How to Replace Power Steering Fluid For a 2008 Saturn Vue

You can replace your 2008 Saturn Vue’s power steering fluid by removing the black reservoir cap, draining the old fluid, and refilling it with fluid for American vehicles.
Written by Katherine Duffy
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
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You can replace your 2008 Saturn Vue’s power steering fluid by pumping out the old fluid with a pump mechanism,  then replacing it with brand-new fluid for American cars. In Saturn Vues, the power steering reservoir has a black cap and is on the left side of the engine. 
If your wheel has become more difficult to turn, has started to make screeching noises around corners, or it’s been a few years since you last had your power steering fluid changed, chances you need to change your power steering fluid. 
Up for making this regular maintenance job a DIY
car repair
project? This complete guide from
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We’ll go over how to replace your Vue’s power steering fluid, which brand is best for a Saturn, and signs you need a replacement. While we're at it, we'll show you how to save on
Saturn Vue car insurance costs
.
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How do I replace my 2008 Saturn Vue’s power steering fluid?

Fortunately, it’s pretty straightforward to replace the power steering fluid in a 2008 Saturn Vue. The toughest part is locating the reservoir! 
  • Pop the hood of your Saturn Vue. Make sure you’re parked on level ground and that your parking brake is engaged 
  • Find the power steering fluid reservoir. It’s a little tough to locate in a Saturn Vue. Check for a large black cap that seals off a black reservoir on the left of the engine 
  • Remove the cap and put the pump assembly into the reservoir. Using a shampoo or soap bottle pump will do the trick. Insert the tube into the mechanism, below the fluid level 
  • Pump the old power steering fluid out of the reservoir. Make sure you’re catching the old fluid with a container on the ground below you 
  • Fill the reservoir with new fluid and screw the cap back on 
And the job is complete! It’s really that easy to replace the power steering fluid in your Saturn Vue at home. If you love DIY car fixes, you can take your fluid replacement to the next level by adding in a couple of extra steps:
  • Undo the fluid line
  • Fully drain the system. Turn the steering wheel back and forth to get the last drops of the old fluid from your Vue 
While the job is pretty simple, it’s not for everyone. You can
bring your car to your regular mechanic for this job.
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of doing this job yourself versus getting your mechanic to do it for you. 

Should I change it myself or bring it to a mechanic? 

When it comes down to it, deciding on whether you should bring your car to your mechanic to replace the power steering fluid depends on how comfortable you are with doing this job on your own. 
If you’ve done it before or you’re pretty comfortable with doing regular car maintenance, then you’re better off doing this job from your driveway. You’ll save around $120 by replacing the power steering fluid on your own since the fluid will only cost you $10-$20. 
On the other hand, if you’re not confident that you can do this job correctly or you simply don’t want to get your hands dirty, it’s worth your time and money to get your mechanic to do it for you. The job takes about an hour, and you can drive with peace of mind (and clean hands!). 
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Which power steering fluid is best for a 2008 Saturn Vue? 

There are plenty of great options for power steering fluid for your 2008 Saturn Vue. Our favorite is
Prestone’s power steering fluid
These are our other top choices when it comes to power steering fluid for a Saturn Vue:
Power steering fluid
Amount
Cost
Prestone PSF
12 ounces
$12.99

When do I need to replace my 2012 Honda Odyssey’s power steering fluid?

To keep your power steering system working optimally, aim to change the power steering fluid in your Saturn Vue every three years or 30,000 miles—whichever comes first. Keeping on top of regular maintenance will prevent bigger problems down the line and help your wheel move with ease. 
Sometimes, you’ll have to replace your fluid before three years or 30,000 miles have passed. If you notice any of these symptoms, it might be time to replace the fluid:
  • Strange noises when you turn the wheel (screeching, squeaking, etc.)
  • Difficulty steering
  • Bubbles in your power steering fluid
  • Fluid leakage
  • Color change from clear to yellow
Power steering fluid doesn’t just make driving easier—it also improves the overall health and functionality of your car!  Observe the
maintenance best practices
to keep your Vue running for years down the line.
MORE: How to check and add power steering fluid

How to save money on Saturn insurance

Keeping up with regular power steering fluid maintenance is a great way to keep yourself safe and protected on the roads. But, the best way to ensure your safety while driving is by finding a great insurance policy that fits your needs and your budget. 
Jerry
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Once you download Jerry, just answer a handful of questions that will take you roughly 45 seconds to complete, and you’ll immediately get
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FAQ

Absolutely! Locate the power steering fluid reservoir under the hood, pump out the old fluid with a shampoo bottle pump or something similar, replace the fluid with new power steering fluid for American cars, and remember to screw the cap back on when you’re done.
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