1997 SATURN SL
3 recalls, 286 complaints - 28 TSBs
09E012000 Apr 7, 2009
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect Description
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES... Read more
Consequence
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
97V155000 Sep 12, 1997
SEATS
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH SUSPECT COLD WELDS ON THE RIGHT SIDE IN THE TUNNEL AREA OF THE FLOOR PAN. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ANCHORAGE."
Consequence
IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPAIR THESE VEHICLES.
97V138000 Aug 29, 1997
STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL STEERING. THE PINION BEARING CAGE IN THE STEERING GEAR CAN SEPARATE UNDER HIGH STEERING SYSTEM LOAD CONDITIONS, SUCH AS PARKING LOT OR SIMILAR LOW SPEED MANEUVERS.
Consequence
THIS COULD RESULT IN THE PINION GEAR DISENGAGING FROM THE RACK CAUSING A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE MANUAL STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY.
Complaint Statistics
286 total complaints
38 crashes 10 fires 37 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 17 |
| AIR BAGS:FRONTAL | 14 |
| TIRES | 13 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 12 |
| SEATS | 12 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS | 12 |
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 11 |
| SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR | 10 |
| POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION | 9 |
| VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL | 9 |
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
May 16, 2016
Incident date: May 10, 2016
WHILE DRIVING (VEHICLE IN MOTION) THE VEHICLE SHUTS DOWN COMPLETELY. AT TIMES WHEN THE KEY IS TURNED IN THE IGNITION SWITCH NOTHING HAPPENS; NO ELECTRICAL POWER BUT BATTERY IS FINE AND EVERYTHING ELSE CHECKS OUT OK EXCEPT THE IGNITION SWITCH. IT HAS ALL THE CHARACTERISTICS OF GM VEHICLES THAT EXPERI... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
Nov 12, 2014
Incident date: Jul 9, 2009
SEVERE RUST OUT OF THE SUSPENSION SUB-FRAME (ENGINE CRADLE) ALONG THE LEFT SIDE, PARTICULARLY AT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM MOUNT POCKET. THIS CONDITION WAS CAUGHT BEFORE THE LEFT FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM BROKE LOOSE DUE TO THE RUSTED SUB-FRAME. RUST CONDITION WAS CONFINED TO THE LEFT SIDE OF THE SUB-FRA... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Nov 12, 2014
Incident date: Jul 9, 2009
SEVERE RUST OUT OF THE SUSPENSION SUB-FRAME (ENGINE CRADLE) ALONG THE LEFT SIDE, PARTICULARLY AT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM MOUNT POCKET. THIS CONDITION WAS CAUGHT BEFORE THE LEFT FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM BROKE LOOSE DUE TO THE RUSTED SUB-FRAME. RUST CONDITION WAS CONFINED TO THE LEFT SIDE OF THE SUB-FRA... Read more
SUSPENSION
Nov 12, 2014
Incident date: Jul 9, 2009
SEVERE RUST OUT OF THE SUSPENSION SUB-FRAME (ENGINE CRADLE) ALONG THE LEFT SIDE, PARTICULARLY AT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM MOUNT POCKET. THIS CONDITION WAS CAUGHT BEFORE THE LEFT FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM BROKE LOOSE DUE TO THE RUSTED SUB-FRAME. RUST CONDITION WAS CONFINED TO THE LEFT SIDE OF THE SUB-FRA... Read more
AIR BAGS
Aug 14, 2014
Incident date: Jul 23, 2014
ON JULY 23, 2014 APPROXIMATELY 6:35P.M. I WAS ON MY WAY TO CHURCH ALONG WITH THREE OTHER PASSENGERS. MY SISTER WAS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT AND MY GRANDSON AND THE LADY THAT LIVE WITH ME WAS IN THE BACK SEAT. WITHOUT WARNING THERE WAS A BOOM OR EXPLOSION THAT CAUSE ME TO BRIEFLY LOSE CONTROL OF THE CA... Read more
2 injured
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
Jun 17, 2014
Incident date: May 1, 2013
DURING OIL CHANGE DISCOVERED THAT FRONT SUBFRAME WAS RUSTED THROUGH AT CONTROL ARM ATTACHMENT POINT, DRIVERS SIDE. CAR WAS REMOVED FROM SERVICE AS THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AFFECTING SUSPENSION AND STEERING. TRIED TO FIND A USED SUBFRAME BUT ALL IN LOCAL AUTO PARTS RECYCLERS WERE JUST AS BADLY ... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
Jun 17, 2014
Incident date: May 1, 2013
DURING OIL CHANGE DISCOVERED THAT FRONT SUBFRAME WAS RUSTED THROUGH AT CONTROL ARM ATTACHMENT POINT, DRIVERS SIDE. CAR WAS REMOVED FROM SERVICE AS THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AFFECTING SUSPENSION AND STEERING. TRIED TO FIND A USED SUBFRAME BUT ALL IN LOCAL AUTO PARTS RECYCLERS WERE JUST AS BADLY ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jun 17, 2014
Incident date: May 1, 2013
DURING OIL CHANGE DISCOVERED THAT FRONT SUBFRAME WAS RUSTED THROUGH AT CONTROL ARM ATTACHMENT POINT, DRIVERS SIDE. CAR WAS REMOVED FROM SERVICE AS THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AFFECTING SUSPENSION AND STEERING. TRIED TO FIND A USED SUBFRAME BUT ALL IN LOCAL AUTO PARTS RECYCLERS WERE JUST AS BADLY ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jun 17, 2014
Incident date: May 1, 2013
DURING OIL CHANGE DISCOVERED THAT FRONT SUBFRAME WAS RUSTED THROUGH AT CONTROL ARM ATTACHMENT POINT, DRIVERS SIDE. CAR WAS REMOVED FROM SERVICE AS THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AFFECTING SUSPENSION AND STEERING. TRIED TO FIND A USED SUBFRAME BUT ALL IN LOCAL AUTO PARTS RECYCLERS WERE JUST AS BADLY ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Mar 24, 2014
Incident date: Mar 24, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 SATURN SL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY FELL OUT OF THE IGNITION AND THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO RUN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS FOUND THAT THE IGNITION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Oct 28, 2012
Incident date: Oct 22, 2012
WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL IN THE OFF POSITION, THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED AND WENT TO FULL THROTTLE. WHEN THE CLUTCH PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED THE CRUISE CONTROL DIS-ENGAGED. THIS HAPPENED FIVE TIMES, THE CRUISE CONTROL UNIT HAS SINCE BEEN DISABLED. *TR
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Jun 28, 2012
Incident date: Jun 24, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 SATURN SL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WAS REVERSING FROM A RESIDENTIAL DRIVEWAY WHEN HE SHIFTED TO FIRST GEAR AND THE SHIFTER CABLE BECAME DETACHED FROM THE SHIFTER LEVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER STATED THEY HAD TO REPLACE TWO SHIFTER CABLES. THE V... Read more
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Sep 16, 2009
Incident date: Sep 16, 2009
1997 SATURN SL, 4 DOOR SEDAN, MANUAL TRANSAXLE, 143000 MILES AT A PARKING LOT: SHIFTER CABLE PLASTIC BUSHING BROKE LOCKING MY TRANSAXLE IN REVERSE. PROBLEM FIXED WITH AN AFTERMARKET KIT SOLD BY NAPA AUTO STORES. *TR
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Aug 25, 2009
Incident date: Aug 12, 2009
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 SATURN SL1. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN ATTEMPTING TO SHIFT FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR THE SHIFT LEVER CABLE FRACTURED; THUS DISABLING THE VEHICLE FROM SHIFTING INTO 3RD GEAR. GEAR FAILURE WHILE DRIVING INCREASES THE RISK FOR VEHICLE CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALERS... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
Aug 14, 2009
Incident date: Jul 8, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 SATURN SL2. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUBFRAME ROTTED OUT ALONG THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE, MAINLY AT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM POCKET. THE DEALER REPLACED THE SUBFRAME AT THE COST OF $1,179. THE MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT PROVIDE REIMBURSEMENT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS O... Read more
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Jun 15, 2009
Incident date: Jun 6, 2009
DRIVING ALONG COMMUNITY ROAD AND MANUAL SHIFT LINKAGE BECAME INOPERATIVE. FAILURE WAS TOTAL, SHIFTING WAS IMPOSSIBLE, WAS LUCKY TO BE ABLE TO GET TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. SATURN USED A PLASTIC PUSH-IN BUTTON TO RETAIN THE SHIFT MECHANISM TO THE EYELET OF THE SHIFT CABLE........A PLASTIC BUSHING FO... Read more
STRUCTURE
Sep 17, 2008
Incident date: Sep 13, 1997
ON 13SEP2008, AT APPROXIMATELY 1400HRS I WAS OPERATING MY 1997 SATURN SL2 (MANUAL) AT LOW SPEED IN MY DRIVEWAY; WHEN THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ENGAGE IN GEAR. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION, I DISCOVERED THAT MY SHIFTING CABLE LINKAGE HAD BECOME DISENGAGED (SPECIFICALLY THE SHIFTING ROD AND THE PLASTIC BAL... Read more
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Sep 17, 2008
Incident date: Sep 13, 1997
ON 13SEP2008, AT APPROXIMATELY 1400HRS I WAS OPERATING MY 1997 SATURN SL2 (MANUAL) AT LOW SPEED IN MY DRIVEWAY; WHEN THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ENGAGE IN GEAR. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION, I DISCOVERED THAT MY SHIFTING CABLE LINKAGE HAD BECOME DISENGAGED (SPECIFICALLY THE SHIFTING ROD AND THE PLASTIC BAL... Read more
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:FLOOR SHIFT ASSEMBLY
Apr 8, 2008
Incident date: Apr 8, 2008
I RECENTLY PURCHASED A 1997 SL1 AND ON THE 3RD DAY OF OWNING IT THE SHIFTER BROKE CAUSING IT TO GO LIMP. AT THE TIME I WAS ON THE 101 FREEWAY STUCK IN TRAFFIC WITH MY THREE CHILDREN. I CALLED MY MECHANIC AND HE TOWED IT TO HIS SHOP FOR REPAIRS. AFTER MAKING THE NECESSARY REPAIR, HE DID A ROUTINE MAI... Read more
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:FLOOR SHIFT ASSEMBLY
Apr 8, 2008
Incident date: Apr 8, 2008
I RECENTLY PURCHASED A 1997 SL1 AND ON THE 3RD DAY OF OWNING IT THE SHIFTER BROKE CAUSING IT TO GO LIMP. AT THE TIME I WAS ON THE 101 FREEWAY STUCK IN TRAFFIC WITH MY THREE CHILDREN. I CALLED MY MECHANIC AND HE TOWED IT TO HIS SHOP FOR REPAIRS. AFTER MAKING THE NECESSARY REPAIR, HE DID A ROUTINE MAI... Read more
1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Dec 13, 2007
Incident date: Apr 21, 2005
I WAS PARKED AT A SHOPPING CENTER, WHEN I TURNED MY CAR ON, IT WOULD NOT START. AFTER TRYING A COUPLE OF TIMES,IT MADE A POP SOUND AND SMOKE FLOODED INSIDE THE CAR. I TURNED OFF THE KEY, TOOK IT TO A DEALER AND THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. THE WINDOWS WOULD NOT WORK AS WELL. I REPLACE... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Aug 16, 2007
Incident date: Aug 15, 2007
STARTED MY CAR, IT RAN A FEW SECONDS, THEN DIED. BEFORE I COULD RESTART IT, SMOKE STARTED POURING OUT OF THE STEERING COLUMN AND I SMELLED AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. I DIDN'T START IT AGAIN BUT FOUND HELP TO DISCONNECT MY BATTERY. IT'S ON IT'S WAY TO THE NEARBY SATURN DEALER WHO REFUSES TO PROVIDE ME WI... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Aug 6, 2007
Incident date: Aug 6, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 SATURN SL2. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE RISING FROM THE HOOD. HE THEN PULLED OVER AS THE SMOKE TURNED INTO FLAMES. AFTER HE EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE, HE RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND OIL SPRAYED OUT FROM THE CYLINDER HEAD. THE DEALER HAS NOT INSPECTED THE ... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN
Nov 30, 2006
Incident date: Nov 30, 2006
I PURCHASED A USED 1997 SATURN SL IN 2005. WHEN I NEGOTIATED TO PURCHASE THE VEHICLE THE HORN WAS NOT WORKING. THE USED CAR DEALER REPLACED A FUSE. THE HORN THEN WORKED INTERMITTENTLY IF THE HORN BUTTON WAS PUSHED JUST SO. WITHIN A WEEK IT FAILED TO WORK AT ALL. I CONTACTED SATURN (VIA THE INTER... Read more
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
Apr 6, 2006
Incident date: Mar 10, 2006
THE FRONT SIDE PASSENGER SEAT/SHOULDER BELT SYSTEM WOULD NOT RETRACT OR RELEASE ON MY 1997 SATURN 4-DOOR SEDAN. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT THE RETRACTOR HAD "FROZEN" & I NEEDED A WHOLE NEW SEAT BELT REPLACEMENT. ALTHOUGH THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL OF THE '97 SATURN SEAT BELTS FOR RETRACTOR DOING THE... Read more
PARKING BRAKE
Mar 31, 2006
Incident date: Mar 27, 2006
I HAVE A 1997 SATURN SL2. THE "BUTTON" ON MY PARKING BRAKE HANDLE POPPED OFF THE OTHER DAY (03/27/2006), RELEASING MY PARKING BRAKE. LUCKILY I WAS NOT ON A STEEP HILL AND THE TRANSMISSION WAS IN GEAR, OTHERWISE THE CAR WOULD HAVE ROLLED AWAY. ITS HARD TO BELIEVE THAT SUCH A TINY PIECE OF "PLASTIC... Read more
AIR BAGS
Feb 10, 2006
Incident date: Feb 9, 2006
DRIVER WENT OVER A SPEED BUMP WHILE TURNING INTO A PARKING SPACE AND HIT THE PARKING CURB JUST SLIGHTLY WHILE BRAKING. BOTH DRIVER & PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. *NM
1 injured
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Jan 15, 2006
Incident date: Nov 8, 2001
A EXTREME PROBLEM WITH OIL CONSUMPTION SINCE THE TIME OF OWNERSHIP OF THE VEHICLE AND THE PROBLEM IS GETTING WORSE WITH EVERY MILE DRIVEN. I AM AT THE POINT NOW OF PUTTING/ADDING 2-3 QUARTS OF OIL EVERY 300-400 MILES. ENGINE FREEZE IS NOW ON THE HORIZON DUE TO SLUDGE BUILD-UP. AND I'VE BEEN TOLD THI... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
Jan 11, 2006
Incident date: Jan 9, 2006
IGNITION SWITCH FAILED TO START CAR. AFTER A FEW TRIES, THE CAR FINALLY STARTED ONLY TO HAVE MOUNDS OF SMOKE ROLLING OUT FROM UNDER THE DASH. AFTER TURNING THE VEHICLE OFF, THE SWITCH WORKED INTERMITTENTLY. WE REMOVED DASH COVERS AND IGNITION CYLINDER LOCK, AND LOWERED THE STEERING WHEEL TO FIND ... Read more
Fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Dec 23, 2005
Incident date: Dec 16, 2005
DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP. THEY FOUND THAT IT WAS THE CAM SHAFT SENSOR THAT WAS DEFECTIVE. NO REPAIRS WERE MADE.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Nov 29, 2005
Incident date: Nov 28, 2005
WHEN TURNING THE SWITCH TO START THE ENGINE, THE STARTER MOTOR STOPPED AN SMOKE STARTED COMING FROM THE DASHBOARD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE IT DIAGNOSED THAT THE SWITCH HAD SHORTED OUT. ANOTHER COMPONENT FAILURE RESULTED FROM THE SHORTENING OF THE SWITCH. THE IGNITION CYLIN... Read more
Fire
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Oct 16, 2005
Incident date: Oct 13, 2005
MY CAR WAS BACKED INTO IN AN ACCIDENT WHICH PUSHED THE FROND END BACK INTO THE RADIATOR SUPPORT AND BUCKLED THE HOOD. THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME STOPPED AS WE WERE GOING DOWN THE STREET AT ABOUT 25 MPH, THEN REVERSED AT TOP SPEED INTO MY FRONT END. NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED. *NM
Crash
1 injured
CHILD SEAT:BASE
Jun 29, 2005
Incident date: Jun 28, 2005
THE REAR ANCHOR ON THE CAR SEAT BASE SLIPPED OUT OF ITS POSITION. *JB THE CARRIER HAD GOTTEN STUCK AND WAS REMOVED. *SC 8JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Apr 26, 2005
Incident date: Apr 21, 2005
HEAD GASKET BLEW AT 68,00 MILES IN MY 1997 SATURN SL1. SATURN CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLD ME IT WAS NOT DUE TO ANY NEGLIGENCE ON MY PART, AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO EXPLAIN THE REASON FOR THIS DEFECT.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
Apr 25, 2005
Incident date: Dec 2, 2004
1997 SATURN SL2. STARTED ENGINE, IT RAN A FEW SECONDS, THEN STOPPED WITH ELECTRICAL SMELLING SMOKE FLOWING FROM UNDER DASHBOARD INTO CAR. AFTER IT STOPPED, IT COULD STILL BE CRANKED OVER BUT WOULD NOT FIRE AND RUN. WE GOT OUT OF THE CAR AND PUSHED IT INTO OUR GARAGE, WHERE IT STILL SITS.*AK
Fire
SEAT BELTS
Apr 13, 2005
Incident date: Feb 15, 2005
THE CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT THE FRONT SEAT BELT PROBLEM. THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NOT RETRACT AFTER USE. THE PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NOT EXTEND OUT FOR USE. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE REPAIR WILL COST $900.00. *AK *SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
Mar 29, 2005
Incident date: Mar 26, 2005
NO PRIOR INDICATION OF A FAULT. ON MARCH 26, 2005 MY WIFE WENT TO START THE CAR AND NOT ONLY WOULD IT NOT START, BUT SMOKE STARTED COMING UP FROM THE DASHBOARD. UPON HAVING IT TOWED TO A SATURN DEALER, WE WERE TOLD THAT THE IGINITION SWITCH HAD FAILED AND HAD BURNT OUT THE WIRING HARNESS. THIS CAR H... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Mar 29, 2005
Incident date: Mar 26, 2005
NO PRIOR INDICATION OF A FAULT. ON MARCH 26, 2005 MY WIFE WENT TO START THE CAR AND NOT ONLY WOULD IT NOT START, BUT SMOKE STARTED COMING UP FROM THE DASHBOARD. UPON HAVING IT TOWED TO A SATURN DEALER, WE WERE TOLD THAT THE IGINITION SWITCH HAD FAILED AND HAD BURNT OUT THE WIRING HARNESS. THIS CAR H... Read more
Fire
TIRES
Dec 17, 2004
Incident date: Nov 29, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE CONSUMER LOST STEERING CONTROL. THIS CAUSED THE CONSUMER TO HIT A TREE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION. *JB. DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES. *AK
Crash
1 injured
STEERING
Dec 17, 2004
Incident date: Nov 29, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE CONSUMER LOST STEERING CONTROL. THIS CAUSED THE CONSUMER TO HIT A TREE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION. *JB. DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES. *AK
Crash
1 injured
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Nov 1, 2004
Incident date: Oct 1, 2004
DEFECTIVE ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD ASSEMBLY, ENGINE RUNS HOT & OIL MIXED WITH COOLANT IN ENGINE. *BF THE CONSUMER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE DEFECTS WHEN PURCHASING THE VEHICLE. NO RECALL FOR CONSUMER PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE. *TC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Oct 7, 2004
Incident date: Aug 13, 2004
DEFECT DETAILS: DESIGN FLAW IN THE ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD ASSEMBLY CAUSES CRACKS IN THE CYLINDER HEAD. ALLOWS MOTOR OIL TO LEAK INTO THE COOLING SYSTEM/RADIATOR MIXING WITH ENGINE COOLANT IN THE ENGINE COOLANT RECOVERY RESERVOIR. MAKES THE CAR RUN HOT, RESULT IN OVERHEATING WITH POTENTIAL TO RESULT IN... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Aug 12, 2004
Incident date: Jul 25, 2004
I HAVE A 1997 SATURN SL2. IT HAS APX 78K MILES. MY CAR HAS BEEN GOING THRU ALOT OF OIL. I TOOK IT IN TO THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT THE PROBLEM HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE MOTOR AND WAS GOING TO COST APX 4K TO FIX.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
Aug 8, 2004
Incident date: Jul 1, 2002
EVERY FEW MONTHS SINCE I'VE HAD MY CAR, FOR NO APPARENT REASON, IT WILL START, BUT WILL IDLE LOW. IF I TRY TO PUT IT IN GEAR, IT WILL STALL. IF I TRY TO RESTART IT AND GIVE IT GAS IT WILL IMEDIATELY CUT OFF. I'VE HAD IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC NUMEROUS TIMES AND NO ONE CAN DUPLIC... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Jul 27, 2004
Incident date: Jun 7, 1997
I BOUGHT A NEW 1997 SATURN , PAID CASH AND 2 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASE, I HAD BRAKE PROBLEMS. PUT BRAKES ON, COULD NOT STOP THE CAR (6/7/97). SATURN DID NOTHING REGARDING THIS. THEY SAID I WAS NOT USE TO THE BRAKES. TAPPED THE BACK OF A VAN. 2.) HAD GRAND CHILD IN CAR, BACKING INTO GARAGE BRAKES D... Read more
Crash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
Apr 1, 2004
Incident date: Mar 28, 2004
WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE SMOKE WAS COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE DASHBOARD. DEALER STATED WIRING HARNESS MELTED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE BECAME INOPERATIVE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
Feb 10, 2004
Incident date: Oct 16, 2003
WE EXPERIENCED A DASHBOARD FIRE IN OUR 1997 SATURN SL1 IN THE FALL OF 2003. MY WIFE TURNED THE KEY, STARTED THE CAR, SHIFTED TO REVERSE, AND BEGAN BACKING UP WHEN THE ENGINE QUIT, THE CAR JOLTED TO A STOP, AND THE INTERIOR IMMEDIATELY FILLED WITH ACRID SMOKE. THE KNOXVILLE SATURN DEALER REPLACED THE... Read more
Fire
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
Feb 10, 2004
Incident date: Feb 5, 2004
DRIVER'S SIDE AND PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT BELTS LOCKED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
Jan 25, 2004
Incident date: Jan 24, 2004
WHILE DRIVING AT APP. 45 MPH ON A CITY ROAD THERE WAS A LOUD CLUNKING SOUND IN THE ENGINE FOLLOWED BY A CONTINUOUS RATTLE. I PULLED OFF THE ROAD AND TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE. THE SERPENTINE BELT HAD COME OFF THE PULLEY BY 3/4 INCH. I PROCEEDED TO GET THE BELT SO THAT IT WOULD NOT WORK ITSELF OFF. ... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Dec 5, 2003
Incident date: Nov 8, 2003
WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH IN FIRST GEAR TRANSMISSION SHIFTED TO FOURTH GEAR WITHOUT WARNING, AND CONSUMER TEMPORARILY LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. CONSUMER SHIFTED VEHICLE TO NEUTRAL, THEN BACK TO FIRST GEAR TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. DEALERSHIP MECHANIC TRIED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE, BUT WAS U... Read more
2 injured
Showing 50 of 286 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy, 1997 SATURN SL
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.9L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 21.0 | 31.0 | 25.0 | Regular | $2,500 |
| 1.9L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 23.0 | 33.0 | 27.0 | Regular | $2,300 |
| 1.9L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 23.0 | 33.0 | 27.0 | Regular | $2,300 |
| 1.9L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 24.0 | 36.0 | 28.0 | Regular | $2,200 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Compact Cars)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins, 1997 SATURN SL
28 manufacturer communications from 17 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 350000 EQUIPMENT | 5 |
| 353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC. | 4 |
| 353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES | 3 |
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 3 |
| 138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM | 2 |
| 118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE | 2 |
| 070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 2 |
| 355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL | 1 |
98-T-11B
Mar 10, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
This service bulletin revision provides a repair procedure to Remove Debris from Evaporator Case, Disinfect evaporator or Apply Cooling coil coating and install blower motor control module to correct a customer concern of A/C Odor at start-
96-T-35D
Mar 10, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
This service bulletin revision provides a repair procedure to Remove Debris from Evaporator Case, Disinfect evaporator or Apply Cooling coil coating and install blower motor control module to correct a customer concern of A/C Odor at start-
96-T-35D
Mar 10, 2023
138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
This service bulletin revision provides a repair procedure to Remove Debris from Evaporator Case, Disinfect evaporator or Apply Cooling coil coating and install blower motor control module to correct a customer concern of A/C Odor at start-
96-T-35D
Mar 10, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This service bulletin revision provides a repair procedure to Remove Debris from Evaporator Case, Disinfect evaporator or Apply Cooling coil coating and install blower motor control module to correct a customer concern of A/C Odor at start-
98-T-11B
Mar 10, 2023
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This service bulletin revision provides a repair procedure to Remove Debris from Evaporator Case, Disinfect evaporator or Apply Cooling coil coating and install blower motor control module to correct a customer concern of A/C Odor at start-
98-T-11B
Mar 10, 2023
138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
This service bulletin revision provides a repair procedure to Remove Debris from Evaporator Case, Disinfect evaporator or Apply Cooling coil coating and install blower motor control module to correct a customer concern of A/C Odor at start-
PIP4723D
Jan 31, 2020
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and
PIC4696E
Nov 22, 2019
353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock ce
PIC4696E
Nov 22, 2019
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock ce
PIC4696D
Sep 5, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock ce
PIC4696C
May 31, 2018
350000 EQUIPMENT
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock c
PIC4696C
May 31, 2018
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock c
PIC4696C
May 31, 2018
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco Theft Lock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock c
PIP4723C
Sep 20, 2017
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and
PIP4723C
Sep 20, 2017
199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and
PIP4723C
Sep 20, 2017
350000 EQUIPMENT
This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and
PIP4723C
Sep 20, 2017
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and
PIP4723B
Feb 22, 2017
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and
16NA260
Aug 26, 2016
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
THIS TECHNICAL BULLETIN PROVIDES A PROCEDURE TO REPROGRAM THE MEDIA DISC PLAYER WITH THE LATEST CALIBRATIONS TO CORRECT A CONDITION OF THE REAR ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM NOT OPERATING AS INTENDED IN COLDER AMBIENT TEMPERATURE AREAS DUE TO CALIBR
PIC4696B
Dec 4, 2015
353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock ce
PIC4696A
Oct 23, 2015
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock ce
PIC4696A
Oct 23, 2015
353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on how to unlock radios that are Delco TheftLock. Technician will use the radio to get the scrambled code. Technician will need to contact the radio unlock ce
Recalls
Jun 30, 2014
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Vehicle Recalls
05-06-04-035D
May 9, 2014
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
This informational bulletin provides the technician with information on what E85 fuel may due to a non E85 vehicle.
130089009
Sep 1, 2013
061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)
Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
00T38
Jul 1, 2000
220000 SEATS
SOME CUSTOMERS MAY COMMENT ABOUT ABNORMAL WEAR OR A CUT ON THE INBOARD EDGE OF THE DRIVER OR PASSENGER SEAT BACK COVER. *TT
98T29
Aug 1, 1998
162200 STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS
FRONT FENDER CHIPS PAINT OF FASCIA AT FORWARD TIP. YD
98T07
Feb 1, 1998
020000 SUSPENSION
EXPERIENCING A RATTLE OR CLICK NOISE FROM THE REAR OF VEHICLE WHEN TURNING AT SLOW SPEEDS AND/OR DRIVING OVER UNEVEN SURFACES. *YC
SATURN SL - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the SATURN SL across all model years (1991, 2002).
29
Total Recalls
2,891
Total Complaints
0
Investigations
432
Reported Crashes
50
Reported Fires
11
Reported Deaths
SATURN SL - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.