2008 Saturn Astra Steering Problems
- Complaints
- 6about this part
- Share
- 4%of 162 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 90,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 6 complaints about the steering of the 2008 Saturn Astra, 4% of the 162 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 90,000 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Vehicle steering became very difficult, nearly unresponsive. Vehicle was dangerous. Electro-mechanical power steering pump failed. Chevrolet/GM dealer is only entity capable/authorized of making repair as it has to be computer programmed. Kbb value of car approximately $4,473. Cost of repair $1,700 (38% of car value).”
NHTSA complaint #10765045, filed 2015-09, 128,000 miles“Original owner of a Saturn Astra 2008 xr with less than 40,000 miles. Car started losing power steering at low speeds (I.e. Turning from a stop, parallel parking, any movement that didn't require actively applying the accelerator such as backing up, slowing to take a curve, etc). Dealer states need to replace electric power steering motor and controller unit gear. Battery is at 35% and also needs replacing. No notice of low battery was shown on the dashboard. …”
NHTSA complaint #10615980, filed 2014-07, 39,500 miles“Problem has occurred twice in four month period. On both occasions the vehicle was in motion going 30-40 MPH. Without warning the assisted power steering ceased operation. In a matter of seconds, the steering wheel became stiff, difficult to turn, and the turning range significantly decreased. No warning lights appeared. On the first occasion, the vehicle was taken to an auto repair shop. No discernible issues were found. The mechanic checked all fuses and found no fault. The mechanic decided to replace a fully functioning fuse, which fixed the issue for approximately three and a half months. …”
NHTSA complaint #11129982, filed 2018-09, 90,000 miles“Lost power steering without any warning it got very stiff i could not steer the car it got electric power steering pump not mechanical. i want online and this vehicle is made by GM / Opel . many people having the same issue .and parts are discontinuned and only available as used or you can get it shipped from Europe.”
NHTSA complaint #11648523, filed 2025-03“The contact owns a 2008 Saturn Astra. The contact stated while at a standstill, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was awaiting a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11387510, filed 2021-01, 170,000 milesRelated service bulletins
- 10245395Nov 6, 2023This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing…
- 10242061Aug 7, 2023This 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.
- 10222777Sep 16, 2022This 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.
- 10178292Jun 5, 2020This technical bulletin provides a procedure to eliminate a power steering noise due to extremely low temperatures.
Steering: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 6 | 4% |
Other parts of the 2008 Saturn Astra
96 complaintsElectrical system
22 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
17 complaintsEngine
8 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
8 complaintsOther or unknown
6 complaintsBody and structure
5 complaintsFuel system
4 complaintsTires
4 complaintsVehicle speed control
4 complaintsWheels
3 complaintsEngine cooling
2 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2008 Saturn Astra
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 29, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology