What are the most common Saturn Astra problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2008 Saturn Astra has 1 documented issue. The documented issue is: Astra 1.8L Z18XER Water Pump / Timing Chain Wear. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Saturn Astra reliable?

The 2008 Saturn Astra has 1 known issue compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Astra 1.8L Z18XER Water Pump / Timing Chain Wear. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Saturn Astra problems?

Repair costs for known Saturn Astra issues range from $1,200 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Astra 1.8L Z18XER Water Pump / Timing Chain Wear, typically costs $1,200-$4,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2008-2009 Saturn Astra Astra 1.8L Z18XER Water Pump / Timing Chain Wear?

2008-2009 Saturn Astra is the Belgian-built Opel Astra H rebadged. The 1.8L Z18XER engine's water pump is driven from the timing chain — pump failure can jam the chain and bend valves. Common at 80,000-130,000 miles. Parts have become scarce in North America since Saturn / Opel w… Repairs typically run $1,200-$4,000. Severity: high.

Saturn · Known Issues

2008 Saturn Astra Problems: 1 Known Issue

2008 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated August 2026

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According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2008 Saturn Astra has 1 documented issue, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Astra 1.8L Z18XER Water Pump / Timing Chain Wear ($1,200-$4,000 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $1,200 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

2008 Saturn Astra Problems: 1 Known Issue

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2008-2009 Saturn Astra: Astra 1.8L Z18XER Water Pump / Timing Chain Wear#

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Saturn Astra problems?

Is the Saturn Astra reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Saturn Astra problems?

What is the 2008-2009 Saturn Astra Astra 1.8L Z18XER Water Pump / Timing Chain Wear?