1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2002 Saturn S-Series
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1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon ▼
- Price Range: $1,000 - $3,700
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (SL2/SW2)
- Fuel economy
- Optional antilock brakes and traction control
Cons
- Acceleration (SL/SL1/SW1 w/auto)
- Rear-seat comfort
- Noise
Vehicle Highlights
Saturn sedans and station wagons got a fresh look for 1996. Coupes took another year to get their equivalent redesign. Front and rear styling on the sedan echoed Saturn's initial themes, but the sedan got a more rounded roof, which created more head room for front and back seats. As before, all vertical panels (doors, fenders, and front/rear fascias) were made of plasticlike polymer material. The roof, hood, and trunk were made of steel. Lower-level models wore graphite-colored bumpers, whereas bumpers on upscale models were body-colored. Wheelbase of both the sedan and wagon was unchanged at 102.4 inches, but the new bodies were slightly longer and narrower. Doorways were enlarged. Dual airbags again were standard, and front seatbelts were now height-adjustable. Engines were carried over from the 1991-95 generation. A 100-horsepower, single-camshaft 1.9-liter 4-cylinder went into the SL and SL1 sedans and the SW1 wagon. A dual-overhead-cam version, rated at 124 horsepower, went into the SL2 sedan and SW2 wagon.Optional antilock brakes now included traction control, whether the car was equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission or the optional 4-speed automatic.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Saturn SL2 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 39 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon.
Year to Year Changes
1997 Saturn S-Series:
Except for a few equipment changes, Saturn sedans and wagons were unchanged this season.
1998 Saturn S-Series:
Structural changes to engine blocks and transmission cases aimed to reduce noise and increase durability. Wheel covers were redesigned, and automatic-transmission settings revised.
1999 Saturn S-Series:
Rear drum brakes now went into SL2 models with antilock braking, rather than the prior disc units.
2000 Saturn S-Series:
Sedans and wagons earned a freshening, with new lower-body styling that added 1.2 inches to overall length. Inside was a new instrument cluster, and the console held redesigned cupholders. The horn now worked via the steering-wheel hub rather than spoke buttons, and cruise control relocated from the hub to the spokes. Front seats gained more travel, and rear child-safety seats got top-tether anchors.
2001 Saturn S-Series:
These models offered optional curtain side airbags for 2001. And base SL sedan added standard features such as body-colored bumpers, right-side rearview mirror, and power steering.
2002 Saturn S-Series:
Saturn dropped the S-Series wagon body style for 2002. The S-Series would be replaced for 2003 by a redesigned model line called Ion.
Our road test for the 1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Engine and road noise were reduced with the 1996 redesign, but these cars still failed to head the subcompact class in terms of refinement. Both engines sound coarse and unrefined in hard acceleration. Engines did quiet down somewhat in 1998, but road noise remains considerable at highway speeds. The '99 models appear quieter yet--markedly closer to the competition, finally. Automatic-transmission operation also had been imperfect. Shift quality improved in this generation, and the 4-speed automatic is less harsh than before. This automatic transmission generally changes gears smoothly and downshifts promptly for passing. Acceleration is lively with an SL2 sedan or SW2 wagon with either transmission. Other models rank as adequate with manual shift, and markedly more sluggish with automatic. We've averaged more than 30 mpg in an SL2 with the 5-speed. A 1998 SL1 with manual shift averaged 28.9 mpg. An SL2 with automatic averaged a bit above 25 mpg. Different tires gave the SL2/SW2 models a more comfortable ride, with less impact harshness and thumping on rough pavement. These sedans and wagons corner with pleasing swiftness and control. Body lean in turns is less in the SL2 and SW2, and their tires hold out longer before squealing in protest when you try an overly quick corner. On all models, the suspension absorbs minor bumps well, but rough roads can cause abrupt, even harsh reaction, which are felt by occupants. Front head and leg room is sufficient for taller folks, and firm seats provide good lateral support. Back seat room is adequate for people under 5-foot-10 or so, provided the front seats aren't pushed back too far. The back seat is not particularly comfortable, and getting in and out is awkward because the door opening is narrow at the bottom. Dashboards flaunt large, clear gauges. Stereo and climate controls are mounted in a pod that protrudes from the dashboard, mounted too low for easiest access by the driver. Visibility is helped by the low dashboard and deep side windows, but the tail is too high to easily see straight rearward. Trunk space is adequate, and a low liftover eases the strain of loading/unloading luggage.
Value for the Money
Despite some real improvements, these sedans and wagons still lag behind such rivals as the Civic and Corolla.
Despite some real improvements, these sedans and wagons still lag behind such rivals as the Civic and Corolla.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Saturn SL2 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 4 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 39 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
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 |
Our price chart for this generation Saturn S-Series details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2002 | |||
| SL, SL1 | $3,200-3,800 | $2,500-3,000 | $800-1,000 |
| SL2 | $3,800-4,500 | $3,100-3,700 | $1,200-1,400 |
| 2001 | |||
| SL, SL1 | $2,800-3,400 | $2,100-2,600 | $600-700 |
| SL2 | $3,400-4,000 | $2,700-3,200 | $900-1,000 |
| SW2 wagon | $3,600-4,200 | $2,900-3,400 | $1,000-1,200 |
| 2000 | |||
| SL, SL1 | $2,500-3,000 | $1,800-2,200 | $500-600 |
| SL2 | $3,000-3,600 | $2,300-2,800 | $700-800 |
| SW2 wagon | $3,100-3,700 | $2,400-2,900 | $700-900 |
| 1999 | |||
| SL, SL1 | $2,200-2,700 | $1,600-1,900 | $400-500 |
| SL2 | $2,600-3,200 | $1,900-2,400 | $500-700 |
| SW1 wagon | $2,500-3,100 | $1,800-2,300 | $500-700 |
| SW2 wagon | $2,700-3,300 | $2,000-2,500 | $600-700 |
| 1998 | |||
| SL, SL1 | $1,900-2,400 | $1,300-1,700 | $300-400 |
| SL2 | $2,300-2,800 | $1,700-2,000 | $400-500 |
| SW1 wagon | $2,200-2,700 | $1,600-1,900 | $400-500 |
| SW2 wagon | $2,400-2,900 | $1,700-2,100 | $500-600 |
| 1997 | |||
| SL, SL1 | $1,700-2,200 | $1,100-1,500 | $300 |
| SL2 | $2,000-2,500 | $1,400-1,800 | $300-400 |
| SW1 wagon | $1,900-2,400 | $1,300-1,700 | $300-400 |
| SW2 wagon | $2,100-2,600 | $1,500-1,800 | $400-500 |
| 1996 | |||
| SL, SL1 | $1,500-2,000 | $1,000-1,300 | $200-300 |
| SL2 | $1,800-2,300 | $1,200-1,600 | $300 |
| SW1 wagon | $1,700-2,200 | $1,100-1,500 | $300 |
| SW2 wagon | $1,900-2,400 | $1,300-1,700 | $300-400 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Saturn S-Series include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 102.4 | 102.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 176.9 | 176.9 |
| Overall Width, in. | 66.7 | 66.7 |
| Overall Height, in. | 54.5 | 54.4 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2326 | 2392 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 12.1 | 24.9 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 12.1 | 12.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.3 | 39.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.5 | 42.5 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.0 | 38.7 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 32.8 | 32.8 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two 1.9-liter 4-cylinder engines were available under Saturn hoods. A single-overhead-cam version, rated at 100 horsepower, went into the SL and SL1 sedan and the SW1 wagon. The SL2 sedan and SW2 wagons got a dual-overhead-cam engine that made 124 horsepower. Any Saturn might have either a 5-speed manual transmission, or optional 4-speed automatic.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc I4 | 1.9 / 116 | 100 | 114 | 5-speed manual: 29/40 4-speed automatic: 27/36 |
5-speed manual: 28.9 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 1.9 / 116 | 124 | 122 | 5-speed manual: 25/35 4-speed automatic: 24/34 |
5-speed manual: 30 4-speed automatic: 25.1 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Saturn S-Series include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 SW |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | -- |
| Front Impact, Passenger | -- |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1996-2002 Saturn Sedan/Wagon directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1996 SL w/manual steering:
Pinion gear could disengage from steering rack under high steering-system load conditions, such as parking or low-speed maneuvers.
1996 SW1/SW2:
Welds between roof and reinforcement panels do not meet specifications; flange sides could partially separate in a crash.
1996-97 SL w/manual steering:
Pinion-bearing cage in steering gear can separate, disengaging and causing loss of control.
1996-97:
Horn could become inoperable or activate without pressing button; heat could build up, leading to an underhood fire.
1997:
Ignition key can be removed while cylinder is in "run" position.
1999-2000:
Some seatbelt shoulder-guide anchor bolts were inadequately tightened at center pillar and could fall out.
2000:
Armrest latch may open during a crash.
2000:
Some brake-pipe attachment nuts may have been improperly tightened; fluid leakage could occur.
2000:
Some rear-bumper fasteners could be loose or missing; rear bumper may not absorb energy as designed, in a rear-end collision.
2000:
Some welds in instrument-panel carrier assembly were not strong enough; occupant, especially if unbelted, may have increased risk of injury in frontal crash.
2000:
The fuel-tank Over Pressure Relief valve can become stuck open in a frontal collision, creating a fire hazard.
2001:
An improperly adjusted automatic transaxle park-lock assembly could allow the vehicle to be shifted out of "Park" with the ignition key removed.
2001:
An inadequate weld at the top of the fuel tank could allow fuel leakage in a rollover.
2002 sedan:
Welds between the door-striker and beltline do meet specifications. The seatbelt anchorage on the pillar could fail, increasing the risk of injury.
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