2000-2005 Saturn L-Series: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2000-2005 Saturn L-Series and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (V6)
- Steering/handling
- Cargo room (wagon)
Cons
- Rear-seat comfort
- Noise
Vehicle Highlights
The L-Series sedan and station wagon could have a V6 instead of the four cylinder common to the smaller S-Series. The new front-drive midsize 4-door sedan and wagon were based on the German-made Opel Vectra. Assembled in Delaware, the L-Series used Saturn's familiar dent- and rust-resistant polymer panels for front fenders, doors, and bumper fascias. Other body parts were made of steel. Sedans came in LS, LS1, and LS2 form. Wagons were named LW1 and LW2. LS, LS1, and LW1 models used a new GM 4-cylinder engine. The LS2 and LW2 borrowed a 3.0-liter V6 from Saab, another GM company, but omitted Saab's turbocharger. LS and LS1 vehicles could have 5-speed manual shift or a 4-speed automatic transmission; the others were automatic-only. All models seated five and had 60/40 split folding rear seatbacks. LS2 and LW2 versions had 4-wheel disc brakes. Antilock brakes were optional, coupled with traction control.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Saturn L300 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 53 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2000-2005 Saturn L-Series. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2000-2005 Saturn L-Series.
Year to Year Changes
2001 Saturn L:
Inflatable side-curtain airbags became optional on all models for 2001. All L-Series models were renamed. Instead of LS, LS1, and LS2, the sedans now were known as L100, L200, and L300, respectively. Wagons switched from LW1 and LW2 to LW200 and LW300. Models with "100" and "200" suffixes had a 4-cylinder engine, while "300" designated vehicles came with the 3.0-liter V6.
2002 Saturn L:
Curtain side airbags were among previously optional features made standard for 2002. And added midyear was an optional rear-seat DVD video entertainment system. Other new options included a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, and, at midyear, an automatic climate system.
2003 Saturn L:
All models gained a chrome grille, larger headlights, and revised rear appearance. Silver-colored plastic console and instrument-panel trim is new. Sixteen-inch alloy wheels replace 15s on 300 models; the 16s are optional on 200s.
2004 Saturn L:
The L-Series gets renamed L300 in 2004. Also new is the return to standard antilock brakes, which were optional last year.
2005 Saturn L:
Wagon models were dropped, leaving only sedans for the L-Serie's final season.
Our road test for the 2000-2005 Saturn L-Series includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2000-2005 Saturn L-Series and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2000-2005 Saturn L-Series is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
A reasonably accomplished performer, the L-Series is distinguished by fine handling. Opel-derived suspension tuning pays off in impressive high-speed stability. These midsize Saturns corner with confidence and modest body lean. Steering is linear and communicative, though it may feel heavy at low speeds. Some 4-cylinder stick-shift models have felt too light at high speeds. Sedans and wagons handle nearly identically, though wagons ride marginally stiffer. Neither absorbs bumps as well as a Camry. Buyers get a firm, Eurostyle ride in exchange for sporty road manners. Stopping power and pedal feel are impressive. Saturn has claimed that the volume-leading LS1/L200 with automatic takes 9.8 seconds to reach 60 mph, while a V6/automatic LS2/L300 did it in 8.2. Some early V6 models showed poor throttle response at takeoff and slow downshifts when passing, but others felt spry even in hilly terrain. A test V6/automatic sedan averaged 19 mpg, while a 4-cylinder/automatic wagon got an impressive 26.6 mpg. L-Series models are as quiet as most competitors. Road, wind, and engine noise are well-muffled. The 4-cylinder engine sounds richer under hard throttle than the V6. Four adults have as much room as in an Accord or Camry, even if the L-Series does not match their interior refinement. Cloth seats are more supportive than the optional leather. Rear leg space is ample, with head clearance for 6-footers, but the cushion is soft and low. Vision directly rearward is constricted by the high deck. Instruments are large and clear. Sedans have a large, accessible trunk. Interiors have a low-budget look. Door handles are uninviting plated plastic, and audio controls are small and plasticky.
Value for the Money
Though not class leaders, L-Series models satisfy in most performance areas. Although cabins are roomy, they're furnished modestly. New-car prices undercut those of comparable Accord and Camry models, and Saturns are likely to remain lower than those competitors on the used-car market.
Though not class leaders, L-Series models satisfy in most performance areas. Although cabins are roomy, they're furnished modestly. New-car prices undercut those of comparable Accord and Camry models, and Saturns are likely to remain lower than those competitors on the used-car market.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Saturn L300 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 6 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 53 |
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 L includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Saturn L .
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.
Climate control:
The HVAC blower may only operate on high, requiring replacement of the resistor card. (2000)
Coolant leak:
Coolant leaks into engine require new intake manifold gasket. (2000-01)
Electrical problem:
Chafed wires for the cooling fan cause the No. 1 fuse to blow. The wires were being lengthened with splices. (2000)
Exhaust system:
Exhaust manifold bolts work loose causing noise that may be misdiagnosed as lifter tap. (2002-04)
Hood/trunk:
A shorter release cable is available for the hood release. (2000)
Oil consumption:
The oil-filter cap can be damaged if an open-end wrench or adjustable wrench is used to remove the cap. Only a socket wrench or cap-style oil-filter tool are acceptable. (2000-01)
Seat:
The power seat may stop working because the wiring harness chafes the seat assembly. (2000-01)
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 | $475 |
| Alternator | $260 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,110 |
| Brakes | $360 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $570 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $770 |
| Exhaust System | $370 |
| Radiator | $350 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $490 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $280 |
Our price chart for this generation Saturn L details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| L300 | $9,000-10,200 | $8,100-9,200 | $4,700-5,300 |
| 2004 | |||
| L300, LW300 4-cyl. | $7,000-7,900 | $6,200-7,000 | $3,300-3,700 |
| L300, LW300 V6 | $8,000-9,500 | $7,200-8,600 | $4,100-4,800 |
| 2003 | |||
| L200, LW200 | $5,200-6,000 | $4,400-5,100 | $2,100-2,400 |
| L300, LW300 | $6,200-7,000 | $5,400-6,100 | $2,700-3,000 |
| 2002 | |||
| L100, L200, LW200 | $3,800-4,500 | $3,100-3,700 | $1,200-1,400 |
| L300, LW300 | $5,000-5,800 | $4,300-4,900 | $2,000-2,300 |
| 2001 | |||
| L100, L200, LW200 | $3,100-3,800 | $2,400-3,000 | $700-900 |
| L300, LW300 | $4,000-4,700 | $3,300-3,900 | $1,300-1,500 |
| 2000 | |||
| LS, LS1, LW1 | $2,600-3,200 | $1,900-2,400 | $500-700 |
| LS2, LW2 | $3,400-4,000 | $2,700-3,200 | $900-1,000 |
|
|
|||
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 L include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 106.5 | 106.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 190.4 | 190.4 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.0 | 69.0 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.4 | 57.3 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2910 | 3075 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 17.5 | 71.3 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 13.1 | 13.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.3 | 39.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.2 | 42.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.0 | 39.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.4 | 37.0 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Model numbers indicate the type of engine in a Saturn L-Series. A 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine, rated at 137 horsepower, was installed in LS and LS1 sedans, and the LW1 wagon (later called L100, L200, and LW200, respectively). Either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission was available. The LS2 sedan and LW2 wagon (renamed L300 and LW300 for 2001) used a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produced 182 horsepower and came only with automatic.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.2 / 134 | 135-137 | 142-147 | 5-speed manual: 24/32 4-speed automatic: 23/32 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 26.6 |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 183 | 182 | 190 | 4-speed automatic: 20/26 | 4-speed automatic: 19 |
|
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 L include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2000 SL |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
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 2000-2005 Saturn L-Series directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2000 LS:
Certain vehicles have inoperative valve within fuel-tank assembly, which can result in fuel spillage in a rollover incident.
2000 LS:
Turn-signal lamps may not work, or work intermittently, when driver uses turn-signal lever or hazard-warning switch.
2000 w/TRW seatbelt-buckle assemblies:
Seatbelt-buckle assemblies fail to conform to Federal requirements, because buckle base was not properly heat treated.
2000 w/automatic transmission:
Transaxle shift-cable clip may be missing or improperly seated, allowing cable to slip out of bracket; driver may put lever into "Park," but transaxle may be in Reverse or Neutral.
2000:
Over Pressure Relief valve in fuel tank can become stuck open in a frontal collision; if vehicle rolls over, fuel spillage could occur.
2000-02 Sedan:
Some plastic housings in taillamp assembly can become distorted if brake lamps remain on for an extended time; can cause intermittent lamp operation or short-circuit that leads to inoperative lamps.
2000-03 2.4L engines:
Ignition-control module may fail. The "Service Engine Soon" light will go on, and the vehicle will be hard to start. Dealers will inspect and replace all affected parts.
2001 L-Series with 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine:
Links in the engine's timing chain can separate, causing the engine to stall and not restart. Dealers will replace the timing chain.
2001:
Small number of vehicles may have passenger-airbag-inflator module with incorrect amount of generant.
2002-04 Wagon:
Seat belt anchor may separate from floor of vehicle before holding required test load for the required time.
2003:
Windshield-wiper motor could fail, resulting in loss of visibility. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
2003-04 Wagon:
Some plastic housings in taillamp assembly can become distorted if brake lamps remain on for an extended time; can cause intermittent lamp operation or short-circuit that leads to inoperative lamps.
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