Saturn Repair: 2003 Saturn VUE AWD, clutch pack, saturn vue

Question
What would cause damage to my rear differential clutches on my AWD Vue and would you expect this to happen on a vehicle with 42K miles?  Also, is it unsafe to continue to operate the vehicle?  

Answer
Kevin,
 Your '03 Vue most likely had a recall on it.  Here's what happened:
 The vent that lets air in and out of the clutch housing would allow water to enter as well.  This water would mix with the gear oil in that clutch housing case and cause the clutch pack to "whine" or "growl" on a sharp turn.  If the recall procedure was never performed on your vehicle, Saturn should pick up the tab.  Regardless, you should take it into your repair facility and insist that they "Warranty Policy" it.  If that doesn't work, call 1-800-7-SATURN and start rattling cages.  That is an expensive part to have to pay for.  Hope this helps.

Chris