1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
2002 Saturn S-Series
View the Photo Gallery
View the Photo Gallery
1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon ▼
- Price Range: $1,000 - $3,700
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to Saturn S-Series
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our reliability study for this generation Saturn S-Series includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Saturn S-Series .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
Air conditioning stops blowing cold air after highway driving because evaporator freezes up requiring adjustment of compresses suction set point. (1996-97)
Air conditioner:
A simple adjustment to compressor may prevent air conditioner evaporator freeze-up. (1996-2001)
Air conditioner:
The air conditioning may stop working when the car is driven for extended times on the highway because the evaporator freezes up. (1997-98)
Automatic transmission:
Cars with automatic transmissions may leak fluid from the upper, left-hand corner where the case was not manufactured properly. (1997-98)
Coolant leak:
Coolant leaks into engine require new intake manifold gasket. (2000-01)
Electrical problem:
If rear wiper, speakers, fuel gauge stop working, wiring harness near left kick panel may be chafing on bracket. (1996-99)
Electrical problem:
Electrical accessories may quit working. The lock will have to be repaired. On some models, the key won't turn back to the lock position. (1997)
Engine misfire:
The engine may stall or quit running as if it has run out of gas even though the gauge shows 1/8-1/4 tank; caused by a plugged evaporative emissions canister vent. (1997)
Engine temperature:
Overheating and possible engine failure on 1.9-liter engine may be caused by coolant leaks past intake manifold gasket near cylinder #4. (2000-01)
Exhaust system:
Exhaust manifold bolts work loose causing noise that may be misdiagnosed as lifter tap. (2002)
Hard starting:
If a car with a manual transmission won't start, the wiring harness was probably damaged by rubbing on the clutch-pedal pivot causing a short circuit. (1997-98)
Windows:
The side windows may not go up or down, or they may rattle because the glass comes loose from the regulator. (1997-98)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $400 |
| Alternator | $350 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $915 |
| Brakes | $190 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $530 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $390 |
| Exhaust System | $310 |
| Radiator | $350 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $490 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $300 |
Advertisement
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
