A quick google search seems to indicate replacing the headlight switch/stalk assembly will cure the problem, but none of the sites I found that answer on were technical in nature. Is this the correct fix(FYI I'm 800-miles away from said vehicle at this moment)?
Also, there was some discussion about this being covered by a recall, but again I couldn't find any confirmation online. Anyone here know for sure?
Just checked GM Service Information, no mention of any bulletins, special coverages or recalls regarding such an issue.
electric power steering?
In reply to NickD:
Thanks for checking. I called her local GM dealer back in IL, but the guy manning the phones works in their body shop & had no idea. 
In reply to bentwrench:
I'm not sure, or know if it was an option in '03. From looking up the part on Rockauto it seems there's a difference for automatic headlights, so I'll need to confirm what options it has.
Wow, seeing the issues you have with your 03 is making me think my buddies 02 is a unicorn.
I wish I had something to offer help wise, but so far, his electrical stuff has been in tip top shape. Now, rebuilding the front suspension, exhaust work, floor pan replacement, that I can offer some insight.
In reply to RevRico:
Eh, it has 88k on the original CVT - it's not too long for this world regardless.
I actually had that issue on an 2003 base so it was probably my post. I traced the wiring diagram to figure out why the turn signals didn't work after the shop I took it to in Ohio en route to California said diagnosed the problem as the body control module. The BCU will X out the mileage if it fails so if that hasn't happened its not that.
The headlights and turn signals are on different circuits, but on the same stalk, so if the stalk shorted on the turn signal circuit you can simply yank the fuse (I did) and the headlights will still work. I was also attempting to use the turn signals when it happened so diagnosis was a lot easier using those data points.
I believe I bought an ACDelco part off Amazon to replace it with for something like 35 dollars. I'm not actually aware of any recall on the part.
petegossett wrote: In reply to RevRico: Eh, it has 88k on the original CVT - it's not too long for this world regardless.
Make sure your insurance is paid and fan the flames.
In reply to The0retical:
Thanks for the tips! That's about the price I found it for on Rockauto too. How difficult was it to change?
She had just pulled onto the interstate, so was (hopefully) using her turn signals. I had her pull off at the next exit & check her lights and turn signals. She said they all worked, both front & rear, and she didn't notice any problems.
In reply to petegossett:
It was something like a 10 minute process with basic hand tools in my buddys driveway.
Really you just have to remove plastic trim covers from the column, which is 2 or 4 screws, and it exposes the fasteners for the stalk. Then its just a matter of a single plug and a couple screws.
I remember the OEM part being kinda soft on the turn signals before it shorted. One of the deals where you could bump it to half halfheartedly flash the blinkers but it wouldn't keep them on since you didn't pass the detent.
Other than that all you've got is the wiper stalk on the column. That's the same deal, there's really not much to them as the cruise control modules are on the steering wheel.
If you have the car yet when I get back the states in October I'll mail you the Haynes manual if you want. I really only bought it for the wiring diagram and I got rid of the Vue a few years ago.
In reply to The0retical:
Thanks, I appreciate the offer! Let me know when you're back & if it hasn't imploded by then I'll send you some $$ for it & postage.
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