2008 Saturn VUE explosion

Hmm, a $20 part caused this problem? A TSB that's not made it's way to everyone? You've got to ask, why are you surprised that Saturn cars got discontinued? Sounds like the Chevrolet Cobalt and the $15 ignition switch they didn't want to fix, doesn't it. Is there a pattern here with domestic car manufacturers just concerned about the bottom line, theirs, , and not in your best interests. I would definitely recommend losing this car as quickly as possible. Go find an Asian car.

Bob, I hope you're reading this thread and take note. This is why people don't have complete confidence in American cars, especially ones that are discontinued. And, the myriad of name changes of cars and models in their product line designed to obfuscate the issues and keep consumers guessing about what model has substance. When you have a new and improved model getting introduced every five years or so just to erase the bad image of the previous iteration, that's a sign that there's a glaring problem. Just look at the Ford Aerostar, Windstar and Freestar etc. and the ever changing models in the Dodge line of cars! Even your MKZ was previously called the Zephyr. Do you see where I'm going here? The Saturn cars were not well regarded and cheaply made as well. They also were discontinued for a reason. Detroit just makes these missteps and screws thing up for their own reputation. So, I hope that geenez will take note here as well and look for an Asian car to replace this POS.

Tom, I understand, didn't mean to offend anyone. It's just amazing to me that the GM fiasco with the Cobalt, Corvair ( some 50 years ago ), Saturn, Edsel, etc. and the almost burn down of the auto industry save a government bailout which was a good idea. I guess I really have a problem with car manufacturers that just keep changing the names of their respective models just to run and hide from previous problem cars and issue a new version instead of building a decent car in the first place or correcting issues. Name a Dodge or Chrysler car today that has been around as long as the Toyota Camry, Corolla or Honda Civic or Accord, Subaru Legacy, Outback, etc. You can't. I have to say the Ford Thunderbird to its credit was around 45 years and it was a very decent car. So, the car's that have maintained a name image are much better and given more attention to detail. That's all.

Look, I've had several American cars, and my Ford Thunderbird and Oldsmobile Cutlass were pretty good cars, but, my Asian cars leave them in the dust. Same goes for the German cars I've had, they were problem cars. I'll never again consider a VW.

Well that is scary! I own a Saturn Vue XR 2008 and had my transmission checked by the GM dealership. They assured me my transmission has no wave plate problems. In my opinion they should of changed the defective wave plates. Many times I've heard it mostly begins with not being able to back up anymore with vehicle. Thanks for sharing your experience, because now I know what to not do.

@ Mark,Well there are no perfect cars out there anywhere. Even your beloved Subarus consume oil and require engine replacements. The machine is not perfect. Saturn was supposed to be a lower priced vehicle for the masses, but it turned into another piece of crap GM product. I hope the OP gets his Saturn problem resolved, but a 2008 Saturn out of warranty that needs an engine will be a big problem. It would have been better if it had burned to the ground cause then the insurance company would have settled on it.

I received a letter from GM stating that if the wave plates fail they will repair my transmission at their cost.