Owners have filed 926 complaints
about the 2008 Saturn Outlook with NHTSA between 2007 and 2024.
The largest single group is the lights.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 4 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 96
Against the median year of the Saturn Outlook. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 23
4.5% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 20
12% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Body
2532.5%
Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
1823.4%
Headlights
1316.9%
Automatic Transmission
79.1%
Frontal
56.5%
Wiring
45.2%
Engine
33.9%
Hatchback/Liftgate
22.6%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
91.1%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
151.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
243.1%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
22829.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
21227.1%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
14218.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
11214.3%
150,000+ miles
415.2%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Dec 2007peak 25Oct 2024
NHTSA investigations into the 2008 Saturn Outlook
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
DP12003Opened 4 Jun 2012Closed 24 Jul 2014EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Loss of Headlamp Illumination
As of July 16, 2014, out of a population of 248,453 subject vehicles, NHTSA received 473 consumer complaints of inoperative head lamp. Many of these complaints indicated that the head lamp harness suffered damage from overheating. After reviewing the complaints, ODI found: -69% (328) alleged that a single head lamp was inoperative. -18% (86) alleged that both head lamps were inoperative but not at the same time. -9% (41) alleged that both head lamps were inoperative but the complaints did not indicate whether the failures had occurred at the same time. -4% (17) alleged that both head lamps wer...
EA08010Opened 12 Jun 2008Closed 8 Sep 2008ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
NON-CRASH ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES
IN A LETTER DATED AUGUST 27, 2008, GENERAL MOTORS CORP. (GM) NOTIFIED NHTSA THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL (NHTSA RECALL NUMBER 08V-441) TO ADDRESS A SAFETY RELATEDDEFECT THAT CAN RESULT IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE IN APPROXIMATELY 850,000 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HEATED WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID OPTION.THE SUBJECT VEHICLES OF THIS INVESTIGATION COMPRISE OVER THREE-QUARTERS OF THE RECALL POPULATION. ACCORDING TO GM, A SHORT CIRCUIT ON THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID HEATER MODULE MAY OVERHEAT THE CONTROL-CIRCUIT GROUND WIRE. THIS MAY CAUSE OTHER ELECTRICAL FEATURES...
Recalls on the 2008 Saturn Outlook
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
15V415000
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured January 3, 2007, to February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles manufactured July 6, 2008, to March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia vehicles manufactured September 15, 2006, to February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles manufactured August 17, 2006, to March 18, 2010. The affected vehicles, equipped with the power liftgate option, have gas struts that hold the power liftgate up when open. These struts may prematurely wear and the open liftgate may suddenly fall.
Risk: If the open liftgate unexpectedly falls, it may strike a person, increasing their risk of injury.
14V118000
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia and 2009-2013 Chevrolet Traverse and 2008-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles. In the affected vehicles, increased resistance in the driver and passenger seat mounted side impact air bag (SIAB) wiring harnesses may result in the SIAB and seat belt pretensioners not deploying in the event of a crash.
Risk: Failure of the side impact air bags and seat belt pretensioners to deploy in a crash increase the risk of injury to the driver and front seat occupant.
10V240000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 BUICK, LUCERNE; CADILLAC DTS; HUMMER H2; MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 BUICK ENCLAVE; CADILLAC CTS; MODEL YEAR 2007-2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE; GMC ACADIA, SIERRA, YUKON, YUKON XL; SATURN OUTLOOK; AND MODEL YEAR 2009 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HEATED WASHER FLUID SYSTEM (HWFS). A RECALL WAS IMPLEMENTED IN 2008 TO ADD A FUSE TO THE CONTROL CIRCUIT HARNESS TO ADDRESS THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF A PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD (PCB) ELECTRICAL SHORT. HOWEVER, THERE HAVE BEEN NEW REPORTS OF THERMAL INCIDENTS ON HWFS MODULES AFTER THIS IMPROVEMENT WAS INSTALLED. THESE INCIDENTS RESULTED FROM A NEW FAILURE MODE ATTRIBUTED TO THE DEVICE'S THERMAL PROTECTION FEATURE. THE SIGNIFICANCE VARIES FROM MINOR DISTORTION TO CONSIDERABLE MELTING OF THE PLASTIC AROUND THE HWFS FLUID CHAMBER.
Risk: IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE HEATED WASHER MODULE TO IGNITE AND A FIRE MAY OCCUR.
08V441000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
GM IS RECALLING 857,735 MY 2006-2008 BUICK LUCERNE; CADILLAC DTS; HUMMER H2; MY 2007-2008 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE; GMC ACADIA, SIERRA, YUKON, YUKON XL, SATURN OUTLOOK; AND MY 2008 BUICK ENCLAVE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HEATED WIPER WASHER FLUID SYSTEM. A SHORT CIRCUIT ON THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE WASHER FLUID HEATER MAY OVERHEAT THE CONTROL-CIRCUIT GROUND WIRE.
Risk: THIS MAY CAUSE OTHER ELECTRICAL FEATURES TO MALFUNCTION, CREATE AN ODOR, OR CAUSE SMOKE INCREASING THE RISK OF A FIRE.
08V410000
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
GM IS RECALLING 88,809 MY 2008 BUICK ENCLAVE, AND MY 2007-2008 GMC ACADIA AND SATURN OUTLOOK VEHICLES CURRENTLY OR PREVIOUSLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING STATES: ALASKA, COLORADO, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IDAHO, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MONTANA, NEBRASKA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, NORTH DAKOTA, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, SOUTH DAKOTA, UTAH, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, WYOMING, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. IF A BUILDUP OF SNOW OR ICE ON THE WINDSHIELD OR ON THE WIPERS RESTRICTS THE MOVEMENT OF THE WIPER ARM, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINKAGE MAY BECOME DETACHED FROM THE MOTOR SHAFT AND THE WIPERS MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE.
Risk: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, DRIVER VISIBILITY COULD BE REDUCED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201528036,369 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles equipped with a power liftgate system, the gas-filled struts (which help to raise and support the liftgate) may prematurely wear. These vehicles have a Prop Rod Recovery system intended to accomplish a controlled, slow return of the liftgate to the closed position if the liftgate’s gas struts are no longer capable of supporting the weight of the liftgate. The vehicle would provide audible warnings and flash the tail lamps to indicate there is a problem. However, the liftgate’s Prop Rod Recovery system software may be unable to detect/stop a liftgate with prematurely worn gas struts from falling too quickly after the liftgate is opened. This could allow the liftgate to drop suddenly, placing anyone beneath or near the gate at risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the power liftgate actuator motor ECU with a new software and will verify power liftgate operation following the reprogram.
Recall 201408170,526 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, side airbag wiring connections could develop high resistance, illuminating the airbag warning light. If the vehicle continues to be operated in this condition, resistance may continue to increase over time and eventually cause the seat side airbags and seat belt pretensioners to not deploy in the event of a crash, which could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will affect repairs.
Recall 201018999,000 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles equipped with a Heated Washer Fluid System (HWFS), a short circuit on the printed circuit board for the washer fluid heater may overheat the control-circuit ground wire. A repair was implemented in a recall in 2008, however, there have been new reports of thermal incidents on heated washer fluid system modules after this improvement was installed. This situation may cause some minor distortion, but also could lead to melting of the plastic around the heated washer fluid system, or cause a fire. Correction: Dealers will permanently disable and remove the heated washer fluid module. An updated page will be provided and inserted in the Owner Manual to document the removal of the feature.
Recall 200831354,431 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles equipped with a heated washer fluid system, a short circuit on the printed circuit board for the washer fluid heater may overheat the control-circuit ground wire. This situation may cause other electrical features to malfunction which could cause smoke and in some cases a fire. Correction: Dealer will install a wire harness with an in-line fuse.
Recall 200828316,533 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles registered in areas with moderate to heavy snowfall, a buildup of snow or ice on the windshield or wipers could restrict the movement of the wiper arm and the wiper linkage may become detached from motor shaft and the wipers will become inoperative. This situation, in conjunction with traffic, road conditions, and driver's reactions, could increase the risk of a crash. Correction: Dealers will install a new wiper crank arm, driver's side link, and crank arm nut.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 80,000 milesLexington, KYFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ISSUES WITH MY OUTLOOK ALTERNATOR CAUGHT ENGINE ON FIRE, ELECTRICAL ISSUES WITH STABILIZER/TRACKING CONTROLS, WINDOWS/MIRROR AND MAINLY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON WHILE DRIVING AND TRANSMISSION SLIPS INTO LOW OR 2ND GEAR. I HAD TO PULL TO EMERGENCY LANE AND HAVE VEHICLE TOWED TWICE. DEALER STATES ITS AN ISSUE WITH OBD/OBI CODES AND CLEARS CODE. VEHICLE CONTINUES TO DO THIS ALMOST DAILY, WEEKLY. WATER LEAKS THROUGH SUNROOF, FRONT WINDOW GLASS, UNDER DASH ON FEET OF DRIVER AND PASSENGER; WATER LEAKS VIA DVD SYSTEM WHILE DRIVING AND STATIONARY. ALTERNATOR CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE DRIVING AND I COASTED INTO A DRIVEWAY AND LIFTED HOOD THE FLAMES STARTED, FIRE DEPT. CONTACTED IMMEDIATELY TO PUT OUT. DAMAGE TO VEHICLE WIRES, TUBES, ETC UNDER HOOD. PASSENGER SIDE FRONT WINDOW AND MIRROR WILL NOT PUSH OUT OF ROLL DOWN DUE TO ELECTRICAL ISSUE DRIVING AND STATIONARY. RECALL ON STRUTS FOR AUTO LIFT GATE, BUT REAL ISSUE IS MODULE TO LIFT LIFTGATE WAS A FEE TO BE REPAIRED. WHAT DID RECALL COVER WITH LIFT GATE? THESE ISSUES HAPPEN NO STOP SINCE 2012 WHEN VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED. I DROVE ON INTERSTATE AND AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, TRANSMISSION WENT TO LOW GEAR AND I ALMOST WAS HIT BECAUSE VEHICLE JERKED WHEN THIS HAPPENED AND POWER/SPEED INSTANTLY DROPPED.
NHTSA complaint #11180048 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesLexington, KYFire
ENGINE
ISSUES WITH MY OUTLOOK ALTERNATOR CAUGHT ENGINE ON FIRE, ELECTRICAL ISSUES WITH STABILIZER/TRACKING CONTROLS, WINDOWS/MIRROR AND MAINLY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON WHILE DRIVING AND TRANSMISSION SLIPS INTO LOW OR 2ND GEAR. I HAD TO PULL TO EMERGENCY LANE AND HAVE VEHICLE TOWED TWICE. DEALER STATES ITS AN ISSUE WITH OBD/OBI CODES AND CLEARS CODE. VEHICLE CONTINUES TO DO THIS ALMOST DAILY, WEEKLY. WATER LEAKS THROUGH SUNROOF, FRONT WINDOW GLASS, UNDER DASH ON FEET OF DRIVER AND PASSENGER; WATER LEAKS VIA DVD SYSTEM WHILE DRIVING AND STATIONARY. ALTERNATOR CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE DRIVING AND I COASTED INTO A DRIVEWAY AND LIFTED HOOD THE FLAMES STARTED, FIRE DEPT. CONTACTED IMMEDIATELY TO PUT OUT. DAMAGE TO VEHICLE WIRES, TUBES, ETC UNDER HOOD. PASSENGER SIDE FRONT WINDOW AND MIRROR WILL NOT PUSH OUT OF ROLL DOWN DUE TO ELECTRICAL ISSUE DRIVING AND STATIONARY. RECALL ON STRUTS FOR AUTO LIFT GATE, BUT REAL ISSUE IS MODULE TO LIFT LIFTGATE WAS A FEE TO BE REPAIRED. WHAT DID RECALL COVER WITH LIFT GATE? THESE ISSUES HAPPEN NO STOP SINCE 2012 WHEN VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED. I DROVE ON INTERSTATE AND AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, TRANSMISSION WENT TO LOW GEAR AND I ALMOST WAS HIT BECAUSE VEHICLE JERKED WHEN THIS HAPPENED AND POWER/SPEED INSTANTLY DROPPED.
NHTSA complaint #11180048 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesLexington, KYFire
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
ISSUES WITH MY OUTLOOK ALTERNATOR CAUGHT ENGINE ON FIRE, ELECTRICAL ISSUES WITH STABILIZER/TRACKING CONTROLS, WINDOWS/MIRROR AND MAINLY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON WHILE DRIVING AND TRANSMISSION SLIPS INTO LOW OR 2ND GEAR. I HAD TO PULL TO EMERGENCY LANE AND HAVE VEHICLE TOWED TWICE. DEALER STATES ITS AN ISSUE WITH OBD/OBI CODES AND CLEARS CODE. VEHICLE CONTINUES TO DO THIS ALMOST DAILY, WEEKLY. WATER LEAKS THROUGH SUNROOF, FRONT WINDOW GLASS, UNDER DASH ON FEET OF DRIVER AND PASSENGER; WATER LEAKS VIA DVD SYSTEM WHILE DRIVING AND STATIONARY. ALTERNATOR CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE DRIVING AND I COASTED INTO A DRIVEWAY AND LIFTED HOOD THE FLAMES STARTED, FIRE DEPT. CONTACTED IMMEDIATELY TO PUT OUT. DAMAGE TO VEHICLE WIRES, TUBES, ETC UNDER HOOD. PASSENGER SIDE FRONT WINDOW AND MIRROR WILL NOT PUSH OUT OF ROLL DOWN DUE TO ELECTRICAL ISSUE DRIVING AND STATIONARY. RECALL ON STRUTS FOR AUTO LIFT GATE, BUT REAL ISSUE IS MODULE TO LIFT LIFTGATE WAS A FEE TO BE REPAIRED. WHAT DID RECALL COVER WITH LIFT GATE? THESE ISSUES HAPPEN NO STOP SINCE 2012 WHEN VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED. I DROVE ON INTERSTATE AND AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, TRANSMISSION WENT TO LOW GEAR AND I ALMOST WAS HIT BECAUSE VEHICLE JERKED WHEN THIS HAPPENED AND POWER/SPEED INSTANTLY DROPPED.
NHTSA complaint #11180048 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesNiles, MIFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE TRUCK ABS LIGHT CAME ON AND A FIRE STARTED. I GOT EVERYONE OUT AND THE FIRE BLEW UP AND EVERYTHING BURNED DOWN TO THE BODY. WE HAD IT TOWED BY POLICE TO PREVENT A FURTHER FIRE. IT LOOKS LIKE IT STARTED NEAR THE BATTERY IN THE BACK OF THE TRUCK . I HAD NO PROBLEMS PRIOR TO THIS HAPPENING . IT JUST ALL OF THE SUDDEN CAUGHT ON FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #11051508 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 159,000 milesDetroit, MIFire
AIR BAGS
THERE IS A LEAK IN BOTH CORNERS OF THE SUNROOF ALLOWING WATER TO LEAK DOWN INTO THE CONSOLE AFFECTING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE AIRBAGS. THERE ARE DRAIN HOLES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE SUN ROOF BUT THE WATER DOSENT GO DOWN. THE WATER DAMAGED SEVERAL WIRES UNDER THE PASSENGER SEAT AND IT ALSO DAMAGED THE FUEL BOX. I DID NOT KNOW THIS UNTIL I STARTED THE CAR AND SAW SMOKE COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE FLOORAND UNDER GLOVE BOX. I TOOK IT TO THE REPAIR SHOP WHERE HE SHOWED ME THE BURNED FUSE BOX AND ALSO A PUDDLE OF WATER UNDERNEATH THE PASSENGER SEAT AND THE WIRES UNDER THE SEAT WERE ALSO BURNED . THIS CAR HAS A DEFECT IN THE SUNROOF ALLOWING WATER TO DRAIN INTO THE CONSOL ONTO WIRES AND THEY CATCH FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #10979327 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 159,000 milesDetroit, MIFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THERE IS A LEAK IN BOTH CORNERS OF THE SUNROOF ALLOWING WATER TO LEAK DOWN INTO THE CONSOLE AFFECTING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE AIRBAGS. THERE ARE DRAIN HOLES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE SUN ROOF BUT THE WATER DOSENT GO DOWN. THE WATER DAMAGED SEVERAL WIRES UNDER THE PASSENGER SEAT AND IT ALSO DAMAGED THE FUEL BOX. I DID NOT KNOW THIS UNTIL I STARTED THE CAR AND SAW SMOKE COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE FLOORAND UNDER GLOVE BOX. I TOOK IT TO THE REPAIR SHOP WHERE HE SHOWED ME THE BURNED FUSE BOX AND ALSO A PUDDLE OF WATER UNDERNEATH THE PASSENGER SEAT AND THE WIRES UNDER THE SEAT WERE ALSO BURNED . THIS CAR HAS A DEFECT IN THE SUNROOF ALLOWING WATER TO DRAIN INTO THE CONSOL ONTO WIRES AND THEY CATCH FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #10979327 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Monroeville, PA
POWER TRAIN
Transmission is failing. Reverse is slipping. Low torque trying back up inclines. Known problem with 2008 Acadia, Enclave, Traverse & Outlook per transmission shop who test drove and scanned. No code via dashboard, but scan tools and professional diagnostics verify failure. Techem has been replaced in February 2019, by GM service @ owners expense when forward drive failed.
NHTSA complaint #11622653 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Carpentersville, IL
AIR BAGS
Over this summer I went to start my truck and all the airbags pop out expect for the steering wheel air bag and dashboard air bag
NHTSA complaint #11555105 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lebanon, OH
POWER TRAIN
This has been a big problem for all Saturn owners. The transmissions are always going out in them. This transmission is starting to slip. I’m surprised there is no recalls. Very disappointed.
NHTSA complaint #11548011 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Worcester, MA
AIR BAGS
airbag sensor on passenger seat stays off even when passenger is in seat. I have read many complaints from same vehicle since they were new. Also has electrical issues intermittently possibly from water leaking thru sunroof
NHTSA complaint #11462196 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Worcester, MA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
airbag sensor on passenger seat stays off even when passenger is in seat. I have read many complaints from same vehicle since they were new. Also has electrical issues intermittently possibly from water leaking thru sunroof
NHTSA complaint #11462196 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 197,357 milesNorth Canton, OH
VISIBILITY/WIPER
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Outlook. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front windshield wiper failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with windshield wiper motor failure. The contact was informed that the windshield wiper motor cover assembly needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V609000 (Visibility) however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was 197,357.
NHTSA complaint #11451200 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Santee, SC
AIR BAGS
UNKNOWN
NHTSA complaint #11434345 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Santee, SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
UNKNOWN
NHTSA complaint #11434345 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 180,000 milesTacoma, WA
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Outlook. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the airbag warning light illuminated and remained illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the MDS was not communicating with the airbags. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
NHTSA complaint #11431261 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,692 milesBerkley, MI
TIRES
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Outlook. The contact stated while inspecting the vehicle, the contact noticed that all 4 tires had started cracking along the tread. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 15T002000 (Tires) however, the tires were not included. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,692.
NHTSA complaint #11430651 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salem, OR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
My low beam headlight started to intermittently go out for a while. Then it went out completely. I go to replace the bulb only to find that the bulb wasn’t the actual issue. The harness, wires, and socket to the bulb were blackened, burnt and melted. So now it all needs to be replaced. I’ve seen on several forums that has happened to so many people that have a car manufactured by GM. The original wiring is not quality enough for the heat and current that goes through there.
NHTSA complaint #11430215 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salem, OR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My low beam headlight started to intermittently go out for a while. Then it went out completely. I go to replace the bulb only to find that the bulb wasn’t the actual issue. The harness, wires, and socket to the bulb were blackened, burnt and melted. So now it all needs to be replaced. I’ve seen on several forums that has happened to so many people that have a car manufactured by GM. The original wiring is not quality enough for the heat and current that goes through there.
NHTSA complaint #11430215 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 138,000 milesNampa, ID
STEERING
The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Outlook. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 mph, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact pulled over however, the steering functionality did not return. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed and repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.
NHTSA complaint #11425827 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Philadelphia, PA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Multiple time my vehicle became wet in the inside due to a sun roof drainage tube issue. My vehicle stopped while in motion and there was a burning smell. Now none of my windows will go up and the car no longer starts. I have a loud knocking sound coming from the dash when I turn the heater or AC on. Now my dash shows service theft deterrent system. The first time I thought maybe the tube was clogged. I now come to find out that is was/is a on going issue with GM. I could've lost my life or been possibly rear-ended at highway speed due to GM not knowing how to make a sunroof.
NHTSA complaint #11425053 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Austin, TX
STEERING
While driving. Lost power, steering locked up. Discontented and reconnected the battery. Problem cleared.
NHTSA complaint #11418164 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Austin, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving. Lost power, steering locked up. Discontented and reconnected the battery. Problem cleared.
NHTSA complaint #11418164 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 181,000 milesRochester, NY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
THE SUNROOF LEAKS WATER FROM THE DASH THE REAR CAUSING THE CEILING TO BE SOAKED AND MALFUNCTIONING OF SUNROOF WATER LEAKED ON FLOOR OF THE WHOLE CAR CANS SIDE REAR VIEWS CAUSES THE DASH ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TO GO OUT MOTOR BLOWERS IS FILLING UP WITH WATER SO AC/ HEATER CAN NOT DEFROST CAR SO VISIBILITY TO DRIVE CAR IT IS UNSAFE AND CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AND VERY EXPENSIVE TO CONSTANTLY REPLACE A BLOWER THAT WILL CONSTANT FILL UP WITH WATER TO TO SUNROOF DRAINAGE CONSTANTLY CLOTTING AND WON'T DRAIN AND FLOORS FLOODING EVENTUALLY THIS WILL CAUSE CORROSION OR FIRE BEING WATER AND ELECTRICITY DON'T MIX WELL I HAVE 3 CHILDREN I DON'T FEEL WE ARE SAFE IN OUR VEHICLE THIS IS OUR ONLY FORM OF TRANSPORTATION THE SPEAKERS GO IN AND OUT DUE TO THE WATER LEAKED AND SOON COME WINTER CAR WILL NOT BE ABLE TO LEAKY DRIVE BEING MOTOR BLOWERS WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CONSTANTLY BE PURCHASED DUE TO GOING OUT BECAUSE WATER BACK UP AND LEAKED AND THE CAR BECOMES DRENCHED IN WATER VIA SEATS AND FLOOR DRIVE SEAT IS ELECTRICAL EVENTUALLY WATER WILL CAUSE A PROBLEM I JUST WANT MY KIDS SAFE AND SECURE IN A VEHICLE AND AS I READ PREVIOUS PROBLEM SOME HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME ISSUES I'M GOING THROUGH AS OF RIGHT NOW. THE CAR CAN BE STATIONARY OR IN MOTION WATER JUST LEAKS FROM CEILING ON FLOOR FLOOR IS WET AS I DRIVE I CAN HEAR WATER ON CEILING MOVING AROUND SOME WATER EVEN RUN ACCROSS WINDSHIELD WHILE I'M DRIVING A LOT. SOME RUNS ON MY LEG WHILE I'M DRIVING WHERE THE BRAKE PADS AND GAS PEDAL ARE WHICH HAVE WIRES THERE THAT ARE ELECTRICAL ON TOP OF THE FLOORS BEING SOAKED THAT'S A FIRE HAZARD
NHTSA complaint #11366138 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 181,000 milesRochester, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE SUNROOF LEAKS WATER FROM THE DASH THE REAR CAUSING THE CEILING TO BE SOAKED AND MALFUNCTIONING OF SUNROOF WATER LEAKED ON FLOOR OF THE WHOLE CAR CANS SIDE REAR VIEWS CAUSES THE DASH ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TO GO OUT MOTOR BLOWERS IS FILLING UP WITH WATER SO AC/ HEATER CAN NOT DEFROST CAR SO VISIBILITY TO DRIVE CAR IT IS UNSAFE AND CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AND VERY EXPENSIVE TO CONSTANTLY REPLACE A BLOWER THAT WILL CONSTANT FILL UP WITH WATER TO TO SUNROOF DRAINAGE CONSTANTLY CLOTTING AND WON'T DRAIN AND FLOORS FLOODING EVENTUALLY THIS WILL CAUSE CORROSION OR FIRE BEING WATER AND ELECTRICITY DON'T MIX WELL I HAVE 3 CHILDREN I DON'T FEEL WE ARE SAFE IN OUR VEHICLE THIS IS OUR ONLY FORM OF TRANSPORTATION THE SPEAKERS GO IN AND OUT DUE TO THE WATER LEAKED AND SOON COME WINTER CAR WILL NOT BE ABLE TO LEAKY DRIVE BEING MOTOR BLOWERS WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CONSTANTLY BE PURCHASED DUE TO GOING OUT BECAUSE WATER BACK UP AND LEAKED AND THE CAR BECOMES DRENCHED IN WATER VIA SEATS AND FLOOR DRIVE SEAT IS ELECTRICAL EVENTUALLY WATER WILL CAUSE A PROBLEM I JUST WANT MY KIDS SAFE AND SECURE IN A VEHICLE AND AS I READ PREVIOUS PROBLEM SOME HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME ISSUES I'M GOING THROUGH AS OF RIGHT NOW. THE CAR CAN BE STATIONARY OR IN MOTION WATER JUST LEAKS FROM CEILING ON FLOOR FLOOR IS WET AS I DRIVE I CAN HEAR WATER ON CEILING MOVING AROUND SOME WATER EVEN RUN ACCROSS WINDSHIELD WHILE I'M DRIVING A LOT. SOME RUNS ON MY LEG WHILE I'M DRIVING WHERE THE BRAKE PADS AND GAS PEDAL ARE WHICH HAVE WIRES THERE THAT ARE ELECTRICAL ON TOP OF THE FLOORS BEING SOAKED THAT'S A FIRE HAZARD
NHTSA complaint #11366138 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 181,000 milesRochester, NY
VISIBILITY/WIPER
THE SUNROOF LEAKS WATER FROM THE DASH THE REAR CAUSING THE CEILING TO BE SOAKED AND MALFUNCTIONING OF SUNROOF WATER LEAKED ON FLOOR OF THE WHOLE CAR CANS SIDE REAR VIEWS CAUSES THE DASH ELECTRICAL SYSTEM TO GO OUT MOTOR BLOWERS IS FILLING UP WITH WATER SO AC/ HEATER CAN NOT DEFROST CAR SO VISIBILITY TO DRIVE CAR IT IS UNSAFE AND CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AND VERY EXPENSIVE TO CONSTANTLY REPLACE A BLOWER THAT WILL CONSTANT FILL UP WITH WATER TO TO SUNROOF DRAINAGE CONSTANTLY CLOTTING AND WON'T DRAIN AND FLOORS FLOODING EVENTUALLY THIS WILL CAUSE CORROSION OR FIRE BEING WATER AND ELECTRICITY DON'T MIX WELL I HAVE 3 CHILDREN I DON'T FEEL WE ARE SAFE IN OUR VEHICLE THIS IS OUR ONLY FORM OF TRANSPORTATION THE SPEAKERS GO IN AND OUT DUE TO THE WATER LEAKED AND SOON COME WINTER CAR WILL NOT BE ABLE TO LEAKY DRIVE BEING MOTOR BLOWERS WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CONSTANTLY BE PURCHASED DUE TO GOING OUT BECAUSE WATER BACK UP AND LEAKED AND THE CAR BECOMES DRENCHED IN WATER VIA SEATS AND FLOOR DRIVE SEAT IS ELECTRICAL EVENTUALLY WATER WILL CAUSE A PROBLEM I JUST WANT MY KIDS SAFE AND SECURE IN A VEHICLE AND AS I READ PREVIOUS PROBLEM SOME HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME ISSUES I'M GOING THROUGH AS OF RIGHT NOW. THE CAR CAN BE STATIONARY OR IN MOTION WATER JUST LEAKS FROM CEILING ON FLOOR FLOOR IS WET AS I DRIVE I CAN HEAR WATER ON CEILING MOVING AROUND SOME WATER EVEN RUN ACCROSS WINDSHIELD WHILE I'M DRIVING A LOT. SOME RUNS ON MY LEG WHILE I'M DRIVING WHERE THE BRAKE PADS AND GAS PEDAL ARE WHICH HAVE WIRES THERE THAT ARE ELECTRICAL ON TOP OF THE FLOORS BEING SOAKED THAT'S A FIRE HAZARD
NHTSA complaint #11366138 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Santa Maria, CA
SEAT BELTS
THERE HAVE NOT BEEN ANY INCIDENT SUCH AS AUTO ACCIDENTS. IT JUST THAT MY DASH LIGHTS UP STATING TO SERVICE MY AIR BAGS. ALSO WHEN STEPPING ON MY BRAKE THE SEAT BELTS DON'T SEEM TO HOLD YOU . SATURN CUSTOMERS HAVE COMPLAIN ABOUT THIS ON INTERNET, SO IT IS NOT A LONE CASE. SATURN COMPANY WENT OUT OF BUSINESS. WHO DO I COMPLAIN TO
NHTSA complaint #11365840 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Santa Maria, CA
AIR BAGS
THERE HAVE NOT BEEN ANY INCIDENT SUCH AS AUTO ACCIDENTS. IT JUST THAT MY DASH LIGHTS UP STATING TO SERVICE MY AIR BAGS. ALSO WHEN STEPPING ON MY BRAKE THE SEAT BELTS DON'T SEEM TO HOLD YOU . SATURN CUSTOMERS HAVE COMPLAIN ABOUT THIS ON INTERNET, SO IT IS NOT A LONE CASE. SATURN COMPANY WENT OUT OF BUSINESS. WHO DO I COMPLAIN TO
NHTSA complaint #11365840 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesNixa, MO
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
WHEN IT RAINS WATER IS LEAKING INTO THE VEHICLE & THROUGHOUT THE 2 YEARS I'VE OWNED IT THE RAIN HAS LEAKED IN MULTIPLE LOCATIONS DESPITE HAVING IT FIXED & CAUSES THE WIRING, LIGHTING & DETRIMENTAL/SAFETY SENSORS & ELECTRICAL PARTS TO BE DAMAGED. I BECAME ESPECIALLY WORRIED WHEN I LEARNED A FRIEND WITH A 2008 GMC ACADIA (IDENTICAL VEHICLE TO SATURN OUTLOOK) IS HAVING THE EXACT SAME WATER ISSUES. WITHIN A MONTH OR 2 OF HAVING THE LEAKING AND DAMAGED FIXED NEW SENSORS GET WET & ISSUES ARISE DUE TO LEAKING IN NEW/DIFFERENT LOCATIONS. I FIRST NOTICED IT LEAKING IN THE FRONT BY THE WINDOWS & SUNROOF & CAUSING THE RADIO SPEAKERS TO QUIT. WITHIN A SHORT WHILE AFTER FIXING IT THE HEADLIGHTS, TAIL LIGHTS & AIR CONDITIONING THEN STARTED CUTTING OUT & NOT WORKING. ONCE AGAIN I HAD THE ISSUE FIXED BUT NOW IT IS LEAKING IN THE DASH WHERE WATER CAN BE HEARD SLOSHING AROUND WHEN TURNING & OCCASIONALLY LEAKS INTO THE FRONT FLOOR BOARD. NOW THE 'STABILITRAK' & TRACTION CONTROL ARE ALL HAVING ISSUES AS WELL AS TRANSMISSION SENSORS MAKING MY CAR UNDRIVABLE AND UNABLE TO SHIFT FROM SECOND GEAR UNTIL THE CAR SITS IN THE SUN OR DRIES OUT FOR A FEW DAYS. THE SPEAKERS ARE ALSO NOT WORKING MAKING THE BACK UP CAM, AND EVEN THE WARNING DASH LIGHTS HAVE NO SOUND. ** AS MENTIONED BEFORE THERE ARE MANY ONLINE FORUMS THAT TALK ABOUT THIS LEAKING ISSUE IN BOTH THE SATURN OUTLOOK & GMC ACADIA'S. IT IS VERY WORRISOME THAT THINGS WILL SEEM TO WORK & SUDDENLY STOP WORKING DUE TO WATER LOG DAMAGE & WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT & HEADLIGHTS/TAIL LIGHTS FLICKER OR QUIT IT IS VERY SCARY & DANGEROUS. THE SERIOUS ISSUES WITH SENSORS (TRANSMISSION SENSORS & STABILITY) JUST BEGAN ON MY CAR RECENTLY & SINCE I'VE HAD THIS ISSUE FIXED SO MANY TIMES IT NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED FURTHER BEFORE SOMEONE GETS HURT.
NHTSA complaint #11338895 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesNixa, MO
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
WHEN IT RAINS WATER IS LEAKING INTO THE VEHICLE & THROUGHOUT THE 2 YEARS I'VE OWNED IT THE RAIN HAS LEAKED IN MULTIPLE LOCATIONS DESPITE HAVING IT FIXED & CAUSES THE WIRING, LIGHTING & DETRIMENTAL/SAFETY SENSORS & ELECTRICAL PARTS TO BE DAMAGED. I BECAME ESPECIALLY WORRIED WHEN I LEARNED A FRIEND WITH A 2008 GMC ACADIA (IDENTICAL VEHICLE TO SATURN OUTLOOK) IS HAVING THE EXACT SAME WATER ISSUES. WITHIN A MONTH OR 2 OF HAVING THE LEAKING AND DAMAGED FIXED NEW SENSORS GET WET & ISSUES ARISE DUE TO LEAKING IN NEW/DIFFERENT LOCATIONS. I FIRST NOTICED IT LEAKING IN THE FRONT BY THE WINDOWS & SUNROOF & CAUSING THE RADIO SPEAKERS TO QUIT. WITHIN A SHORT WHILE AFTER FIXING IT THE HEADLIGHTS, TAIL LIGHTS & AIR CONDITIONING THEN STARTED CUTTING OUT & NOT WORKING. ONCE AGAIN I HAD THE ISSUE FIXED BUT NOW IT IS LEAKING IN THE DASH WHERE WATER CAN BE HEARD SLOSHING AROUND WHEN TURNING & OCCASIONALLY LEAKS INTO THE FRONT FLOOR BOARD. NOW THE 'STABILITRAK' & TRACTION CONTROL ARE ALL HAVING ISSUES AS WELL AS TRANSMISSION SENSORS MAKING MY CAR UNDRIVABLE AND UNABLE TO SHIFT FROM SECOND GEAR UNTIL THE CAR SITS IN THE SUN OR DRIES OUT FOR A FEW DAYS. THE SPEAKERS ARE ALSO NOT WORKING MAKING THE BACK UP CAM, AND EVEN THE WARNING DASH LIGHTS HAVE NO SOUND. ** AS MENTIONED BEFORE THERE ARE MANY ONLINE FORUMS THAT TALK ABOUT THIS LEAKING ISSUE IN BOTH THE SATURN OUTLOOK & GMC ACADIA'S. IT IS VERY WORRISOME THAT THINGS WILL SEEM TO WORK & SUDDENLY STOP WORKING DUE TO WATER LOG DAMAGE & WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT & HEADLIGHTS/TAIL LIGHTS FLICKER OR QUIT IT IS VERY SCARY & DANGEROUS. THE SERIOUS ISSUES WITH SENSORS (TRANSMISSION SENSORS & STABILITY) JUST BEGAN ON MY CAR RECENTLY & SINCE I'VE HAD THIS ISSUE FIXED SO MANY TIMES IT NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED FURTHER BEFORE SOMEONE GETS HURT.
NHTSA complaint #11338895 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesNixa, MO
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
WHEN IT RAINS WATER IS LEAKING INTO THE VEHICLE & THROUGHOUT THE 2 YEARS I'VE OWNED IT THE RAIN HAS LEAKED IN MULTIPLE LOCATIONS DESPITE HAVING IT FIXED & CAUSES THE WIRING, LIGHTING & DETRIMENTAL/SAFETY SENSORS & ELECTRICAL PARTS TO BE DAMAGED. I BECAME ESPECIALLY WORRIED WHEN I LEARNED A FRIEND WITH A 2008 GMC ACADIA (IDENTICAL VEHICLE TO SATURN OUTLOOK) IS HAVING THE EXACT SAME WATER ISSUES. WITHIN A MONTH OR 2 OF HAVING THE LEAKING AND DAMAGED FIXED NEW SENSORS GET WET & ISSUES ARISE DUE TO LEAKING IN NEW/DIFFERENT LOCATIONS. I FIRST NOTICED IT LEAKING IN THE FRONT BY THE WINDOWS & SUNROOF & CAUSING THE RADIO SPEAKERS TO QUIT. WITHIN A SHORT WHILE AFTER FIXING IT THE HEADLIGHTS, TAIL LIGHTS & AIR CONDITIONING THEN STARTED CUTTING OUT & NOT WORKING. ONCE AGAIN I HAD THE ISSUE FIXED BUT NOW IT IS LEAKING IN THE DASH WHERE WATER CAN BE HEARD SLOSHING AROUND WHEN TURNING & OCCASIONALLY LEAKS INTO THE FRONT FLOOR BOARD. NOW THE 'STABILITRAK' & TRACTION CONTROL ARE ALL HAVING ISSUES AS WELL AS TRANSMISSION SENSORS MAKING MY CAR UNDRIVABLE AND UNABLE TO SHIFT FROM SECOND GEAR UNTIL THE CAR SITS IN THE SUN OR DRIES OUT FOR A FEW DAYS. THE SPEAKERS ARE ALSO NOT WORKING MAKING THE BACK UP CAM, AND EVEN THE WARNING DASH LIGHTS HAVE NO SOUND. ** AS MENTIONED BEFORE THERE ARE MANY ONLINE FORUMS THAT TALK ABOUT THIS LEAKING ISSUE IN BOTH THE SATURN OUTLOOK & GMC ACADIA'S. IT IS VERY WORRISOME THAT THINGS WILL SEEM TO WORK & SUDDENLY STOP WORKING DUE TO WATER LOG DAMAGE & WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT & HEADLIGHTS/TAIL LIGHTS FLICKER OR QUIT IT IS VERY SCARY & DANGEROUS. THE SERIOUS ISSUES WITH SENSORS (TRANSMISSION SENSORS & STABILITY) JUST BEGAN ON MY CAR RECENTLY & SINCE I'VE HAD THIS ISSUE FIXED SO MANY TIMES IT NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED FURTHER BEFORE SOMEONE GETS HURT.
NHTSA complaint #11338895 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 147,930 milesGIG Harbor, WA
STEERING
LOSS OF POWER STEERING AT LOW SPEED. DRIVING IN OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND IN PARKING LOTS.
NHTSA complaint #11337780 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.