The problem
On certain sedans and wagons, the plastic housing in the rear tail lamp assembly can become distorted if the brake lamps remain on for an extended time.
The risk
This can cause (1) an intermittently inoperative brake/tail lamp bulb or (2) a short circuit that opens a fuse causing inoperative brake lamps (including the center high-mounted stop lamp) or tail lamps. A following driver May not know when the brakes have been applied, and a rear-end crash could occur without prior warning.
The fix
Dealers will install two new tail lamp reinforcing socket adapters and sockets free of charge. The recall began on October 17, 2005. Owners May contact Saturn at 1-800-972-8876.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 05V-245 (05V245000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 05052 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Brake lights |
| Report date | June 2, 2005 |
| Owners notified | October 17, 2005 |
| Vehicles affected | 291,652 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the lights
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 05V-245 repair free?
Yes. Saturn dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install two new tail lamp reinforcing socket adapters and sockets free of charge. The recall began on October 17, 2005. Owners May contact Saturn at 1-800-972-8876.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 291,652 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.