2008 Saturn Outlook Saturn Outlook 2008

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2008 Saturn Outlook repairs by problem area

Engine (18%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (10%)

Brakes and Traction Control (5%)

Suspension and Steering (22%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (25%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (14%)

Other (7%)

Chart based on 353 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2008 Saturn Outlook.

2008 Saturn Outlook repair cost distribution

$2500+ (1%)

$1000 - $2499 (6%)

$500 - $999 (12%)

$100 - $499 (26%)

< $100 (55%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 191 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2008 Saturn Outlook

Engine not specified

Saturn Outlook in Illinois, United States
May 2013 - Sep 2013
Sep 2013

59000 mi

US $40
replaced low beam filaments on both sides...one had gone out 

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2008 Saturn Outlook 4dr SUV

275-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saturn Outlook in Georgia, United States
Jun 2008 - Mar 2017
Dec 2011

24000 mi

US $140
Power steering was whining though not having trouble steering. Dealer advised power steering pump needed replacement. Declined to replace as vehicle is out of warranty and I thought it might just be air in the system. Hasn't made noise since 
Jul 2012

28300 mi
Water pump failed. Numerous warning lights and vehicle became undriveable. Fluid dripping from front of the vehicle along with a slight burning smell. 
Mar 2013

33000 mi

US $907
Master cylinder was leaking though no external signs of leakage. Caused Stabilitrack warning light to come on. Door speakers on driver's side (both front and rear side door) were inoperative. 
May 2013

34000 mi

US $531
Auto rear gate ceased to operate and would not latch closed when manually lowered. 
Apr 2014

42200 mi

US $300
Hissing sound coming from dash. Wasn't cooling very much. System needed 2 lbs of freon added. Bringing back for a leak check this week. Check engine light. Evap codes indicated problem with the passive system that is supposed to detect evaporation from the gas tank. This problem was also causing remote start feature to not work. Fix worked temporarily, but has returned. 
Oct 2016

69800 mi

US $1200
ABS and traction control lights began flashing on dash then car went into battery saving mode. A/C shut down. Gradually became harder to drive and then would not restart after stopping. 
Saturn Outlook in Louisiana, United States
Jun 2013 - Jul 2013
Jul 2013

117000 mi

US $135
Power steering pump failing over several months. Researched issue and started with power steering pump. May need rack system replaced soon as well. 
Saturn Outlook in Minnesota, United States
Jul 2007 - Apr 2012
Apr 2012

48000 mi
camshaft needed to be replaced 
Saturn Outlook in Virginia, United States
Sep 2015 - Sep 2015
Sep 2015

94000 mi

US $26
I had 0496 code. Replaced Emission Evaporative Control Solenoid. This cleared the Check Engine light. I watched a You Tube video and it was very helpful. 
Saturn Outlook in Ontario, Canada
May 2008 - Jun 2012
Oct 2008

5580 mi
Clicking noise from steering column. Needs column to be replaced. Parts on order. 
Nov 2008

6200 mi
New steering column ordered from US arrived and was fitted by dealer. Dealer fitted reverse sensing system was too sensitive and pointing in wrong direction! Got them to "tune" it so it wasn't too sensitive and detected horizontally. No longer detects sidewalk when parallel parking! 
Jan 2009

6820 mi
Recurrence of the clicking sound from steering column when turning. Not confident that it won't return again. Squeaking suspension strut (car was sounding like a ten year old taxi with 750,000km on the clock). Shop couldn't reproduce the problem (naturally). Probably some ice stuck in it that melted when it sat in the shop for repair of the steering noise. Squeaking brake pedal when applied. Needed lube. 
Oct 2009

16120 mi
Loose rods in the steering made knocking noise. Rods re-aligned and tightened. Rear door gas rams needed replacing as they were no longer sufficiently holding the tailgate open. 
Feb 2010

18600 mi
Recurrence of noise from steering column when turning at slow speeds. Same as Problem 1 Trip 1 but this time the parts ordered had arrived and were installed. 
May 2010

19220 mi
Recurrence of knocking noise from under engine when driving slowly over bumpy ground. Sounds like something loose. I expect it will return :-( Awful squeaking from rear left suspension strut. Sounded like an old taxi. Now quiet thankfully. 
Mar 2011

29140 mi
Recurrence of noisy steering pump. Told it needed replacing, so it was done! Bit worrying for a car less than three years old. 
Nov 2011

37640 mi
Cooling pump failed and leaked coolant. Unable to drive car, so towed to dealer for repair. 
Saturn Outlook in New Jersey, United States
Aug 2007 - Sep 2010
Oct 2009

34000 mi
Power steering whine. Power steering fluid leak from temperature as noted in TSB. 
Jun 2010

44000 mi
Air conditioning whine at low speed (1900 rpm) since new. Saturn dealer failed to identify TSB. I brought this to the attention of Chevy dealer who is applying TSB. 
Jul 2010

44000 mi
Air conditioning whine at low speed (1900 rpm) since new. Dealer replaced suction hose as per TSB and problem is resolved. 
Saturn Outlook in New York, United States
Jun 2008 - Nov 2014
Apr 2009

8000 mi
Airbag light was on all the time.Driver side sensor had a pinched wire. 
Nov 2009

15000 mi
Drivers airbag light on. Pinched wire under seat. Second repair to wire. 
Nov 2011

32500 mi
Airbag light on. New harness installed under recall. Noise from steering. Steering rack replaced. 
Mar 2014

56000 mi

US $995
Drivers headlight intermittent. Replaced both bulbs. Lower portion of gauges not lighting. Gauge cluster has LED's and is sealed. Needed to replace whole cluster. TPMS not working. Unable to read tire pressures. Replace water pump shaft seals. 
Aug 2014

57300 mi

US $40
Replaced headlight harness. Connector started to melt. Motor for folding drivers side mirror stopped working. Replaced entire mirror 
Nov 2014

58000 mi
Steering wheel noise, possible pump failure 
Saturn Outlook in Indiana, United States
Jan 2013 - Jun 2015
Jan 2014

124300 mi
Difficult to start 
Jan 2015

116300 mi

US $1200
Throttle body replacement 
Saturn Outlook in Florida, United States
May 2008 - Aug 2014
Jun 2012

70000 mi
Rack and pinion not smooth, especially on turns. Could feel it in steering wheel. Also a whine and rattle from under steering column below dashboard. Third time in with a system replacement. Power seat sometimes will not lower from highest position. Have to move it forward and back first then it will lower. 
Mar 2013

81000 mi
Noise in front. Struts were replaced. 
Aug 2014

106000 mi

US $438
Replaced original battery in June 2014. Not bad. However this month the starter quit on me. Towed to the dealer. Starter was replaced the same day. The 438 above does not include 75 tow charge. 
Saturn Outlook in North Carolina, United States
Apr 2011 - Jun 2015
Jun 2011

58000 mi

US $1
Dealer replaced RH headlamp harness, low beam headlamp was out, took it apart and found melted/burned wires in harness. 
May 2013

80000 mi
Instrument cluster gauges all died, all other lights, information center still functional, tech found grounded low speed GMLAN (dark green wire), but wire with short circuit not located, fault disappeared and has not returned in 30 days. Brake master cylinder allows fluid to enter brake vacuum booster, Brake Alarm & Stabilitrak alarm illuminated lo level. Will replace master cylinder & likely brake booster in June, leak may be over 1 year old, but is perhaps worse with time. 
Jun 2013

81000 mi

US $400
Replaced brake master cylinder vacuum booster, and replaced master cylinder, which was leaking from rear seal. Vacuum booster still worked, but exposure to brake fluid is deemed to make it unreliable 
Sep 2013

86000 mi
Air bag sensor warning light would periodically illuminate. It would go out for long periods, then come back. Finally tied warning sensor with drivers seat position, up or down, no problem forward and back. Disconnect reconn conn under seat 
Oct 2013

86500 mi

US $6
Coolant level would not stay in exp. reservoir since car was new. Never overheated. Add coolnt maybe 3 times/year, 1-3 pints. After note about wtr pump fail due to low level, filled and checked, and watched, good sz leak, sealer added now OK 
Nov 2014

101000 mi

US $154
Replaced 3 out of 4 door mounted speakers, one LF was intermittent, two were open cicuited, RR speaker still OK 
Mar 2015

102000 mi
Set Code indicating stuck on valve, vehicle would not shift out of 1st gear until engine stopped and restarted. Source of problem is completely contained in TCM or valve body, intermittent problem that now has gone away with no repair. 
May 2015

108000 mi

US $1400
bad seals on valve body leaking by, replaced valve body, engine powertrain diagnostic was accurate, car drivable during this time slow coolant system leak for 20-30,000 miles, only leaked while driving, no puddles or drips, assumed water pump shaft seal. Stop leak did not work at ?70,000 miles, but did slow it down. Found warranty repair was available from GM, <120k mi 
Saturn Outlook in Ontario, Canada
- Oct 2008
Oct 2008

11942 mi
1/Dead battery after sitting idle for 3 days -- battery replaced by dealer; 2/ after parked on a slope for 10 hours, gas gauge reading was inaccurate - will update if it happens again 
Saturn Outlook in New York, United States
Mar 2009 - Feb 2011
Aug 2010

24300 mi
A/C stopped working. Vent tube was clogged, control module burned out. Tube cleaned, module replaced, ventilation system cleaned out with anti mold treatment. 
Saturn Outlook in Michigan, United States
Nov 2009 - Jun 2011
Jun 2009

9000 mi
Replaced power steering cooler second time under warranty. 
Saturn Outlook in Illinois, United States
Nov 2007 - Mar 2010
Sep 2008

9000 mi
Needed to have the DVD player replaced as DVD's would not play and would not eject form player until the head cooled off. 
Saturn Outlook in Tennessee, United States
Dec 2012 - Jun 2022
Dec 2012

67390 mi
Replaced all 6 Spark Plugs and swapped ignition coil from Cylinder 1 to Cylinder 3 to see if that moved the misfire, it did not. Problem unresolved. Ignition Coil in Cylinder #1 replaced (though I was not asked whether I wanted them to or not). Reprogrammed ECU per TSB for misfires, problem still not resolved. Put dielectric grease on/around ignition coil and spark plug in cylinder #1. Problem still not resolved. 
Jan 2013 All previous issues ended up being caused by a broken valve spring. Cylinder head was replaced to fix the issue. And catalytic converter had to be replaced afterwards due to damage from misfiring. 
Nov 2014

75600 mi

US $700
Throttle body issues due to design flaw with valve cover/pcv tube. Error code P1516 and P2135. 
Jan 2015

76200 mi

US $325
Throttle Body replaced. Error codes P1516 and P2135. 
Nov 2017

92000 mi

US $650
Master Cylinder was leaking into Brake Booster, both had to be replaced. 
Jul 2021

115000 mi

US $150
Shifting became unpredictable and rough, especially climbing hills. Transmission Control Module had to be removed and plastic discs which were ruptured were replaced as well as new o-rings. Put transmission back together and refilled transmission fluid. Issue was resolved for $10 in parts + cost of transmission fluid. Dealer wanted us to replace TCM for thousands, glad we did the repair ourselves. 
Saturn Outlook in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2008 - Mar 2010
Jul 2008

6200 mi
Wrinkle in leather trim in 2nd row seat Driver side by headrest. 
Saturn Outlook in Florida, United States
Mar 2013 - Oct 2013
Apr 2013

81800 mi

US $460
check engine light and stabilitrac warning light on. riding rough. 

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2008 Saturn Outlook 4dr SUV

275-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Saturn Outlook in California, United States
Feb 2014 - Sep 2014
Sep 2014

117000 mi

US $334
Water leak from clogged sunroof tubes Check airbag light coming on 
Saturn Outlook in Arizona, United States
Jun 2007 - Apr 2011
Oct 2007

9000 mi
Recall for trans reflash. Dealer could not locate reflash file on computer. Phone inquiry two weeks later got same result. 
Mar 2008

14000 mi
XM receiver signal dropouts, excessive touch sensitive screen finger pressure required, day/night display switching erratic, radio played music while turned off. 
Apr 2008

17000 mi
Sudden transmission failure. Would not shift after stop. Diagnostic result: 'No 3rd gear'. Dealer found internal debris & stuck valves. Repaired per mfgr direction, dealer replaced piece parts (valves, seals, ...). 
Jan 2009

24000 mi
Water leaking into passenger compartment. Repeat of 9/08 problem. Repeat of the water leak problem. 
Jul 2009

32000 mi

US $600
Rear hatchback would not stay open. Would drift partially closed over time. Replaced both side struts. Very loud "groaning" sound while driving. Two occasions lasting for ~10 sec. Traced to air in power steering line. Flushed and refilled line. 
Saturn Outlook in Quebec, Canada
Nov 2008 - Aug 2015
Jul 2008

7440 mi
Oil Changed Brake pedal make "qwirks" noise and have to push far before the vehicle start slowing down. Dealer had a technical note for that, changed brake fluid and greased the brake pedal. 
Dec 2009

19840 mi
At minus 10c engine cranks but won't start. Take sometimes 3 times to start. Transmission changing gear too fast. Rev à 1200 RMP at 70 KM/h. Big lag when need acceleration. 
Mar 2010

22940 mi

C $450
Did a reset on computer transmission. Nothing changed. 
Apr 2011

36360 mi
Would not cold start at -10c. Crank but wont start. Sometimes it start but start with difficulty (like missing a piston). 
Apr 2012

47740 mi

C $1500
Rear wheel drive no longer work. Had to change sensor. Tailgate struts failed. Rear left window not working anymore. catalytic converter failed. Check engine light on. Rear right light, moisture inside break light, chrome peel off inside the light. Radio won't work when ice on the car. Engine won't start at -10c or will start with difficulty. 
Feb 2013

56580 mi
Transmission Failed. Doesn't shift gear anymore.6000$ damage, replaced tranny with new one. 
Apr 2014

67460 mi

C $400
Tailgate touch pad broken again. This is the third touch pad. actuator intake stuck opened. 
Aug 2015

79360 mi

C $1500
Solenoid stuck. Stuck in 2th gear. Had to change TCM (700$) because you can't change the solenoid alone. It's all part of the TCM. 
Saturn Outlook in Florida, United States
Nov 2008 - Jun 2018
Dec 2009

11000 mi
Driver seat electrical seat adjusting panel came loose. Apparently not locked in place correctly from factory. Technician reseated and locked panel. No problem for one month since fixed. 
May 2011

24200 mi

US $20
Driver window often does not respond to up or down switch. Protective strip on vertical edge of driver door lost adherence on lower 6 inches. Chevy dealer said they had no means to re-stick the strip. They referred us to now defunct Saturn dealership. No luck there. Often heard squeak when turning. Squeak from steering gear bushing. Replaced steering gear with updated part (#PI0029C). Set front toe and test drove. Noise gone. A/C control head "recirculate" button had paint peeling problem. Replaced and programmed the A/C control head-HVAC module. Driver's seat adjustment panel would not stay attached to seat. Repeated attempts to firmly attach panel failed. Left front outer seat bezel tabs were cracked. Replaced left front outer seat bezel insert. 
Nov 2017

104000 mi

US $850
The forward end of the drive shaft dropped to the asphalt as a valet parking person retrieved the Saturn from parking. Two days earlier, we drove interstate from NC to FL! 
Saturn Outlook in Illinois, United States
Jul 2015 - Aug 2015
Jul 2015

99000 mi

US $225
Tranmission control module was noted but it seems to be more of a transmission problem because problem came back after a month after work was performd dealer said it was transmission module another shop replaced it and said there was band material signs of transission plate failure 
Saturn Outlook in North Carolina, United States
Nov 2007 - Dec 2010
Jun 2009

15000 mi
Slight clunk/rattle in front end at low speed. Dealer tightened a couple of bolts. 
Aug 2010

31000 mi
Tachometer backlight. Pulled cluster, checked connections, bulb. Had to order part (new cluster?) 
Saturn Outlook in Michigan, United States
Nov 2007 - Jul 2015
Nov 2009

22000 mi
rear wiper replaced rear wiper under warranty 
Jan 2012

55000 mi
leak in drive train 
Aug 2012

64700 mi

US $16
tire pressure sensor 
Dec 2012

68000 mi

US $10
Low on steering fluid 
Sep 2013

82000 mi
leaking water pump 
Saturn Outlook in New Hampshire, United States
Aug 2007 - Mar 2010
Aug 2007

1200 mi
Seal around Tail-light needed to be re-glued 
Saturn Outlook in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2007 - Jun 2022
Dec 2008

13000 mi
Exterior temperature sensor not working. Rear Saturn emblem is discolored/peeling. Dealer ordered new emblem and will replace it. 
Jan 2009

14000 mi
Replaced rear emblem. 
Feb 2009

15000 mi
Dealer replaced exterior temperature sensor and remounted it in a different location as per TSB. Turn signal switch not working properly. Dealer checked and agreed. Ordered part. 
Apr 2009

17000 mi
Dealer replaced faulty turn signal switch. 
Dec 2010

35000 mi
Update to side impact airbag wiring. Replaced and re-routed some of the wiring. 
Jul 2011

42000 mi
Water leaked from roof area. Leak was found to be the sunroof housing. Housing was resealed. Improperly working blower motor and noise. Dealer replaced blower motor. 
Apr 2012

49000 mi
Water pump with slow leak replaced. 
Mar 2013

60000 mi
Master cylinder was leaking into brake booster, causing brake light to turn on. Master cylinder replaced. 
Jun 2013

61000 mi

US $90
Had AC checked. Didn't seem cold. Dealer recharged system and added dye. 
May 2015

85000 mi

US $500
System was low on charge. Leak test dye added. No leak found. Noise/clunking coming from steering rack. Rack bushings replaced. 
Oct 2015

89500 mi

US $350
Front strut was leaking oil. Replaced both struts and had four wheel alignment. 
Saturn Outlook in Maryland, United States
Nov 2009 - Mar 2010
Sep 2009

31000 mi
Headlight harness needed replacing, known defect not at recall status. 
Saturn Outlook in Wisconsin, United States
Jan 2008 - Nov 2012
Dec 2010

36000 mi
Leaking water pump. 
Mar 2011

38000 mi
Power steering leak; hose replaced. 
Saturn Outlook in Michigan, United States
Feb 2016 - Oct 2017
Feb 2016

191000 mi

US $30
Right rear window switch went out on the car. Rolled window down into the door but would not roll it back up. 
Jul 2016

197700 mi

US $240
Both lower ball joints failing. Replaced. 
Sep 2016

206000 mi

US $100
Window switches on driver's front and passenger rear went bad. 
Saturn Outlook in New Mexico, United States
Apr 2008 - Jul 2009
Sep 2008

4000 mi
Nav system shows "Map DVD Read Error" 3 out of 5 starts. Service cleaned disc and system worked for service manager so "NOT a problem". System failed upon next start. Will return to dealer in 700mi to combine trips. 
Oct 2008

5000 mi
Nav system faild, radio/Nav replaced Tailgate seal leaking at both bottom corners. Seal replaced. Sun roof drain pluged, water leaking into cabin. Screen in drain tube drilled out. 
Mar 2009

9000 mi
Cold start error. Cat convertor fouled, error not repeated, code cleared and warning light reset. 
Saturn Outlook in Pennsylvania, United States
Apr 2008 - Mar 2012
Jan 2010 Power Steering fluid cooler leaking. 
Sep 2011

19000 mi

US $700
Brakes noisy when applied hard or on a downgrade, and left rear wheel hot gets to the touch. Found all four rotors to be badly rusted and pitted, and caliper brackets rusted. Replaced all rotors and pads, and lubricated all slides. 
Saturn Outlook in Maryland, United States
Jan 2008 - Mar 2010
Apr 2009

25000 mi
Leak inside car, entire passenger front floor soaked, followed by ant infestation. Dealer fixed leak, replaced carpet. 

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2008 Saturn Outlook 4dr SUV

270-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saturn Outlook in Pennsylvania, United States
Jun 2011 - Apr 2018
Jul 2011

27000 mi
noise in steering column however further diagnosis proved to be rack boot 
Mar 2012

38000 mi
Found blown fuse to remedy no DRL 
Sep 2012

51000 mi
3/5 R wave plate, no reverse on vehicle repaired according to service bulletin published 
Apr 2013

58200 mi

US $1451
Water pump replaced, engine front cover leak, transmission seal replaced from prior repair 
Nov 2013

73100 mi

US $50
Replaced blower motor 
Apr 2014

76700 mi
Battery draining, not certain if alternator shot or on way out, replaced it, trying to test old one. Changed plugs and serpentine belt as well plugs really fouled used AC Delco iridiums as replacements. 
May 2014

78000 mi
Front speakers bad, replaced with speakers from a Toyota Camry I had 
Jun 2014

80000 mi

US $200
Cracked windshield, no sign of impact, had to replace it to pass inspection. 
Jun 2015

93000 mi

US $20
Purge valve replacement, experienced hard start after adding any amount of gas Changed purge valve due to hard start after gas fillup 
Sep 2015

97000 mi

US $121
Muffler replacement Ordered part from CARID, had it installed at my local mechanics 
Apr 2017

118000 mi

US $350
Replaced motor mounts 
Jun 2017

121000 mi

US $755
Replaced rack and pinion Replaced tie rods, bushings for sway bar, upper control arms and sway bar links 
Saturn Outlook in Virginia, United States
Dec 2014 - Dec 2015
Jan 2015 Water pump failure covered under extended special warranty due to non durable design. 
Dec 2015

122000 mi

US $600
Power steering cooler had a major sudden failure, losing all fluid and wrecking the pump and steering rack. Car had to be towed. Repair covered under OEM extended defect warranty due to poor design. Would have been $1500 if covered by owner. 
Saturn Outlook in California, United States
Jun 2010 - Feb 2015
Dec 2011

58000 mi

US $100
low beam connector burned out replaced at electrical shop 
May 2014

82000 mi

US $50
Replaced evap solenoid part of emissions control 
Saturn Outlook in Texas, United States
Oct 2014 - Jun 2015
May 2015

165700 mi
Power Steering pump leaking- this is the 2nd time having this replaced (First time around 110K) 
Saturn Outlook in Alabama, United States
Oct 2011 - Mar 2013
Feb 2012

41000 mi
Recall Repaired incorrectly by Buick Dealer. Chevy Dealer repaired properly. 
Mar 2013

50000 mi

US $400
Reverse broke and caused other internal damage 
Saturn Outlook in New York, United States
Mar 2009 - May 2010
Apr 2009

12000 mi
Squeak on passenger-dash side of car. Repaired squeak on passenger-dash by putting foam inserts into A-pillar 
Jun 2009

13000 mi
Rear air conditioning only blew out hot air. Tech confirmed problem, and ordered a new thermal expansion valve. Repaired rear air conditioning problem - replaced thermal expansion valve. Works OK now. 
Saturn Outlook in Wisconsin, United States
Apr 2008 - Mar 2019
Oct 2010

39000 mi

US $127
Tortion bar links?? 
Jan 2012

65200 mi
Parking brake light comes on while driving along with warning chime. Does not stop until I pull over, park, push in parking brake, release parking brake. Starts up again with in 10 minutes. 
May 2012

56000 mi

US $300
Motor went out in the passanger side front door. A week after repair, stopped working again. Had to run a new wire. 
Sep 2012

64000 mi
Passenger window not working again. No repair yet. 
Apr 2013

68300 mi
Wiring for power windows broken in the boots between the door and vehicle. windows not working. water inside drivers side passenger door. no sun roof. not sure how water got in there. 
Sep 2013

72000 mi

US $235
Replaced a part due to air conditioner blowing hot air. Fan was also running funny. 
Mar 2014

77000 mi

US $1800
3-5-R wave plate broke. Replaced with a brand new transmission. 
Dec 2014

84000 mi

US $60
Say bar link on the passenger side broke. Replaced rear springs and shocks, replaced from struts. 
Oct 2016

103700 mi
Dealer replaced Power steering pump under recall/TSB due too power steering going out under low speeds. 
Aug 2017

116000 mi

US $350
Broken sway bars on both sides. Replaced both 
Saturn Outlook in Michigan, United States
May 2008 - Sep 2011
Jun 2008

10000 mi
steering column clunk brake pedal squeak-----installed updated brake fluid trim on rear hatch was damaged by water drivers seat lumbar mech. was replaced  p/steering pump noise drivers seat lumbar steering column clunk brake pedal squeak rear hatch trim replacement 
Jul 2008

14000 mi
Updated trans cal. to may 8th flash 
Feb 2009

31000 mi
Power Steering Cooler was leaking. 
Dec 2009

62000 mi
Replaced front stab. bar links 
Jun 2011

107000 mi

US $300
replaced power steering pump and R/Front strut asm. 
Saturn Outlook in California, United States
Jan 2008 - Jun 2018
Mar 2008

1000 mi
Turn signal indicator audio clicking noise was louder than it should have been when the vehicle was delivered. The dealer connected the car to the internet and the GM tech center recalibrated the radio which eliminated the issue. 
Jan 2009

4000 mi
The Check Airbag Warning Light came on. The sensor in the passenger seat was found to be not functioning and was replaced under warranty. 
Mar 2010

11000 mi
Check Airbag Warning Light came on. Dealer found a loose wire under the front passenger seat and reconnected it. 
May 2010

12000 mi
The rear liftgate struts failed (were leaking), so the rear liftgate would not stay open. The dealer quickly replaced both liftgate struts. 
Saturn Outlook in Ontario, Canada
Nov 2007 - Mar 2019
Apr 2008

4960 mi
"Air Bag" tab on passenger side A pillar would not stay in. Dealer fixed it but also ordered a new handle (not the door handle, the "holy s---" handle on the A pillar. 
May 2008

8680 mi
Console arm rest would squeak when you rested your arm on it. 
Dec 2008

19220 mi
Squeaky break pedal. Service Bulletin already existed - dealer changed brake fluid type. Shock oil leak in rear driver side shock. Complete loss of damping - tire loses contact with road surface over large bumps. Dealer ordered replacement shock. 
Jan 2009

20460 mi
Driver's side rear shock replaced - leaking oil. Airbag tab replaced 
Mar 2010

35960 mi

C $60
Cracked valve stem causing slow leak and low air pressure warning 
Jun 2010

37820 mi
Tie rods worn out, replaced.  AC drainage backing up, draining into passenger side footwell. Shop cleaned drainage hose. 
Dec 2010

47740 mi
Replaced rear hatch struts 
Apr 2011

50840 mi
Sun roof drain hose blockage - repaired as per TSB Left headlight harness faulty - new harness installed 
Jul 2011

54960 mi

C $150
Valve stem broken 
Jul 2012

66180 mi
Timing chain / bolts broken. Water pump leak 
Oct 2013

85340 mi

C $300
Rust perforation on lip of hood. Affected area was too large to effectively repair - GM replaced entire hood. 
Feb 2014

87420 mi

C $600
Power steering oil cooler leaking - cooler was replaced. 
Nov 2016

99160 mi

C $800
Check engine light on - dealer updated software & performed oil change (truck had been in storage for 1 yr) Broken linkage 
Jul 2017

104160 mi

C $500
Hole in resonator 
Jun 2018

112 mi

C $350
Purge valve replacement 
Saturn Outlook in Texas, United States
Aug 2007 - Mar 2013
Apr 2008

6000 mi
Brought in to dealer for oil change and was told of transmission update that needed to be done. Also, guy drove it and noticed slow pickup on it and suggested update of software. 
Jan 2009

17000 mi
Headlight needed changing. Was told bumper had to come off in order to replace bulb. Dealer replaced bulb and inside where the bulb goes. Mechanic said he heard "popping" when wheel turned. Ordered parts. 
Mar 2010

31000 mi
One of the side panels had been sliced. 
Aug 2010

35000 mi
Left panel in trunk kept coming off.  There are small scratches on the tint on driver side door. They said it is not from the door, so we must have done it. They noted it and I said if I noticed new ones I would be bringing it back for them to repair under warrienty. Sunroof leaking. Repaired and isn't leaking any more. 
Dec 2010

42000 mi
Headlights keep going out. No warranty anymore. Looked online, many have this same issue. Hopefully Saturn issues a recall. 
Mar 2011

45000 mi
Headlight melted on the inside. At first they told me I would have to pay, but I fought it and they paid and repaired at no charge. 
Feb 2012

70000 mi
Car was not shifting internally properly. Would rev up when driving. airbag light on and off intermittently. 
Mar 2013

85000 mi

US $1600
ABS, stability control. Forget specifics. 
Saturn Outlook in Louisiana, United States
Oct 2007 - Mar 2010
Oct 2007

4000 mi
Stabilitrac light came on and went out several times. Dealer found camshaft in engine loose. Replaced heads, camshafts and 1 piston. 4 weeks to get parts and repair. 
Nov 2007

10000 mi
During troubleshooting stabilitrac light coming on shop found engien camshaft loose in the head. Replaced camshaft and head. 
Saturn Outlook in Michigan, United States
Mar 2011 - Sep 2011
Jul 2011

54000 mi

US $250
Front stabilizer bar and bushings needed to be replaced. 
Saturn Outlook in New York, United States
Aug 2008 - Jul 2014
Sep 2008 Tranny lagging when trying to pass other cars on highway. Told service dept of problem - they're aware, and knew of a software update. Service Mgr said I was the 1st customer that was more worried about tranny working properly(safely) than MPG. Cost 2MPG. Rear passenger window was stuck first time I tried it when I brought vehicle home. Dealer service discovered weather stripping became loose and jammed window. Stripping replaced, window works fine now. 
Aug 2011

49000 mi

US $470
Moldy smell coming from AC unit. Told at dealer that since model did not have a cabin air filter just to spray a can of Lysol into the air intake. Did not work, AC still stinks. 
Sep 2012

68000 mi
Moldy smell from AC unit. I was told at the dealer that GM has a AC disinfectant but it was too much of a caustic smell and they therefore don't carry it, and still haven't fixed my problem, even after my second complaint regarding this. 
Jan 2014

47000 mi
Transmission started slipping, now it's completely blown. Rebuilt. 
Saturn Outlook in Ohio, United States
Jun 2010 - Jun 2012
Feb 2011

67200 mi
noise in front end slight metallic noise in front end at about 30mph They replaced sway control arm on driver side It took care of the problem !! 
May 2012

82900 mi
noise in front end- this is the second time this was replaced 
Saturn Outlook in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2009 - Jun 2017
Nov 2009

17980 mi
Lift Gate Struts Leaking - Replaced Rear Emblem replaced - peeling 
Apr 2010

21080 mi
Power Steering Cooler Leak - Replaced Power Steering Cooler Leak - Replaced 
Jan 2011

29140 mi
Saturn Emblem on Liftgate Discoloured Check Engine Light and Thick White Smoke on first startup of the day. Dealer waiting on special tool to diagnose. Cyclinder head on engine replaced as head rocker cams out of spec. Timing chain also replaced. Rear Liftgate Emblem replaced Check Engine Light and Thick White Smoke on first startup of the day. Dealer waiting on special tool to diagnose. Cyclinder head on engine replaced as head rocker cams out of spec. Timing chain also replaced. Saturn Emblem on Liftgate Discoloured Rear Liftgate Emblem replaced 
Feb 2011

29760 mi
Cylinder head on engine replaced as head rocker cams out of spec. Timing chain also replaced. Rear Liftgate Emblem replaced SES light on and smelly thick exhaust on startup. Tech determined that the right catalytic converter had failed. Converter replaced, repair successfull. SES light on and smelly thick exhaust on startup. rnrnTech determined that the right catalytic converter had failed. Converter replaced, repair sucesfull. 
Apr 2011

33480 mi
Passenger air bag sensor was not consistently detecting Adult passengers in passenger seat. Dealer diagnosed and found problem with airbag seat sensor. Sensor on order. Passenger Air Bag Sensor not consistently detected Adult passengers in front seat. 
Dec 2011

42160 mi

C $337
Swaybar links loose - replaced. Headlight harness recall. The headlight had gone out for a second time, the recall was very timely. 
Aug 2012

54800 mi
Transmission wave plate broken. Many parts in transmission replaced. 
Nov 2012

58720 mi
Sway bar link loose. Replaced under parts warranty (replaced less than 1 year prior). 
Nov 2014

93840 mi

C $20
Evap. Solenoid failed, replaced. 
Jun 2015

104780 mi

C $200
Right Rear Wheel Speed Sensor Failure. Right Rear Wheel Bearing Hub had to be replaced. Rear end loudly squeaking over bumps and if bumper pushed down. Right rear upper trailing arm replaced and alignment performed. Both rear brake backing plates corroded through / rotting. Replaced left and right backing plates, as well as left wheel bearing which disintegrated upon removal to replace the backing plate. Vehicle started making high pitch whine with electrical burning smell. BATTERY SAVER ACTIVE message came on.rnrnDiagnosed as Alternator internal fault. Generator (Alternator) replaced. Climate control buttons "peeling / flaked". Climate control panel replaced. 
Aug 2015

107780 mi

C $150
Windsheild Wipers stoped working. Wiper transmission failed - part replaced. 
Sep 2015

110360 mi

C $100
Remote unlock on one remote no longer functioning. Button had worn out - remote replaced and new remote paired to vehicle. 
Nov 2015

114080 mi

C $200
Radio and reminder chimes started getting progressively fainter until it was determined 4 of the 6 speakers in the vehicle were no longer working. The 4 in-door speakers were replaced which restored audio to normal functioning. 
Mar 2016

120900 mi

C $300
Transmission cooler line leaking. . Line replaced. 
May 2016

124000 mi

C $200
Right rear shock leaking. . Replaced both rear shocks. 
Jun 2016

126480 mi

C $100
Front windshield washer not spraying washer fluid. Pump bad, replaced pump. AC Blowing hot air. Recharged AC System. AC would intermittently blow cold air, but unpredictably and unreliably. HVAC blend actuators found to be bad - replaced actuators. 
Jul 2016

127280 mi

C $150
Muffler Rusted Through. Replaced Muffler Assembly. Transmission intermittently not shifting beyond first gear. Problem determined to be faulty Transmission Control Module (TCM) sensors. TCM removed and sensors repaired, then re-installed. 
Nov 2016

133940 mi

C $500
Replaced worn front struts and end links 
Jan 2017

137000 mi

C $11000
Engine had lost compression in 3 cylanders. Replaced Engine. 

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2008 Saturn Outlook 4dr SUV

270-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Saturn Outlook in Ohio, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2018
Mar 2010

33300 mi
Rear tail light assy replaced due to paint (chrome) defect. Finish appeared to erode from inside the assembly. 
Apr 2010

34000 mi
Mildew smell from AC evaporator. Injected cleaning foam into evaporator, re-flashed software to incorporate "after-blow" feature. Mildew smell from AC evaporator. Injected cleaning foam into evaporator, re-flashed software to incorporate "after-blow" feature. 
Jul 2010

35000 mi
water pump failed after 2-3 weeks of noisey operation driver's seat track needed to be replaced. Was binding and chattering when moved backwards. driver's seat track needed to be replaced. Was binding and chattering when moved backwards. water pump failed after 2-3 weeks of noisey operation 
Nov 2010

36000 mi
Airbag warning light. Illuminated for ~1 week. Light extinguished itself on the day repair was scheduled, but dealer pulled code and confirmed there was a problem with the driver airbag connectors. TSB was also issued for the Monte Carlo 
Jul 2011

40200 mi
Passenger window switch was intermittant. Dealer replaced. 
Nov 2013

61000 mi

US $50
Clunk in steering column while turning steering wheel. Most noticeable when vehicle not (yet) moving--as if you were turning the wheel in anticipation of (parallel) parking. Steering column and rack both replaced. 
May 2014

65000 mi
Buzz has developed in drive train. Dealer unable to identify. Kept car for 2-days and it still buzzes (1600-1800rpm) once warmed up. I will take to a 3rd party transmission repair specialist to diagnose/repair. 
Jun 2014

67000 mi
After 3rd attempt to locate buzz/rattle, a Cadillac technician ID'd the culprit. It was an undersized clamp installed on the catalytic converter which was causing the buzzing noise. Problem fixed so far (>2200-miles since repair). 
Sep 2014

77000 mi
Replaced struts and stabilizer bar links. Steering rack was replaced (2nd time), since original dealer did not replace washers/shims when the first rack was replaced. 
Aug 2015

93900 mi

US $548
Replaced both rear shocks and stabilizer links. 
Mar 2016

104000 mi

US $935
Passenger front seat airbag weight sensor failed. 
Jun 2017

119000 mi

US $800
Rebuilt transmission with upgraded components. The transmission is still not 100 percent. Working with the shop to fine tune the repair (fingers crossed it all works out). Replaced muffler. 
Mar 2018

128000 mi

US $310
Front windshield wiper assembly broke at motor connection (bushing) 
Saturn Outlook in Connecticut, United States
Jun 2012 - Jun 2012
May 2012

50300 mi

US $490
Replaced Power Steering Pump 
Saturn Outlook in Maryland, United States
Jul 2011 - Mar 2015
Aug 2011

39000 mi

US $90
Car stalled at stop sign and displayed 2 warning messages "Traction Control Off" and "Service Stabilitrack Soon." Messages disappeared after driving a few miles. Dealer found no codes and could not repeat problem. Problem repeated... 
Mar 2012

50000 mi

US $597
Replaced water pump, leaking coolant from weep hole, seal had gone bad causing fluid leak. Replaced water pump and serpentine belt. 
Jun 2012

51000 mi

US $300
Warning said "Traction Control Offline" & "Service Stabilitrack Soon." Dealer said warning caused by cam position sensors and repairs would cost over $1000. Independent service station found problem with brake sensor. Repairs cost $300. 
Feb 2013

64200 mi
Check Engine Light on. Transmission would not shift. Local shop reported fault code P0716, Input Speed Performance fault. Car still under warranty so I took it to dealer. Dealer corrected wrong software in computer and found no problem. Transmission failed at 6:15 AM Tuesday. Towed truck to dealer, found codes P0717, P0756, P0796, & P0842 in computer and metal pieces in transmission fluid. Found 3-5-R wave plate in pieces. Rebuilt transmission, replaced torque converter. Replaced rack & pinion assembly due to large oil leak and whining noise. 
Apr 2013

66700 mi
Transmission failed. Towed to dealer, dealer rebuilt transmission, 3 weeks later transmission would not shift. Dealer spent 2 weeks trying various fixes. Finally replaced torque converter and valve assembly and calls it fixed. We'll see 
Jun 2013

70000 mi

US $525
Right front brake caliper failed causing break pad to lock in on position. Repair required new calipers, pads and rotors on the front. 
Oct 2013

75000 mi
Torque converter locking up caused car to shutter during low speed acceleration. Dealer verified problem and, after multiple failed repair attempts, dealer and GM replaced transmission with new transmission and rebuilt transaxle. 
Aug 2014

90200 mi

US $1000
Torque Converter failed and was replaced. Partial warranty coverage but most cost excluded due to "wear & tear." 
Feb 2015

96000 mi
Transfer Case making noise Rack & Pinion in Power Steering leaking, would cost $1,200 to $2,000 to repair this and replace the transfer case, traded car. 
Saturn Outlook in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2008 - Dec 2010
Feb 2008

1000 mi
Squeaking brake pedal. There is a TSB. The dealer took care of it in a day; involved changing the brake fluid and bleeding the brakes. 
Nov 2008

12000 mi
Drivers side power seat would grind/jump when adjusting the seat forward or backward - repaired in November 2008. The dealer took care of it under warranty by replacing the power seat track, took a week to get the part from GM. Installed new seat track. 
Apr 2009

18000 mi
The transmission (as programmed by GM) has a tendency to delay downshifts which leads to "dead spots" while trying to accelerate under light throttle. GM has a TSB for this and a new program that corrects this complaint. I learned about it online. The center arm-rest squeaks when driving. Dealer won't fix it - they say that GM's warranty does not cover squeaks and rattles of interior trim pieces. 
Sep 2009

27000 mi
Loud buzzing noise was noticed when driving during light acceleration. Dealer replaced a heat shield and the y-pipe to correct the problem. 
Dec 2009

33000 mi
Service air bag warning light and message on instrument cluster. Saturn dealer performed a TSB involving adding dielectric compound to a connector under the seat. This temporarily fixed the problem for less than a week. 
Jan 2010

34000 mi
Service air bag warning light back on less than one week after prior trip in December. Brought it to a different dealer in January (Chevrolet dealer - Saturn dealer is gone). Took 4 days to diagnose, then replaced connector under drivers seat. Service air bag warning light back on less than one week after prior trip in December. Brought it to a different dealer in January (Chevrolet dealer - Saturn dealer is gone). Took 4 days to diagnose, then replaced connector under drivers seat. 
Feb 2010

35200 mi
Took to Chevy dealer (Saturn dealer closed) for a clunking noise in the steering rack observed only when cold. Dealer says that GM is developing a TSB to repair, and that it's not a safety issue. Dealer will call back when GM provides the TSB. 
Jun 2010

41000 mi
Air bag warning light came on a few times during a trip. Dealer states that they could not replicate and no codes were stored, even though On-Star was able to tell me the code when I called them. 
Aug 2010

46000 mi
Noticed coolant leaking from the front of the engine while idling. Dealer diagnosed and replaced water pump under 5/100k power train warranty. 
Sep 2010

47000 mi

US $1175
Clunk in the steering when cold. Dealer replaced steering rack at no charge under Saturn extended warranty.  
Nov 2010

51000 mi

US $175
Shaking and excessive bouncing noticed when going over bumps or at highway speed. Found that the right rear shock absorber was leaking fluid. Part not covered under extended warranty so I purchased and replaced both rear shocks myself.  
Saturn Outlook in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2013 - Oct 2014
Oct 2014

73160 mi
Oil leak from cyl heads 
Saturn Outlook in Minnesota, United States
Jan 2009 - May 2011
Feb 2009

4500 mi
Sunroof leaking in carwash, nothing done. Dealer stated: Some water (even rain) is designed to get by the seal. Drain tubes designed to drain water from sunroof trays can be overcome. 
Apr 2009

8000 mi
Sunroof leaking, glass and seal were replaced. Haven't had leaking since. 
Jul 2009

12000 mi
Rattle in dashboard and headliner. 
Apr 2010

24000 mi
Clicking noise heard upon turning steering wheel and hitting bumps. Steering column and upper strut mounts replaced. Noises are no longer heard. 
Sep 2010

30000 mi
Noticed whine in power steering pump. Power steering fluid was low, no leaks found. 
Mar 2011

38000 mi
Grinding noise while turning, dealer replaced steering gear and tie rods. TSB. Power steering and transmission cooler had leaking hoses, hoses replaced. 
Saturn Outlook in Ohio, United States
Jul 2008 - Mar 2013
Nov 2010

35300 mi
Driver side headlight harness replaced. 
Jan 2011

39000 mi
Passenger side front headlight out. Harness replaced. 
Jan 2013

69000 mi

US $212
Heard rattle when going over bumps 
Saturn Outlook in Michigan, United States
Dec 2009 - Mar 2018
Dec 2010

24000 mi
I had the saturn parked on hill & it kept rolling in park. I had to put the parking brake on to keep it from rolling down the hill. Dealer could not find anything wrong & it never did it again. 
May 2011

27000 mi
both rear shocks leaking both rear shocks leaking 
Mar 2012

35000 mi
front gasket leaking oil torque converter leaking radio had poor reception & interference 
Sep 2012

41000 mi

US $825
steering rack was leaking fluid, it had to be replaced. 
May 2013

45799 mi
exhaust system rusted out, replaced gaskets replaced gaskets 
Jun 2014

55000 mi
LH axle seal leaking 
Sep 2015

64000 mi
sway bar links bad 
Saturn Outlook in Iowa, United States
Apr 2008 - Mar 2010
May 2008

6000 mi
There was a leak in the master cylinder so it was losing brake fluid. The alarm for the stabilitrack system would go off and it would say to have the brakes serviced. They just filled the brake fluid the first 2 times it happened. 3rd time it was fixed. There was a rattle in the vent. They discovered broken parts inside somewhere and had to order parts. It was repaired in June. 
Jun 2008

6000 mi
There was a flaw in the paint of the right back quarter panel. They repainted it. Rattle repaired. 
Sep 2008

10000 mi
Water leaking in down passenger seat belt and around that area. When fixing the leak, they had to pry off two small pieces in the molding that holds seatbelt. They scratched it all up when taking them off. They ordered and replaced the section the seatbelt rolls up into. When turning the steering wheel there is clicking noises. Not sure if it comes from the steering wheel or if it's something in the suspension or somewhere that would be effected when turning. 

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2008 Saturn Outlook 4-door

6-cylinder automatic AWD

Saturn Outlook in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2008 - Mar 2010
Mar 2008

2000 mi
Nav/OnStar shut down - no electrical power supply. The problem disappeared when the car was restarted. OnStar and dealer fault code scan turned up with no fault codes thrown. 

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2008 Saturn Outlook 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

Saturn Outlook in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2007 - Mar 2011
Dec 2007

3000 mi
Passenger side, sideview mirror LED light works intermitantly. Dealer indicated entire mirror assembly had to be ordered and painted. 

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2008 Saturn Outlook 4-door

4-cylinder automatic 2WD

Saturn Outlook in Illinois, United States
Feb 2011 - Mar 2014
Mar 2011

23000 mi
Water leaking into car from faulty seal in sunroof. 

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See TrueDelta's information for all Saturn models.

2008 Saturn Outlook Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2008 Saturn Outlook problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.