Popping/Clunking Noise From Steering Column

CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2008 Aura’s issues with brakes, such as worn out rotors, isn’t as severe as the prior model year, but let’s just not start awarding them any brake awards just yet. Does that even exist? “The Brakies”?

One thing the 2008 does share with the 2007 is a recall of a busted gear shifter cable which can make it look like your car is in park, when the transmission is still engaged. You can only imagine what kind of fun that causes.

6.0

fairly significant
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
65,050 miles
Total Complaints:
4 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (2 reports)
  2. replace entire midshaft (1 reports)
  3. replace steering shaft (1 reports)
2008 Saturn Aura steering problems

steering problem

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2008 Saturn Aura Owner Comments

problem #4

Jul 232014

Aura XE 3.5L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 68,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

This is the second steering issue that I have had with my 2008 Aura. In October of 2013, I had to have the power steering gear replaced at 57,000. Now, less than a year later, at 68,000, I'm having the intermediate steering shaft replaced.

- jerry011, Bella Vista, AR, US

Comment Disabled Add Complaint
problem #3

Jun 012012

Aura

  • Automatic transmission
  • 60,000 miles

This is a major problem if I drive in the mountains. The whole steering column will shake coming down hills. I've had the tires checked and brakes checked and they are fine. It seems to be in the steering column only. The clunking sound is most noticeable when turning.

I've noticed many complaints regarding the clunking sound in GM and Saturn cars. I feel that there should be a recall. I've been told that it is not a safety issue. I don't feel safe driving this car in the mountains and will not. I've always loved Saturns, in fact, I owned 3. My understanding is that this is a GM issue so I will not be buying a GM car in the future.

Update from Sep 30, 2014: The car now shakes anytime I apply the brakes not just when driving down hills.

- Carmen B., Lafayette, CO, US

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problem #2

Jan 312012

Aura

  • Automatic transmission
  • 61,100 miles

Please pressure the issue of getting any steering wheel problems fixed. Can't go into details, but let's just say, I think my car is probably totaled, after last night, and the steering wheel came completely off.

- momshell20, Whitmire, SC, US

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problem #1

Sep 232011

Aura XE 2.4L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 71,000 miles

When I make stops or turns I notice the clunking/popping noise the most, I took the car to a local repair shop. They told me it was the "midshaft" part that connects the steering wheel to the parts that turn your wheels. There's a knuckle/joint that makes the popping sound. I was told that it is not a safety hazard and its not harmful in any way, just an annoying noise. I hear its really common in GM vehicles (mainly cars).

- Heather G., Festus, MO, US

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