Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

1997 Saturn SL: complaints, problems and recalls

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

227 owner complaints analyzed

2 distinct recall campaigns

86,300 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 1997 model year. Data updated: . 38 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine is the most frequently named component, appearing in 17 of 227 complaints (7.5%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Braking behavior2912.8%
Transmission and shifting219.3%
Steering behavior219.3%
Electrical and battery issues167.0%
Engine operation83.5%
Fuel system concerns83.5%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine
17
Tires
13
Air Bags:Frontal
12
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
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine17
Tires13
Air Bags:Frontal12
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Gasoline12
Seats12
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components12
Power Train:Automatic Transmission11
Seat Belts:Front:Retractor10

Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine: 17; Tires: 13; Air Bags:Frontal: 12; 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

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
2
25,000 to 49,999
6
50,000 to 74,999
7
75,000 to 99,999
6
100,000 to 149,999
15
150,000 and above
2
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,0002
25,000 to 49,9996
50,000 to 74,9997
75,000 to 99,9996
100,000 to 149,99915
150,000 and above2

Under 25,000: 2; 25,000 to 49,999: 6; 50,000 to 74,999: 7; 75,000 to 99,999: 6; 100,000 to 149,999: 15; 150,000 and above: 2

100,000 to 149,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (15). 189 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

1996
5
1997
18
1998
17
1999
39
2000
41
2001
31
2002
18
2003
14
2004
12
2005
8
2006
6
2007
3
2008
3
2009
4
2012
2
2014
5
2016
1
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
19965
199718
199817
199939
200041
200131
200218
200314
200412
20058
20066
20073
20083
20094
20122
20145
20161

1996: 5; 1997: 18; 1998: 17; 1999: 39; 2000: 41; 2001: 31; 2002: 18; 2003: 14; 2004: 12; 2005: 8; 2006: 6; 2007: 3; 2008: 3; 2009: 4; 2012: 2; 2014: 5; 2016: 1

Pattern summary

Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine leads the component reports. Braking behavior appears in 29 complaint narratives. Transmission and shifting appears in 21 complaint narratives. Steering behavior appears in 21 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Examples from the source records

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10008157 · 2003-02-26 (February 26, 2003)

I WOULD LIKE TO REPORT A SAFETY ISSUE RELATED TO MY VEHICLE. EARLIER THIS WEEK I PURCHASED A USED SATURN FROM A DEALERSHIP IN FULL WORKING CONDITION. WHEN I CAME HOME TO SHOW THE REST OF MY FAMILY THE VEHICLE, WE ALL WENT FOR A RIDE. MY BROTHER IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT, AND MY MOTHER IN THE BACK SEAT. AFTER ARRIVING BACK TO MY HOUSE MY BROTHER AND I EXITED THE VEHICLE, WHILE MY MOTHER STRUGGLED UNSUCCESSFULLY TO EXIT THE VEHICLE. EVERY TIME SHE PULLED THE DOOR HANDLE TO OPEN THE DOOR, THE LOCK BUTTON DIRECTLY ABOVE THE HANDLE WOULD CATC…

Owner-reported narrative. 61,335 miles reported. Look up ODI 10008157 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10015331 · 2003-04-07 (April 7, 2003)

THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. *NLM

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10015331 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10018432 · 2003-05-08 (May 8, 2003)

WE BROUGHT OUR SATURN INTO THE OAKLAND, CA DEALER FOR A TRANSMISSION DIAGNOSIS. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HAS DEVELOPED SOME LEAKS AND CLUTCH / GEAR ASSEMBLY PROBLEMS. INITIAL QUOTE FROM THE DEALER SERVICE MANAGER FOR REPAIR IS $2600.00+. EXTENDED WARRANTY EXPIRED 12/31/02, AND THE CAR IS CURRENTLY AT THE 94,904 MILE MARK. AT THE 91,328 MILEAGE MARK, THE DEALER PERFORMED AN "87,000 MILE" SERVICE, NOT A "90,000 MILE" SERVICE. WHY DIDN'T THE SERVICE ADVISOR INFORM MY DAUGHTER THAT THE "90,000 MILE" SERVICE WAS DUE, WHICH INCLUDED A TRANSMISSION…

Owner-reported narrative. 91,328 miles reported. Look up ODI 10018432 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10019532 · 2003-05-08 (May 8, 2003)

THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. *JB

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10019532 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10024477 · 2003-06-19 (June 19, 2003)

ALTERNATOR FELL OFF BROKE FROM ENGINE BRACKET. CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE IS WITHOUT WARRANTY. *AK

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10024477 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10030804 · 2003-08-05 (August 5, 2003)

WINDSHIELD WIPERS ON MY 1997 SATURN SL STOPPED AS I WAS DRIVING IN THE RAIN. AD TO TO AN EMERGENCY PULL OVER WHILE NOT BEING ABLE TO SEE ANYTHING OUT MY WINDOW. LUCKY TO FIND A SPOT WHILE NOT BEING HIT BY RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC. *AK

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10030804 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10031052 · 2003-08-08 (August 8, 2003)

RANDOMLY, USUALLY ABOUT EVERY FEW MONTHS, I WILL START MY CAR. IT WILL START, BUT IT STARTS "FUNNY." IT DOESN'T HIT THE USUAL HIGH RPMS AND WILL IDLE LOW. IF I ATTEMPT TO DRIVE THE CAR, IT WILL USUALLY RUN WITH LOW RPMS. WHEN THE CAR COMES TO A STOP, IT WILL IDLE LOW AND SOMETIMES STALL. THE PROBLEM OCCURS IN ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS AND TEMPERATURES. IT ALSO OCCURS WHEN THE ENGINE IS HOT OR COLD. SOMETIMES IT TAKES 5-10 TRIES TO START THE CAR AT ALL. OF COURSE, MECHANICS ARE UNABLE TO REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM AND SAY NOTHING IS WRONG W…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10031052 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10033630 · 2003-08-11 (August 11, 2003)

CONSUMER WILL PROVIDE INFORMATION.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10033630 at NHTSA ↗

Recall history

2 distinct campaigns affect this selection. Announcement dates below are different from vehicle model years. A campaign may cover multiple years.

97V138000 · Steering:Gear Box (Other Than Rack And Pinion)

Reported: 1997-08-29 (August 29, 1997)

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.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
97V155000 · Seats

Reported: 1997-09-12 (September 12, 1997)

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.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

227 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-09-30.

16.7%Usable mileage38 / 227 records
81.9%Valid incident date186 / 227 records
100.0%Valid filing date227 / 227 records
81.9%Ordered incident and filing dates186 / 227 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component199119921993199419951996199719981999200020012002
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine
13.4%
ODI 807126

ENGINE OIL LEAK, GASKET OIL PAN RUSTED, CAUSING LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, IN FOR REPAIR WILL PROVIDE INVOICE RECEIPT. *AK

Look up ODI 807126 at NHTSA ↗

1713.8%
ODI 504568

PISTON RINGS FAILED, CAUSING ENGINE TO BURN OIL EXCESSIVELY. *DH

Look up ODI 504568 at NHTSA ↗

169.1%
ODI 10009241

THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDER THE HOOD.*JB *TS

Look up ODI 10009241 at NHTSA ↗

258.7%
ODI 10093917

AIR BAG LIGHT WAS NOT WORKING, REPLACED 2 OF THE COMPONENETS UNDER THE DASH ONE UNDER THE DRIVERS SIDE UP IN THE CORNER AND THE OTHER UP BEHIND THE GLOVE BOX. COOLING FAN DOES NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY MUST KEEP THE AC ON FOR THE FAN TO WORK. A FRIEND OF MINE HAS THE SAME CAR AND HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. TRIED TO FIX BY REPLACING THE SENSORS HAD A MECHANIC TRY TO TROUBLE SHOOT, CAN'T FIND A REASON SO IT IS NOT FIXED JUST KEEP AC ON ALWAYS. CAR VIBRATES AND CAN'T FIND A REASON STILL LOOKING FOR PROBLEM, VIBRATES SO MUCH BODY PARTS ON FRONT ARE BECOM…

Look up ODI 10093917 at NHTSA ↗

339.3%
ODI 10006456 · 45,000 mi

THE VEHICLE HAS CAUSED ME NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS, IT EATS OIL WITHOUT ANY SIGN OF WHERE IT IS GOING. THE AUTO BELT TIGHTENER IS NOT WORKING AND COST AN ARM AND A LEG TO FIX. SUNROOF BROKE WITHOUT ANY NOTICE OR CAUSE, THE FAN SWITCH NEVER DID OPERATE CORRECTLY, NOW IT IS SHIFTING REAL HARD ALL THE TIME WHILE YOUR DRIVING, ONCE IT IS WARMED UP. THIS VEHICLE IS DEFINITELY A LEMON. AK SCC ***DIMSII IVOQ POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT-OVER TO ARTEMIS****744336

Look up ODI 10006456 at NHTSA ↗

3110.8%
ODI 10005654 · 70,000 mi

I PURCHASED MY SATURN SL2 NEW IN 1996. AFTER 70,000 MILES IT STARTED USING AN INORDINATE AMOUNT OF OIL. OIL CONSUMPTION STARTED TO ECLIPSE 1 QT. FOR EVERY 500 MILES. MY OIL CHANGE SERVICE SAID SATURN ENGINES WERE NOTORIOUS FOR BAD RINGS. I TOOK TO SATURN DEALERSHIP. THEY WANTED SEVERAL THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR A NEW ENGINE. I REPLACED ENGINE WITH A SATURN ENGINE WITH 23,000 MILES. AFTER ANOTHER 40,000 MILES THE REPLACEMENT ENGINE EXHIBITED THE EXACT SAME BEHAVIOR. I NOW NEED TO PURCHASE A THIRD ENGINE.

Look up ODI 10005654 at NHTSA ↗

177.5%
ODI 10019532

THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. *JB

Look up ODI 10019532 at NHTSA ↗

148.3%
ODI 10001275 · 11,979 mi

THE VEHICLE STALLED INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING. THE CAM SWITCH WAS REPLACED TWICE, THE IDLE CONTROL WAS ADJUSTED AND THE THROTTLE WAS REPLACED YET THE PROBLEM RECURRED. THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS SHIFTED IN REVERSE. THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. *NM

Look up ODI 10001275 at NHTSA ↗

179.6%
ODI 10008758

THE HEAD GASKET LEAKED.*JB

Look up ODI 10008758 at NHTSA ↗

106.8%
ODI 10027114 · 45,000 mi

WHEN THE CONSUMER STARTED THE VEHICLE, THE OIL LIGHT ILLUMINATED, THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP, WHO STATED THE OIL PUMP FAILED. *AK *TS *JB

Look up ODI 10027114 at NHTSA ↗

76.3%
ODI 10011082 · 43,000 mi

2001 SATURN 1.9 LITER L4 SL2 5 SPEED. THE MANIFOLD GASKET WENT BAD CAUSING ANTI-FREEZE TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE AND CAUSED THE WATER PUMP TO GO BAD. THE CAR HAD 46,000 MILES. *JB

Look up ODI 10011082 at NHTSA ↗

53.8%
ODI 10013802

2002 SATURN SL HAS 3 LEAKING SEALS. VERY DANGEROUS FOR A FIRE. REAR SEAL, OIL PAN GASKET AND CRANK CASE GASKET ALL LEAKING. DANGEROUS FOR SINGLE WOMEN ON THE ROAD. *JB

Look up ODI 10013802 at NHTSA ↗

Power Train:Automatic Transmission
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

43.3%
ODI 507374

DRIVER REPLACED BATTERIES 4 TIMES, TRANSMISSION SLIPPING IN 2ND GEAR, REPLACED GENERATOR WIRING AS PER SERVICE RECALL, ALSO REPLACED MOTOR MOUNTS AND BRAKE ROTORS AND PADS. *AK

Look up ODI 507374 at NHTSA ↗

137.4%
ODI 10053882 · 35,000 mi

AFTER TURNING THE VEHICLE ON AND PLACING THE GEAR IN PARK OR NEUTRAL VEHICLE WILL JUMPED FORWARD, DEALER EXAMINED THE VEHICLE, AND FOUND THAT THE VALVE BODY ASSEMBLY HAD TO BE REPLACED. *AK THE CONSUMER OWNS FOUR OTHER SATURN VEHICLES. THREE OF THEM HAVE ALSO HAD THEIR VALVE BODY ASSEMBLIES REPLACED. ALL OF THE VEHICLES HAD UNDER 50000 MILES ON THEIR ODOMETER'S. *NM

Look up ODI 10053882 at NHTSA ↗

175.9%
ODI 10093917

AIR BAG LIGHT WAS NOT WORKING, REPLACED 2 OF THE COMPONENETS UNDER THE DASH ONE UNDER THE DRIVERS SIDE UP IN THE CORNER AND THE OTHER UP BEHIND THE GLOVE BOX. COOLING FAN DOES NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY MUST KEEP THE AC ON FOR THE FAN TO WORK. A FRIEND OF MINE HAS THE SAME CAR AND HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. TRIED TO FIX BY REPLACING THE SENSORS HAD A MECHANIC TRY TO TROUBLE SHOOT, CAN'T FIND A REASON SO IT IS NOT FIXED JUST KEEP AC ON ALWAYS. CAR VIBRATES AND CAN'T FIND A REASON STILL LOOKING FOR PROBLEM, VIBRATES SO MUCH BODY PARTS ON FRONT ARE BECOM…

Look up ODI 10093917 at NHTSA ↗

185.1%
ODI 10006456 · 45,000 mi

THE VEHICLE HAS CAUSED ME NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS, IT EATS OIL WITHOUT ANY SIGN OF WHERE IT IS GOING. THE AUTO BELT TIGHTENER IS NOT WORKING AND COST AN ARM AND A LEG TO FIX. SUNROOF BROKE WITHOUT ANY NOTICE OR CAUSE, THE FAN SWITCH NEVER DID OPERATE CORRECTLY, NOW IT IS SHIFTING REAL HARD ALL THE TIME WHILE YOUR DRIVING, ONCE IT IS WARMED UP. THIS VEHICLE IS DEFINITELY A LEMON. AK SCC ***DIMSII IVOQ POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT-OVER TO ARTEMIS****744336

Look up ODI 10006456 at NHTSA ↗

113.8%
ODI 10023280 · 81,000 mi

1996 SATURN SL1'S HAVE A PROBLEM REFERRED TO AS "DELAYED ENGAGEMENT IN REVERSE. WHEN YOU PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE IT WILL NOT MOVE, CAUSING POTENTIAL PROBLEMS. THIS IS DUE TO THE VALVE BODY ON THE TRANSMISSION WEARING EXCESSIVELY, ALLOWING AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID TO FLOW AROUND A POPPET BEFORE ENGAGING. SATURN IS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM AND SO ARE THE TRANSMISSION REPAIR PLACES. SATURN REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THIS PROBLEM THOUGH THEY HAVE ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN FOR THE PROBLEM AND AT ABOUT $1000 PER REPAIR PER VEHICLE SATURN HAS A VES…

Look up ODI 10023280 at NHTSA ↗

114.8%
ODI 10018432 · 91,328 mi

WE BROUGHT OUR SATURN INTO THE OAKLAND, CA DEALER FOR A TRANSMISSION DIAGNOSIS. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HAS DEVELOPED SOME LEAKS AND CLUTCH / GEAR ASSEMBLY PROBLEMS. INITIAL QUOTE FROM THE DEALER SERVICE MANAGER FOR REPAIR IS $2600.00+. EXTENDED WARRANTY EXPIRED 12/31/02, AND THE CAR IS CURRENTLY AT THE 94,904 MILE MARK. AT THE 91,328 MILEAGE MARK, THE DEALER PERFORMED AN "87,000 MILE" SERVICE, NOT A "90,000 MILE" SERVICE. WHY DIDN'T THE SERVICE ADVISOR INFORM MY DAUGHTER THAT THE "90,000 MILE" SERVICE WAS DUE, WHICH INCLUDED A TRANSMISSION…

Look up ODI 10018432 at NHTSA ↗

1810.7%
ODI 10001275 · 11,979 mi

THE VEHICLE STALLED INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING. THE CAM SWITCH WAS REPLACED TWICE, THE IDLE CONTROL WAS ADJUSTED AND THE THROTTLE WAS REPLACED YET THE PROBLEM RECURRED. THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS SHIFTED IN REVERSE. THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. *NM

Look up ODI 10001275 at NHTSA ↗

95.1%
ODI 10003575 · 30,550 mi

1999 SATURN SL2 WITH 30,500 MILES TRANSMISSION EXPLODED.

Look up ODI 10003575 at NHTSA ↗

2214.9%
ODI 10024819

WHEN VEHICLE IS ENGAGED IN REVERSE IT MAKES A TERRIBLE NOISE. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK

Look up ODI 10024819 at NHTSA ↗

1412.6%
ODI 10053889 · 50,000 mi

AFTER TURNING THE VEHICLE ON AND WHEN PLACING THE GEAR IN PARK OR NEUTRAL VEHICLE JUMPED FORWARD. DEALER EXAMINED THE VEHICLE, AND FOUND THAT THAT VALVE BODY ASSEMBLY HAD BEEN REPLACED. *AK

Look up ODI 10053889 at NHTSA ↗

1410.7%
ODI 10072203

WHEN PUTTING THE GEAR SHIFT IN REVERSE VEHICLE WOULD NOT MOVE. CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. *AK

Look up ODI 10072203 at NHTSA ↗

Seats:Front Assembly:Recliner
26.9%
ODI 513637

WHILE LEANING BACK IN SEAT TO REACH INTO PANTS POCKET, THE SEATBACK FRAME BENT BACKWARDS, CAUSIN GTHE RECLINING CATCH TO RELEASE. *AK

Look up ODI 513637 at NHTSA ↗

64.9%
ODI 10017680

CONSUMER WAS AT A STOP WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE REAR ENDED HER VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DRIVER'S SEAT BACK COLLAPSED AND WHEN THE SEAT RECLINED, THE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN HER. *JB

Look up ODI 10017680 at NHTSA ↗

126.9%
ODI 539614

VEHICLE WAS REAR-ENDED AND PUSHED INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF CONSUMER. HAD BOTH FRON TAND RAE IMPACT. DRIVER'S AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY, AND SHOULDER BELT DID NOT LOCK IN TIME TO PREVENT DRIVER FROM FALLING FORWARD, HITTING HEAD ON STEERING WHEEL. ALSO, SEATBACK COLLAPSED, DRIVER FELL BACKWARDS AND HIT BACK OF HEAD. SUSTAINED INJURIES, AND VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK

Look up ODI 539614 at NHTSA ↗

2910.1%
ODI 10022969 · 162,700 mi

AS A RESULT OF BEING REAR ENDED, THE DRIVER'S SEAT BACK COLLAPSED. *AK. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY WHEN THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS PUSHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. *JB

Look up ODI 10022969 at NHTSA ↗

3810.7%
ODI 10029595

CONSUMER CALLED COMPLAINING ABOUT HAVING PROBLEM, WITH DRIVERS CHAIR BREAKING WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS IMPACTED FROM THE BACK BY ANOTHER VEHICLE.MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED AT THE TIME AT THIS CALL. *AK

Look up ODI 10029595 at NHTSA ↗

124.2%
ODI 10025482 · 46,500 mi

UNSATISFACTORY RESPONSES FROM SATURN CUSTOMER SERVICE; REPAIRS THAT SHOULD BE COVERED PER CALIFORNIAS LEMON LAW FOR OUR 1996 SATURN SL1 WITH ONLY 46K MILES. ROTE TO GM & SATURN CEO'S. THEY LIE AND DO NOT STAND BEHIND THEIR CRAPPY PRODUCT. WE WILL NEVER BUY AMERICAN AGAIN!PER MY RECENT CONVERSATIONS WITH SATURN CUSTOMER SERVICE, THERE HAS BEEN ABSOLUTELY NO EFFORT OF GOODWILL TO REIMBURSE AND FIX THE BELOW AFOREMENTIONED MECHANICAL PROBLEMS FROM THE INFERIOR MATERIALS USED IN BUILDING OUR SATURN VEHICLE. THE FAILURES WE NEED REIMBURSEMENT F…

Look up ODI 10025482 at NHTSA ↗

62.6%
ODI 550684

DURING COLLESION DUE TO POOR DESIGN OF GAS TANK ASSEMBLY CAP CAME OFF AND REAR WHEEL BED AND TANK WRAPPED AROUND EACH OTHER RESULTING IN LEAKAGE. YH

Look up ODI 550684 at NHTSA ↗

42.4%
ODI 10169896

DURING A REAR END COLLISION THE BACK OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT RELEASED TO FULL RECLINE POSITION. LEAVING ME WHICH MORE SEVERE INJURIES THAN I SHOULD HAVE SUSTAINED. *NM

Look up ODI 10169896 at NHTSA ↗

63.4%
ODI 10014740 · 76,000 mi

THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A COLLISION, AND THE FRONT SEATS RECLINED BACKWARDS. *JB

Look up ODI 10014740 at NHTSA ↗

42.7%
ODI 10072146

WHILE STOPPING VEHICLE WAS REAR-ENDED. AFTER THE COLLISION BOTH FRONT SEAT BACKS COLLAPSED AND FELL BACK ONTO REAR SEATS.*AK

Look up ODI 10072146 at NHTSA ↗

32.7%
ODI 746284

FREEWAY TRAFFIC SUDDENLY CAME TO A STOP. I STOPPED BUT WAS REAR ENDED BY A VEHICLE TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND PUSHED INTO CAR IN FRONT OF ME. DRIVERS SEAT BACK COLLAPSED. I SUSTAINED MINOR BACK, HIP, BRUISED STOMACH MUSCLES AND KNEE INJURIES THAT I FEEL WOULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED OR MUCH LESS SEVERE HAD THE SEAT BACK HELD. I'M HAVING A PROBLEM COMPREHENDING GMS CONTENTION THAT THE SEAT BACK YIELDING IS A DESIRABLE RESPONSE TO THIS OR ANY SITUATION (AND THE FACT THAT THEIR PRODUCT ADHERES TO ALL RELEVANT STANDARDS, ETC).*AK

Look up ODI 746284 at NHTSA ↗

53.8%
ODI 10051952 · 25,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED A REAR END COLLISION. UPON IMPACT THE DRIVER SEAT COLLAPSED WITHOUT WARNING. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED NECK AND BACK INJURIES. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NLM

Look up ODI 10051952 at NHTSA ↗

Vehicle Speed Control
26.9%
ODI 822021

WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE 60 MPH ON THE FREEWAY VEHICLE STARTED ACCELERATING BY ITSELF. DRIVER STEPPED ON THE BRAKES TO STOP. BUT VEHICLE DID NOT STOP, AND DRIVING OVER CURVES WITHOUT STOPPING, SHE FINALLY STOPPED IT BY PULLING THE IGNITION KEY ON A MALL PARKING LOT. *AK

Look up ODI 822021 at NHTSA ↗

54.1%
ODI 747891

ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED THREE TIMES AND BATTERY REPLACED 5 TIMES. NOW EXPERIENCING SURGING, HESITATION AND STALLING, AND THE DEALER CANNOT FIND THE CAUSE AFTER FOUR TRIPS. *AK

Look up ODI 747891 at NHTSA ↗

179.7%
ODI 484682

CRUISE CONTROL LOCKED UP WHILE DRIVING ON A DOWN GRADE FREEWAY. *AK

Look up ODI 484682 at NHTSA ↗

3311.5%
ODI 10532626 · 86,000 mi

FOR SEVERAL YEARS NOW, THE CRUISE CONTROL ON THE CAR WILL TURN ITSELF OFF WHILE ENGAGED, AND, IF LEFT ALONE, WILL RANDOMLY REENGAGE TEN OR FIFTEEN MINUTES LATER WITH NO WARNING. THIS CAN CAUSE A SURGE OF ACCELERATION (AS MUCH AS ONE CAN EXPECT FROM A SATURN, ANYHOW) IF SPEED HAS SLOWED DUE TO TRAFFIC. *TR

Look up ODI 10532626 at NHTSA ↗

174.8%
ODI 501334

FRONT BRAKES GRIND, DUE TO LEFT CALIPER FAILURE.

Look up ODI 501334 at NHTSA ↗

103.5%
ODI 10299775 · 76,824 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SATURN SL2. WHILE DRIVING LESS THAN 10 MPH AND ENGAGING THE BRAKE PEDAL THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. IN ORDER TO STOP THE ACCELERATION, THE CONTACT HAD SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL GEAR AND TURN THE VEHICLE OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHERE THE CONTACT HAD THE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR HARNESS REPLACED. THERE WERE NO PRIOR WARNINGS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,824. UPDATED 02/17/10. *LJ UPDATED 02/18/10

Look up ODI 10299775 at NHTSA ↗

94.0%
ODI 10015331

THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. *NLM

Look up ODI 10015331 at NHTSA ↗

31.8%
ODI 753785

MY MOTHER AND I WERE DRIVING SOUTH ON I-95, MILE MARKER 277 (NORTH OF DAYTONA) WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL SET FOR 72 MILES PER HOUR. I WAS IN THE RIGHT LANE, AND AS I APPROACHED A CAR GOING SLOWER, I APPLIED THE BRAKES TO RELEASE THE CRUISE CONTROL. IT WOULD NOT TURN OFF, SO I MOVED TO THE LEFT LANE AND TRIED REPEATEDLY TO RELEASE IT. I WAS ABOUT THE HIT THE REAR OF THE CAR INFRONT OF ME, AND IT SEEMED LIKE I WAS ACCELERATING RATHER THAN DECELERATING. I COULD NOT SLOW DOWN SO WENT INTO THE MEDIAN STRIP, AND STILL WAS UNABLE TO SLOW DOWN.IT SEEMED …

Look up ODI 753785 at NHTSA ↗

31.7%
ODI 10040051 · 29,000 mi

WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED WHILE COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP MOTOR REVVED, BUT VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP. THIS RESULTED IN EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. *AK

Look up ODI 10040051 at NHTSA ↗

53.4%
ODI 10107479 · 100,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING IN COLD WEATHER AT ANY SPEED THE VEHICLE ACCELERATEED WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE CONSUMER HAD TO SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *JB

Look up ODI 10107479 at NHTSA ↗

10.9%
ODI 746638

THIS IS A DESIGN ISSUE. WE ARE PRIOR YEAR (1993, 1997 (2), AND 1998) SATURN OWNERS. FOR THE PRIOR YEARS, THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS LOCATED ON THE INSIDE OF THE STEERING COLUMN. THE HORN BUTTONS WERE LOCATED ON THE LOWER PORTION OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THIS RESULTED IN COMPLAINTS FROM MANY OWNERS BECAUSE THIS WAS NOT THE STANDARD LOCATION FOR HORNS ON GM OR OTHER MODELS. IN 1999 OR 2000, SATURN MOVED THE HORN TO THE TYPICAL LOCATION (CENTER OF STEERING WHEEL OVER THE AIRBAG). THEY REPLACED THE HORN BUTTONS WITH THE CURISE CONTROLS. 4-6 WEEKS …

Look up ODI 746638 at NHTSA ↗

10.8%
ODI 8009277

WHILE DRIVING IT IS HARD FOR BRAKES TO STOP VEHICLE. *AK WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED VEHICLE CONTINUES TO ACCELERATE. THE ENGINE RPMS RACED AND WOULD NOT IDLE DOWN. DRIVER HAD HAS TO APPLY BRAKES VERY HARD. DEALER REPLACE THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR. *TT

Look up ODI 8009277 at NHTSA ↗

Air Bags:Frontal
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

21.6%
ODI 10115235

1995 SATURN SL2, INCOMPLETE DEPLOYMENT OF PASSENGER SIDE FRONT AIRBAG IN MODERATE FRONTAL COLLISION. *BF PORTIONS OF THE AIR BAG FABRIC MELTED THE INTERNAL COMPONETS OF THE MODULE. *JB

Look up ODI 10115235 at NHTSA ↗

74.0%
ODI 484821

NO DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVER'S AIRBAG DURING ACCIDENT, CAUSING INJURY. *SD

Look up ODI 484821 at NHTSA ↗

186.3%
ODI 10022969 · 162,700 mi

AS A RESULT OF BEING REAR ENDED, THE DRIVER'S SEAT BACK COLLAPSED. *AK. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY WHEN THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS PUSHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. *JB

Look up ODI 10022969 at NHTSA ↗

267.3%
ODI 10139509

DT: 1995 SATURN SL1 4 DOOR. CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT ON SEPTEMBER 29, 2005 . UPON IMPACT, THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONSUMER TOOK PICTURES . HOWEVER, HAD NOT CONTACTED DEALERSHIP OR MANUFACTURER BECAUSE HE THOUGHT VEHICLE WAS TOO OLD, AND DEALERSHIP INFORMATION WAS UNKNOWN. THE CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING 30-35 MPH, HIT THE BRAKES, AND THEY DID NOT STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE HAS TWO FRONT AIRBAGS . CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS HIT ON FRONT AND DRIVER SIDE OF VEHICLE AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE C…

Look up ODI 10139509 at NHTSA ↗

113.8%
ODI 506320

NO DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVERS AIR BAG IN FRONT END COLLISION.

Look up ODI 506320 at NHTSA ↗

125.3%
ODI 10046330 · 104,000 mi

VEHICLE WAS IN A FRONTAL COLLISION WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH. UPON IMPACT, NEITHER DRIVER'S SIDE NOR PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. *AK

Look up ODI 10046330 at NHTSA ↗

31.8%
ODI 10130786

MY BROTHER WAS KILLED JUNE 24, 2005, IN A SINGLE CAR ACCIDENT. HE WAS DRIVING A 1998 SATURN SL ON AN INTERSTATE IN MISSISSIPPI, THE SATURN WENT OUT OF CONTROL, HIS SEATBELT (WHICH HE ALWAYS WORE) AND HE WAS EJECTED FROM THE CAR. SINCE HIS DEATH, I'VE FOUND ON NHTSA'S SITE ALMOST 30 DIFFERENT COMPLAINTS FROM 1998 SATURN SLY OWNERS DESCRIBING SERIOUS FAILURES OF THAT CARS STABILITY, BRAKES, STEERING, AND AIR BAGS---ALL OF WHICH RESULTED IN THE CAR GOING OUT OF CONTROL. FORTUNATELY, THE DRIVERS IN THE 30 COMPLAINTS I'VE FOUND ALL STATED THAT THE…

Look up ODI 10130786 at NHTSA ↗

126.7%
ODI 10015833 · 39,000 mi

THE FRONTAL AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT IMPACT. *JB TURNED INTO PARKING SPACE AND BUMPED UNDER CAR ON CURB. BENDING THE SWAY BAR BRACKET BUT DID NOT TOUCH CAR BODY OR BUMPER.*TS

Look up ODI 10015833 at NHTSA ↗

21.4%
ODI 10237300 · 82,176 mi

SIDEWALL EXPLODED WHILE ENTERING A DRIVEWAY. BOUGHT THE SAME TIRE AS A REPLACEMENT AND IT DEVELOPED A GIANT SIDEWALL BUBBLE IN A FEW THOUSAND MILES THAT JUST RUPTURED...THE TWO TIRES BOTH WENT BAD IN ONLY 11333 MILES...ABOUT 5666 MILES EACH!! *TR

Look up ODI 10237300 at NHTSA ↗

76.3%
ODI 10044278 · 47,000 mi

WHILE PARKING VEHICLE,BOTH AIR BAGS INADVERTENTLY DEPLOYED. HAD NOT HIT ANYTHING WHILE PARKING VEHICLE. *AK

Look up ODI 10044278 at NHTSA ↗

32.3%
ODI 10082691

AFTER A CRASH IN A SATURN AND THE AIR BAGS EXPLODED. THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE DASHBOARD AREA STARTED SMOLDERING. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED AND PUT THE FIRE OUT BEFORE IT DID A LOT OF DAMAGE.*AK

Look up ODI 10082691 at NHTSA ↗

Seats
26.9%
ODI 503962

DRIVER'S SEAT BACK COLLAPSED DUE TO REAR IMPACT. *SD

Look up ODI 503962 at NHTSA ↗

129.8%
ODI 10018147 · 140,000 mi

CONSUMER WAS REAR ENDED AND THE DRIVERSIDE SEAT BACK COLLASPED. THE BACK OF THE SEAT SLAMMED DOWN SO HARD THAT IF A PASSENGER WAS SITTING THERE THERE LEGS WOULD HAVE BEEN CRUSHED. "POOR DESIGN", STATES CONSUMER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.

Look up ODI 10018147 at NHTSA ↗

95.1%
ODI 10585967 · 60,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1993 SATURN SL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE WINDSHIELD WIPER SEPARATED FROM THE ARM. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SEAT, HORN, IGNITION, AND WINDOWS ALSO FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED OR DIAGNOSED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 172,727. UPDATED 09/15/14*LJ UPDATED 1/13/2014 *JS

Look up ODI 10585967 at NHTSA ↗

196.6%
ODI 10190383 · 134,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 SATURN SL2. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE'S FRONT SEAT MECHANISM FAILED SIMILAR TO THE FAILURE NOTED IN RECALL # 99V045000 (SEATS). THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS EXCLUDED FROM THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE'S PURCHASE DATE AND ENGINE SIZE WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 139,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 134,000. UPDATED 06/08/07. *JB

Look up ODI 10190383 at NHTSA ↗

329.0%
ODI 10002150

WHILE SITTING INSIDE OF HER VEHICLE THE FRONT SEAT DRIVER SIDE RECLINE BACKWARDS AND NEVER COME BACK TO ORIGINAL STATE. PLEASE FURNISH ADDITIONAL INFORMATION DEALER. PH

Look up ODI 10002150 at NHTSA ↗

31.0%
ODI 534035

REAR DOOR STICKS CLOSED, INOPERABLE FROM INSIDE AND OUT.

Look up ODI 534035 at NHTSA ↗

125.3%
ODI 609525

THE BACK OF THE REAR SEAT COLLAPSED FORWARD AFTER A SUDDEN STOP.

Look up ODI 609525 at NHTSA ↗

21.2%
ODI 606181

REAR WINDOW SHIELD WIPER FAILED. YH

Look up ODI 606181 at NHTSA ↗

21.1%
ODI 843661

HIT FROM BEHIND DRIVER'S SEAT COLLAPSED. THE DRIVER'S SEAT WAS JAMMED TO THE BACK SEAT. CONSUMER CONTACTED DEALER AND MANUFACTURER, THEY CLAIMED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE SEAT. *AK

Look up ODI 843661 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

21.8%
ODI 8013295

THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT LOCK WILL NOT STAY IN PLACE IN ORDER TO LOCK THE SEAT DOWN. THE DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM.*JB

Look up ODI 8013295 at NHTSA ↗

43.1%
ODI 10014398

I PURCHASED A 4-DOOR SATURN SL 2002 THIS PAST SUMMER. THE CARS DESIGN IS INCORRECT. WHEN I SIT IN THE SEAT WITH BOTH OF MY HANDS ON THE STEERING WHEEL AND DRIVE, I HAVE TO TURN MY BODY FROM THE WAIST DOWN TO THE LEFT IN ORDER TO PRESS ON THE GAS OR BRAKE. I HAVE NO ROOM ON THE RIGHT SIDE NEXT TO THE GAS PEDAL DUE TO THE CENTER CONSOLE PANEL, IT FORCES ME TO SIT WITH MY WAIST TURNED TO THE LEFT. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY UNCOMFORTABLE POSITION AND I HAVE HAD CONTINUAL BACK PAIN, WHICH BEGAN TWO MONTHS AFTER PURCHASING THE CAR. I HAVE BEEN SEEING A CH…

Look up ODI 10014398 at NHTSA ↗

Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Gasoline
13.4%
ODI 721925

HAVE HAD CAR SERVICED NUMEROUS TIMES, ENGINE ALWAYS REMAINED ROUGH, CAR DIES ON US, HAS LOW UPTAKE SPEED, MECHANIC SAID ITS A SATURN ENGINE DEFECT, WILL EVENTUALLY DIE ALTOGETHER. *AK

Look up ODI 721925 at NHTSA ↗

32.4%
ODI 715368

SATURNED REFUSED TO HELP WITH THE COSTS

Look up ODI 715368 at NHTSA ↗

116.3%
ODI 481477

ENGINE CONTINUES TO HESITATE AFTER REPEATED REPAIRS. *SKD

Look up ODI 481477 at NHTSA ↗

62.1%
ODI 517928

ENGINE FAILURE; ALSO, TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTIONED. *AK

Look up ODI 517928 at NHTSA ↗

215.9%
ODI 482603

INTERMITTENT SUDDEN ACCELERATION DUE TO COMPUTER CHIP FAILURE.

Look up ODI 482603 at NHTSA ↗

186.3%
ODI 10031308

CONSUMER STATED THAT SHE HAD HER AUTOMOBILE INSSPECTED ,AND WAS TOLD THAT HEAD GASKETS WERE LEAKING. SHE DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND THAT OTHER SATURN OWNER WERE HAVING THE SAME KIND OF PROBLEM. WHAT COULD SHE DO ABOUT IT?*AK

Look up ODI 10031308 at NHTSA ↗

125.3%
ODI 534043

VEHICLE'S ENGINE CONTINUALLY MAKES NOISE, LOUDER WITH AIR CONDITIONER RUNNING, UNABLE TO DETERMINE CAUSE.

Look up ODI 534043 at NHTSA ↗

63.6%
ODI 536547

ENGINE EXPERIENCING KNOCKING PROBLEMS.

Look up ODI 536547 at NHTSA ↗

63.4%
ODI 10128892 · 94,000 mi

DT: THE VEHICLE IS A 1999 SATURN SL. WHEN THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON THE CONSUMERS DAUGHTER TOOK IT TO GET THE OIL CHANGED. FOUR DAYS LATER ON 6-25-05, SHE HEARD AN EXPLOSION; THE CAP ON THE RADIATOR COOLANT HAD POPPED OFF. SHE NOTICED THAT THERE WAS SOMETHING GUSHING OUT OF THE VEHICLE, WHICH TURNED OUT TO BE THE COOLANT AND OIL MIXED. THIS MIXTURE IS CURRENTLY SPLATTERED ON THE CONSUMERS DRIVEWAY. AFTERWARDS SHE CONTACTED THE PLACE WERE SHE GOT THE OIL CHANGED AND THEY TOLD HER TO BRING IT IN. SHE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE THEM O…

Look up ODI 10128892 at NHTSA ↗

64.1%
ODI 10210747

DRIVING MY 2000 SATURN SL2 70 MPH CHECK ENGINE LIGHT SUDDENLY COMES ON, ENGINE STOPS RUNNING PULL OVER, LUCKILY CLEAR CONDITIONS, SAFELY. TOWED CAR TO DEALER. DEALER SAYS TIMING CHAIN OR BELT MAY HAVE BROKEN. DEALER CALLS BACK, SAYS I NEED A $7000.00 REPLACEMENT ENGINE. THIS CAR HAS COST ME OVER 5000.00 IN REPAIRS. SATURN HAS NOT OFFERED ANY SORT OF EXPLANATION. JUST A BROKEN TIMING CHAIN. THERE ARE MANY MANY COMPLAINTS I HAVE READ ONLINE. I AM FURIOUS. *TR

Look up ODI 10210747 at NHTSA ↗

32.7%
ODI 10144634 · 10,000 mi

WE NOTICED THAT SOMETIMES THE CAR WAS ENGINE WAS RACING WHEN COMING TO A STOP AND YOU HAVE TO HOLD EXTRA PRESSURE ON THE BAKE PEDAL TO KEEP THE CAR FROM MOVING FORWARD. THE IDLE SPEED INCREASES FROM A NORMAL 750 RPM TO APPROXIMATELY 1750 RPM WHILE IN NEUTRAL, INTERMEDIATELY, SOMETIMES RIGHT AFTER STARTING THE CAR, SOMETIMES AFTER DRIVING FOR A WHILE. THE CAR ENGINE WHEN IT DOES THIS WILL EXCEED 1100 RPM WHILE IN DRIVE WITH YOUR FOOT ON THE BRAKE. THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER NUMEROUS TIMES UNDER WHILE UNDER WARRANTY AND ONE TIME SPECIFICAL…

Look up ODI 10144634 at NHTSA ↗

43.1%
ODI 10186683 · 95,000 mi

MY SON HAD AN ACCIDENT INVOLVING 3 OTHER VEHICLES. THE MOTOR OF THE 2002 SATURN SL1 IN WHICH HE WAS DRIVING STALLED AS HE EXITED THE HIGHWAY ONTO A SERVICE ROAD. ONCE THE ENGINE STALLED,HE DID NOT HAVE THE ABILITY TO STEER OR STOP THE VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, HE STRUCK 2 VEHICLES THAT WERE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT CAUSING A CHAIN REACTION. THE SECOND VEHICLE THAT HE STRUCK HIT THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF IT. THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED IN THE VEHICLE MY SON DROVE. THE RIGHT SIDE OF VEHICLE 1 SUSTAINED DAMAGE. THE REAR AND FRONT BUMPERS WERE DAMAGED ON VEHI…

Look up ODI 10186683 at NHTSA ↗

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

64.9%
ODI 483893

BRAKES FAILED DUE TO 'BOILING OF FLUID WHEN APPLYING BRAKES FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME DOWN A STEEP HILL. *SD

Look up ODI 483893 at NHTSA ↗

63.4%
ODI 481477

ENGINE CONTINUES TO HESITATE AFTER REPEATED REPAIRS. *SKD

Look up ODI 481477 at NHTSA ↗

93.1%
ODI 489249

ENGINE VALVES STICKING DUE TO CARBON BUILD-UP. *SKD

Look up ODI 489249 at NHTSA ↗

185.1%
ODI 482603

INTERMITTENT SUDDEN ACCELERATION DUE TO COMPUTER CHIP FAILURE.

Look up ODI 482603 at NHTSA ↗

155.2%
ODI 502288

BRAKES GRIND.

Look up ODI 502288 at NHTSA ↗

125.3%
ODI 531147

BRAKE FAILURE, CAUSING ACCIDENT.

Look up ODI 531147 at NHTSA ↗

42.4%
ODI 536002

WHEN THE TRUCK LID IS RAISED IN RAINY WEATHER, WATER DRIPS INTO LUGGAGE COMPARTMENT DUE TO DESIGN.

Look up ODI 536002 at NHTSA ↗

95.1%
ODI 10052540 · 60,000 mi

I PURCHASED A 1999 SATURN SL2 W/ 23,000MI. AT 60,000MI I BEGAN TO FEEL A JUDDER/VIBRATION FROM THE STEERING WHEEL. I TOOK IT TO A SATURN DEALER AND WAS TOLD THE ROTORS WE'RE WARPED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I WENT TO A REPAIR SHOP AND HAD NON-OEM BRAKE ROTORS INSTALLED AND AFTER APPROXIAMETELY 65,000MI, BEGAN TO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. AFTER LEAVING THE CAR WITH THE REPAIR SHOP, THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG, BUT MY ROTORS KEEP WARPING. THE REPAIR SHOP CUT THE ROTORS "SLIGHTLY" AND NOW AT 70,000MI I STILL HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. THE…

Look up ODI 10052540 at NHTSA ↗

21.4%
ODI 725955

I WAS IN RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC AND WENT TO HIT THE BRAKES TO STOP AND THE CAR WOULD NOT STOP, IT DID NOT EVEN SLOW DOWN UNTIL I HIT THE OTHER CAR, RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT. *AK

Look up ODI 725955 at NHTSA ↗

21.8%
ODI 8005957

AFTER A RAIN OR SNOW DAY, BRAKES WILL TIGHTEN UP AND MAKE A GRINDING NOISE LIKE METAL TO METAL. DEALER WAS CONTACTED. *AK

Look up ODI 8005957 at NHTSA ↗

10.8%
ODI 8010054

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION NOT ABLE TO SHIFT INTO LOW GEAR WHILE DESCENDING STEEP GRADE/MOUNTAIN ROADS. BRAKES ARE SCORCHED DUE TO EXCESSIVE PEDAL APPLICATION, AND CONTROLLING VEHICLE IS WITH DIFFICULTY. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. *AK

Look up ODI 8010054 at NHTSA ↗

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Engine And Engine Cooling:EngineToo few reports for a range76,300 mi4 (sparse)
ODI 10093779 · 84,600 mi

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 CRASHES. SOLUTION: TO REPLACE CYLINDER HEAD ASSEMBLY GM/SATURN RESPONSE: COMPLAINT FILED WITH GM ON SEPTEMBER 10, 2004 VIA WRITTEN LETTER. GM RESPONSE TO THAT LETTER WAS A COURTESY CALL TO "THANK" US FOR OUR "FEEDBACK" AND HOW IT WILL BE PUT IN A …

Look up ODI 10093779 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10118497 · 68,000 mi

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

Look up ODI 10118497 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10198619 · 131,000 mi

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 VEHICLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 131,000. UPDATED 01-11-08. *KB UPDATED 12/12/07 *TR

Look up ODI 10198619 at NHTSA ↗

TiresToo few reports for a range72,844 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 10105021 · 72,844 mi

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

Look up ODI 10105021 at NHTSA ↗

Air Bags:FrontalToo few reports for a range124,805 mi2 (sparse)
ODI 10046330 · 104,000 mi

VEHICLE WAS IN A FRONTAL COLLISION WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH. UPON IMPACT, NEITHER DRIVER'S SIDE NOR PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. *AK

Look up ODI 10046330 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10139819 · 145,610 mi

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

Look up ODI 10139819 at NHTSA ↗

Power Train:Automatic TransmissionToo few reports for a range67,869 mi2 (sparse)
ODI 10018432 · 91,328 mi

WE BROUGHT OUR SATURN INTO THE OAKLAND, CA DEALER FOR A TRANSMISSION DIAGNOSIS. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HAS DEVELOPED SOME LEAKS AND CLUTCH / GEAR ASSEMBLY PROBLEMS. INITIAL QUOTE FROM THE DEALER SERVICE MANAGER FOR REPAIR IS $2600.00+. EXTENDED WARRANTY EXPIRED 12/31/02, AND THE CAR IS CURRENTLY AT THE 94,904 MILE MARK. AT THE 91,328 MILEAGE MARK, THE DEALER PERFORMED AN "87,000 MILE" SERVICE, NOT A "90,000 MILE" SERVICE. WHY DIDN'T THE SERVICE ADVISOR INFORM MY DAUGHTER THAT THE "90,000 MILE" SERVICE WAS DUE, WHICH INCLUDED A TRANSMISSION…

Look up ODI 10018432 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10050158 · 44,409 mi

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 UNABLE TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK THE OCCUPANTS SUSTAINED MUSCLES PULLS, BUMPS, AND BRUISES. *NM

Look up ODI 10050158 at NHTSA ↗

Seat Belts:Front:RetractorToo few reports for a range55,500 mi2 (sparse)
ODI 10049879 · 23,000 mi

DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR FAILED. *AK *MR

Look up ODI 10049879 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10154711 · 88,000 mi

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 SAME THING IN THE 2 DR COUPE MODEL; I WAS TOLD MY MODEL WAS NOT COVERED IN THE RECALL. THE CAR HAS NEVER BEEN IN A MAJOR ACCIDENT AND RARELY DOES THE PASSENGER FRONT SEAT HAVE AN OCCUPANT. THE SEAT BELT WILL BE REPLACED AS WE NEED IT TO ENSURE SAFE…

Look up ODI 10154711 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

1 reports2024-102026-09

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-09 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 247 reports

2001: 41 complaints · 2002: 47 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2001153041
2002183647
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
200110164
200212092

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentEngine And Engine Cooling:EngineTiresAir Bags:FrontalEngine And Engine Cooling:Engine:GasolineSeatsService Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation ComponentsPower Train:Automatic TransmissionSeat Belts:Front:Retractor
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine—00
1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

0
1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

0
Tires0—000
1
ODI 745867

I HAD TO HAVE CONSTANT SERVICING DONE W/CAR IN SHOP OVER A 1 YR PERIOD FOR UP TO 1 WK @ A TIME W/ FAILURE IN SYSTEMS LISTED BRAKES & TIRES NOT COVERED W/WARRANTY THOUGH ONLY 4 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASE ANOTHE DEALER SERVICED CAR ORIG. DEALER WOULD NOT. *AK (TIRESIZE: 175-75-14)( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 175-75-14 )

Look up ODI 745867 at NHTSA ↗

00
Air Bags:Frontal00—00000
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Gasoline
1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

00—0
2
ODI 534043

VEHICLE'S ENGINE CONTINUALLY MAKES NOISE, LOUDER WITH AIR CONDITIONER RUNNING, UNABLE TO DETERMINE CAUSE.

Look up ODI 534043 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

0
Seats0000—000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components
1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 745867

I HAD TO HAVE CONSTANT SERVICING DONE W/CAR IN SHOP OVER A 1 YR PERIOD FOR UP TO 1 WK @ A TIME W/ FAILURE IN SYSTEMS LISTED BRAKES & TIRES NOT COVERED W/WARRANTY THOUGH ONLY 4 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASE ANOTHE DEALER SERVICED CAR ORIG. DEALER WOULD NOT. *AK (TIRESIZE: 175-75-14)( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 175-75-14 )

Look up ODI 745867 at NHTSA ↗

0
2
ODI 534043

VEHICLE'S ENGINE CONTINUALLY MAKES NOISE, LOUDER WITH AIR CONDITIONER RUNNING, UNABLE TO DETERMINE CAUSE.

Look up ODI 534043 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

0—
1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

0
Power Train:Automatic Transmission
1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

00
1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

0
1
ODI 898710

WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50MPH AND WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC WHEN TRANSMISSION LOCKED IN GEAR AND FAILED TO CHANGE.*AK CONSUMER STATED PRIOR TO PURCHASING VEHICLE SHE COMPLAINED OF A CLUNK NOISE WHEN CHANGED GEARS INTO REVERSE, ALSO THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS INOPERABLE, ALSO THE RIGHT SIDE MIRROR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, ENGINE MOUNTS WERE REPLACED,BRAKES WERE REPLACED, SERPENTINE BELT WAS CRACKED, ENGINE OVERHEATS.*SLC

Look up ODI 898710 at NHTSA ↗

—
1
ODI 606609

TRANSMISSION TEMPERATURE SENDER FAILED. *YC

Look up ODI 606609 at NHTSA ↗

Seat Belts:Front:Retractor000000
1
ODI 606609

TRANSMISSION TEMPERATURE SENDER FAILED. *YC

Look up ODI 606609 at NHTSA ↗

—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

8 patterns with matching reports.

Stalling or loss of power

9 mentions · 4.0% of complaints

Median mileage: 32,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10019532

THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. *JB

Look up ODI 10019532 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10031052

RANDOMLY, USUALLY ABOUT EVERY FEW MONTHS, I WILL START MY CAR. IT WILL START, BUT IT STARTS "FUNNY." IT DOESN'T HIT THE USUAL HIGH RPMS AND WILL IDLE LOW. IF I ATTEMPT TO DRIVE THE CAR, IT WILL USUALLY RUN WITH LOW RPMS. WHEN THE CAR COMES TO A STOP, IT WILL IDLE LOW AND SOMETIMES STALL. THE PROBLEM OCCURS IN ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS AND TEMPERATURES. IT ALSO OCCURS WHEN THE ENGINE IS HOT OR COLD. SOMETIMES IT TAKES 5-10 TRIES TO START THE CAR AT ALL. OF COURSE, MECHANICS ARE UNABLE TO REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM AND SAY NOTHING IS WRONG W…

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ODI 10086383 · 32,000 mi

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 DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. I'VE HAD THE FUEL PUMP, FUEL FILTER, OXYGEN SENSOR (TWICE), WIRES, SPARK PLUGS, ETC. REPLACED COSTING THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS. ONE MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT IT WAS "THE WAY I WAS DRIVING THE CAR!" THE MOST RECENT TIME I HAD MY 2 MONTH OLD I…

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Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b

Steering assistance concerns

7 mentions · 3.1% of complaints

Median mileage: 91,328 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10018432 · 91,328 mi

WE BROUGHT OUR SATURN INTO THE OAKLAND, CA DEALER FOR A TRANSMISSION DIAGNOSIS. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION HAS DEVELOPED SOME LEAKS AND CLUTCH / GEAR ASSEMBLY PROBLEMS. INITIAL QUOTE FROM THE DEALER SERVICE MANAGER FOR REPAIR IS $2600.00+. EXTENDED WARRANTY EXPIRED 12/31/02, AND THE CAR IS CURRENTLY AT THE 94,904 MILE MARK. AT THE 91,328 MILEAGE MARK, THE DEALER PERFORMED AN "87,000 MILE" SERVICE, NOT A "90,000 MILE" SERVICE. WHY DIDN'T THE SERVICE ADVISOR INFORM MY DAUGHTER THAT THE "90,000 MILE" SERVICE WAS DUE, WHICH INCLUDED A TRANSMISSION…

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ODI 550540

THE SERPENTINE BELT BECAME LOOSE AND THE AUTOMATIC BELT TENSIONER FELL APART CAUSING ALTERNATOR, WATER PUMP AND POWER STEERING INOPERABLE. YH

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ODI 744613

VEHICLE'S FULL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILS WHILE DRIVING, CLOCK EVEN RESETS. CAUSING CAR TO SHUT OFF. POWER STEERING/ BRAKES/ RADIO/ AIR CONDITIONER/ HEADLIGHTS, ETC. FAIL. BEGAN AROUND 30,000 MILES. BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR REPLACED, DOES NOT FIX PROBLEM.*AK

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Matching rule\b(power steer\w*|steering assist\w*|steering lock\w*|steering wheel lock\w*)\b

Brake response concerns

6 mentions · 2.6% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 531147

BRAKE FAILURE, CAUSING ACCIDENT.

Look up ODI 531147 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 721095

DURING A LEFT TURN DRIVING AT 15 TO 20 MILES PER HOUR, ATTEMPTING TO SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED ITS ENTIRE RANGE WITHOUT SLOWING OR STOPPING THE CAR. THE BRAKES WHERE THEN PUMPED SEVERAL TIMES WITHOUT SUCCESS, THE CAR WAS EVENTUALLY STOPPED BY USE OF THE PARKING BRAKE. *AK

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ODI 751296

SINCE 1999 THE ROTORS ON FRONT HAVE BEEN TURNED AND THEN REPLACED TWICE, ALONG WITH 3 SETS OF NEW BRAKES THAT WERE BAD WHEN TAKEN OFF, ALONG WITH THAT TIRE REPLACEMENT WAS DONE TWICE. NOW THERE IS A SEVERE VIBRATION THEN FOLLOWED BY A LOSS IN POWER AND RPM'S GO CONTINUOUSLY UP AND DOWN AND THE BRAKE PEDAL HARDENS UP.*AK

Look up ODI 751296 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(brake fail\w*|brakes fail\w*|brake pedal|braking distance|unintended braking|phantom braking)\b

Oil consumption or dilution

6 mentions · 2.6% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 10037051

EXCESS OIL CONSUMPTION: VEHICLE COULD STOP WITHOUT WARNING AS A RESULT OF ENGINE BURN-UP. SATURN DENIES RESPONSIBILITY FOR DEFECTIVE ENGINE.*AK

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ODI 10147800

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 THIS IS WHAT SATURNS DO. CAN THIS BE RIGHT TO THE CONSUMER. *NM

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ODI 6900680

ENGINE IS BURNING OIL. VEHICLE IS BURNING MORE OIL THAN REQUIRED. ALSO CONSUMER DOESN'T KNOW WHERE OIL IS GOING ,VEHICLE IS NOT LEAKING NOR SMOKING. CONTACTED DEALER, AND DEALER DID TEST ON ENGINE AND FOUND NOTHING WRONG.*AK

Look up ODI 6900680 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(oil consumption|burn\w* oil|consum\w* oil|oil dilution|gas(?:oline)? in (?:the )?oil)\b

Battery drain and no-start mentions

3 mentions · 1.3% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 10038848

1997 SL2 SATURN WOULD NOT START. BATTERY WOULD NOT HOLD CHARGE. HAD EARLY ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEMS (ACCESSORIES WOULD NOT FUNCTION, NO DASH LIGHTS). *PH

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ODI 10211850

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 REPLACED THE FUSE FOR THE WINDOWS, AND THE CAR STARTED, BUT NOW ONLY THE DRIVERS SIDE WINDOW WORKS. *TR

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ODI 722797

I HAVE EXPERIENCED LOSS OF POWER, NO START CONDITIONS,AND LONG PERIODS OF CRANK TIME,EVEN KILLING A BATTERY THAT I HAD TO PAY FOR! NOTIFIED MY DEALERSHIP AND THEY TOLD ME IF THEY---DETERMINED IT WASN'T THE FUEL PUMP, I WOULD HAVE TO PAY A SERVICE CHARGE !---AND I HAVE THE BEST EXTENDED WARRANTY THEY HAVE !

Look up ODI 722797 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(parasitic drain|battery drain\w*|dead battery|won.t start|would not start|no.start)\b

Fuel smell or leak mentions

1 mentions · 0.4% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 8015812

THERE WAS A STRONG SMELL OF FUEL COMING FROM THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE FUEL INJECTOR LEAKING FUEL ONTO THE ENGINE. CONTACTED DEALER, AND THE DEALER HAS SOLVED THE PROBLEM. *AK *SCC

Look up ODI 8015812 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(fuel leak\w*|gas leak\w*|gas(?:oline)? smell|smell\w* (?:of )?(?:fuel|gas))\b

Hard or delayed shifting

1 mentions · 0.4% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 857359

WHEN THE DRIVER'S SEAT IS ADJUSTED THE RIGHT SIDE DOES NOT LOCK. WHEN THE ACCELERATOR IS APPLIED THE SEAT WILL JERK . MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK

Look up ODI 857359 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(hard shift\w*|rough shift\w*|delay\w* shift\w*|shift\w* hard|jerk\w*|lurch\w*)\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

1 mentions · 0.4% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 813778

THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATES AT INTERVALS, INDICATING THAT MALFUNCTION EXIST WITHIN THE SYSTEM. DEALER REPLACED DEFECTIVE MODULE SENSOR. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK

Look up ODI 813778 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b