dropped assist at low speed, are the two faces of this vehicle's steering cluster. A clunk on turn-in points at the linkage.
  3. Sit in it with the engine off and test everything that has a switch.Windows, locks, lights, the cluster, the radio. Electrical faults are this vehicle's story and the hardest to see on a drive: an intermittent no-start waits for the second week of ownership. Ask for the battery's age and whether any control module has been replaced.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 4 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Saturn Aura →