Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
07-08-42-00204/01/2008070842002A10021332Daytime running lamps (drl) inoperative (inspect/replace drl resistor). *kb updated 7/11/08. *nj04/04/2007
EXTERIOR LIGHTING - HEADLIGHTS
03084201311/01/200310005284Headlamp assembly lens with hazy or cloudy cosmetic appearance. *ph02/18/2004

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
07/04/20121350001
 While returning on a trip and using the turn signal normally, there were several incidents in which the turn signal sounded like it was working at about twice the normal rate, however there was no indication that the turn lights were coming on. on one particular instance, when this happened, the turn signal got extremely warm to the touch and smoke was observed coming from the switch. there were several subsequent incidents during this trip and on subsequent days, but only the one in which the switch actually smoked (which is why i indicated a fire above). when i called saturn (gm dealership) about this, they mentioned that a similar switch was under recall, but not this one. after having replaced the turn signal switch, i had asked if saturn wanted the defective unit. surprisingly, saturn didn't seem too concerned and asked me to contact the dealership. the dealership, in turn, told me that all they could determine is that there was a problem with the switch and to contact saturn customer service. i am quite certain that if we hadn't corrected the issue (which is difficult to describe) that a more dangerous situation could've been caused, and that this switch design is faulty and may pose a safety (thermal) concern. i have kept the old switch and will gladly provide it to nhtsa if requested to do so. i didn't feel it safe to keep using the old switch, and while the cost was rather minimal to have it replaced, i'm surprised that saturn didn't offer to reimburse me and as i stated previously, didn't request the faulty part to be returned. i have not had any similar incidents since replacing the switch, which certainly corrected it. the part number listed on the old switch is shown as being ar339790736/22679804. in order to not cause the switch to go into the mode described above, it was best to not use the turn signal any more than possible. *tr
06/17/200980100102/01/2005
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 saturn vue. while driving various speeds, all of the instrument panel gauges and daytime running lamps fail; however, the engine continues to operate. the vehicle was taken to a local repair shop and the technician stated that the master control panel was failing. the vehicle is in the process of being repaired; however, the part is currently on backorder with the manufacturer. the manufacturer will be notified. the vehicle is currently not being driven. the failure and current mileages were 80,100. updated 08/27/09 *bf updated 08/31/09.*jb
10/09/200340003
 The headlight and daytime run lights burn out when it rains... instead of finding out the cause of the problem is, the dealer just replaces the bulbs and sends me on my way. the following rainy day, there i am back at the dealer with the same problem. so far this will be the third time, not including the problems with the drivetrain/rear diff that had to be replaced, the dash and cabin rattles that none can seem to fix, and the transmission that once left me stranded at a stop sign. *la
EXTERIOR LIGHTING - HAZARD FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS - SWITCH
03/06/200914002
 Tl*the contact owns a 2003 saturn vue which was purchased in december 2002. she stated that there were numerous failures with the vehicle. while driving approximately 6 mph through a brush-less car wash, water entered into the sun roof housing. on a separate occasion, she also smelled oil burning and the dealer replaced the right inner cv joint boot. the hazards lights failed to operate normally and were repaired twice due to repeat failures. when she engaged the hazard switch, it collapsed into the dashboard console. the service engine soon light illuminated and the dealer stated that the thermostat failed and it was replaced. all repairs were made to the vehicle per the warranty. the rear lateral link assembly recall number 04067001 2002-2004 vue rear suspension recall was also replaced. the driver's side window would not close; however, the driver's side switch was replaced. the fuel gauge indicated the improper level of fuel that was in the fuel tank; although, the fuel sending units were replaced. all of the repairs made to the vehicle have failed more than once. the horn would also operate intermittently on its own. the dealer found a shortage in the body control module and replaced the operating design system which forced the mechanic to reprogram the keys to the vehicle. the valve cover gasket failed a second time when the contact smelled oil burning. there were no related recalls for most of the other failed components. the failure mileage was 14,002 and the current mileage was 70,501.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING - HEADLIGHTS
07/15/20043
 Intermittently while driving at night the headlights failed. this caused poor visibility to the driver. consumer was able to maintain control of the vehicle , and drove it to the dealer for inspection. mechanic determined that the body control module needed to be replaced and replaced it. however, the problem recurred , and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer for inspection. mechanic could not duplicate the problem. *ak
2
 Consumer states that headlights are out of alignment, reducing visibility during night driving. dealer has adjusted twice, but problem still exists.*ak