Buy Saturn Aura Power Steering Pumps

The Saturn Aura power steering pump-also called a steering‑assist pump, hydraulic steering pump, or simply "PS pump"-pressurizes fluid so the steering rack can turn easily. V‑6 Auras (2007‑2009) use a belt‑driven hydraulic pump; four‑cylinder and later models switched to electric assist. Understanding how the pump works, which fluid it needs, the signs it's failing, and GM's steering‑assist recalls will help you pick the right replacement and keep the sedan safe, quiet, and easy to steer. (Wikipedia, Wikipedia)

The pump spins off the serpentine belt, pulling fluid from the reservoir and pushing it (1,200‑1,500 psi) into the steering gear. When you turn the wheel, hydraulic pressure multiplies your effort, so even parking‑lot maneuvers feel light. If the pump stops or fluid foams, the system reverts to heavy manual steering-but it still works mechanically for safety. (, How a Car Works)

• Platform - GM Epsilon midsize sedan, built 2007‑2010. (Wikipedia)
• Engine families using a hydraulic pump - 3.5 L V‑6 (RPO LZ4/351 hp) and 3.6 L V‑6 (RPO LY7/252 hp).
• Pump drive - 6‑rib serpentine belt, automatic tensioner; check belt for cracks every 60 k mi. (How a Car Works)
• Common pump casting numbers - GM # 19168825 (3.5 L), GM # 19319344 (3.6 L). Source: GM Service Parts catalog.

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• Recommended fluid: Any high‑quality GM‑approved hydraulic power steering fluid or Dexron‑VI ATF works in a pinch, as confirmed by owner‑manual guides and independent tech sites (StartMyCar guide) .
• Capacity: Roughly 1 qt after a full drain of pump and rack (top off to "HOT" mark). Owner‑manual reservoir diagrams show the fill cap on the passenger side engine bay. (ManualsLib)
• Service interval: GM does not list a mileage change, but bleeding or flushing every 60 k mi keeps seals soft and prevents vane scoring. DIY bleeding steps (lock‑to‑lock, wheels raised) are outlined by How‑a‑Car‑Works. (How a Car Works)

1. Plan ahead - A shop quote averages $525‑$599 for parts and labor (RepairPal) .
2. Tools needed - 3/8" drive metric sockets, line wrenches, pulley puller/installer, catch pan, torque wrench (pump bolts ~22 lb‑ft).
3. Air purge - After install, fill, jack front wheels, and steer slowly lock‑to‑lock 10× with engine off, then 10× running to clear bubbles. (How a Car Works)
4. Inspect hoses & belt - A clogged return hose or slipping belt can mimic pump failure. (Reddit)

• Direct fit - 2007‑2009 Aura XE & XR V‑6 trims.
• Shared pump family - 2006‑2012 Chevy Malibu and 2005‑2010 Pontiac G6 use the same casting, widening parts availability. (GM Authority, GM Authority)

• New O‑rings & Viton seals resist the high‑heat zone behind the radiator better than factory Buna rubber.
• Noise‑dampening reservoir redesign on late‑production pumps reduces whirl at idle. (Noted in GM PI0671A TSB) (CarComplaints.com)
• Synthetic fluid lowers operating temp and quiets the pump, but always meet GM spec. (StartMyCar)

• Recall 14V153 replaced torque‑sensor assemblies and motor‑controller units after sudden electric‑assist loss in 2008 Auras (NHTSA bulletin PDF) .
• GM later added 1.3 million vehicles-including Aura-to a broader power‑steering campaign (Time news report) .
• Multiple TSBs address cold‑weather pump noise, reservoir leaks, and hose seepage (e.g., TSB 120232002B). (CarComplaints.com)

Used steering fluid contains heavy metals and should never be poured down drains. The EPA motor‑vehicle‑waste guide classifies it as a potential groundwater contaminant and mandates sealed‑container disposal at recycling centers. (US EPA)

• Pulley puller/installer kit
• Line wrench set
• Low‑profile drip pan
• Torque wrench (inch‑lb and ft‑lb)
• Funnel with mesh screen
• Dexron‑VI or GM‑spec steering fluid

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(RepairPal nationwide averages) (RepairPal.com)

Q: What fluid does the Saturn Aura steering pump use?
A: GM‑approved hydraulic power‑steering fluid; Dexron‑VI ATF is acceptable in an emergency but flush later. (StartMyCar)

Q: How can I tell if my pump is bad or my belt is just loose?
A: A loose belt slips and squeals only when you first steer; a failing pump whines constantly and the wheel feels heavy even with a tight belt. (Reddit, How a Car Works)

Q: Is it safe to drive when the pump is leaking?
A: You can steer, but once fluid runs low the system may seize and overheat, so top off and repair promptly. (RepairPal.com)

Q: Did GM ever recall the hydraulic pump itself?
A: No; recalls focused on electric‑assist components and transmission‑cable issues, not the pump. (GM Authority)

Q: Why does the pump whine after installation?
A: Air is trapped. Bleed the system lock‑to‑lock with wheels raised until bubbles stop. (How a Car Works)

Q: Will a pump from a Malibu or G6 fit my Aura?
A: Yes-3.5 L and 3.6 L Malibu/G6 pumps share casting and pressure specs with Aura V‑6 models. (GM Authority)

Q: How long does a new pump last?
A: With clean fluid and proper belt tension, pumps routinely exceed 100 k miles. (RepairPal.com)

Q: Can I upgrade to electric power steering?
A: Converting would require a new steering column, wiring, and ECU-cost‑prohibitive versus replacing the hydraulic pump.

Q: What torque specs should I use on the pressure hose?
A: GM lists 22 lb‑ft (30 N·m) for banjo bolt connections; overtightening can crush the copper washers.

Q: How do I dispose of old fluid responsibly?
A: Seal it in a labeled container and take it to a local automotive‑fluid recycler; never pour it down drains. (US EPA)

Q: Does cold weather affect pump life?
A: Yes-sub‑zero starts thicken fluid, stressing the pump; GM issued a TSB on cold‑start pump noise and recommends warming the car before sharp turns. (CarComplaints.com)

Keeping the Saturn Aura's steering‑assist pump healthy is mostly about clean fluid, leak‑free hoses, and listening for early whines. Replacing a tired pump restores light, confident steering and guards against sudden assist loss.