2003 Saturn L200 problems

Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

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Common 2003 Saturn L200 problems

The Saturn L200, produced in 2003, has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. While some owners have had positive experiences with their vehicles, others have faced significant issues that can impact the car's reliability and overall performance. Here are some of the most frequently reported problems with the 2003 Saturn L200:

Fuel System Problems: The fuel system has also been a source of concern for L200 owners, with some reporting issues such as fuel pump failures and malfunctions. These problems can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine damage.

Electrical System Issues: Electrical problems have been reported by many L200 owners, with issues such as flickering lights, failed modules, and computer malfunctions. These problems can affect various aspects of the car's performance and may require expensive repairs.

Transmission Issues: Transmission problems have been reported by some L200 owners, with issues such as hard shifting, communication failures, and solenoid malfunctions. These problems can affect the car's drivability and may require expensive repairs.

Ignition Module/Coil Failure: This is the most commonly reported problem for the Saturn L200, with a reported 42% of owners experiencing this issue. This problem can cause the check engine light to come on and result in misfires, which can lead to reduced performance and fuel efficiency.

While some owners have reported positive experiences with their 2003 Saturn L200, these common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and inspections to identify and address potential issues before they become more serious. It is also essential to consider the age and mileage of the vehicle, as well as the availability of parts, when considering purchasing a used L200.

Does a 2003 Saturn L200 have a timing belt or chain?

It's got a timing 'chain' no timing belt, no worries there. Water pump is externally mounted so it can be replaced as needed, no worries there either!

What is the problem with the 2003 Saturn Ion?

The 2003 (and 2004) Ion was cursed with GM's flawed attempt at a continuously variable transmission, known as the VTi. It had such a high failure rate that a class-action lawsuit was filed against GM, eventually prompting a settlement and a warranty extension.

Why won't my 2003 Saturn L200 start?

The most common reasons a Saturn L200 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.

How many gallons does a 2003 Saturn L200 hold?

Used 2003 Saturn L-Series L200 - Specs & Features

Fuel & MPG
EPA city/highway MPG	21/29 MPG
EPA combined MPG	24 MPG
Range in miles (city/hwy)	329.7/455.3 mi.
Fuel tank capacity	15.7 gal.

2003 Saturn L200 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Saturn L200.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2003 Saturn L200 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2003 Saturn L200.

2005-06-02

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
Summary: ON CERTAIN SEDANS AND WAGONS, THE PLASTIC HOUSING IN THE REAR TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CAN BECOME DISTORTED IF THE BRAKE LAMPS REMAIN ON FOR AN EXTENDED TIME.
Consequence: THIS CAN CAUSE (1) AN INTERMITTENTLY INOPERATIVE BRAKE/TAIL LAMP BULB OR (2) A SHORT CIRCUIT THAT OPENS A FUSE CAUSING INOPERATIVE BRAKE LAMPS (INCLUDING THE CENTER HIGH-MOUNTED STOP LAMP) OR TAIL LAMPS. A FOLLOWING DRIVER MAY NOT KNOW WHEN THE BRAKES HAVE BEEN APPLIED, AND A REAR-END CRASH COULD OCCUR WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL TWO NEW TAIL LAMP REINFORCING SOCKET ADAPTERS AND SOCKETS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 17, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.

2005-04-20

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: CERTAIN WAGONS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES." THE SEAT BELT ANCHOR MAY SEPARATE FROM THE FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE BEFORE HOLDING THE REQUIRED TEST LOAD FOR THE REQUIRED TIME.
Consequence: IF A SEPARATION OCCURRED IN CRASH, THE RIGHT AND CENTER REAR SEAT OCCUPANTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REAR SEAT CENTER BELT ANCHOR REINFORCEMENT PLATE TO THE FLOOR PAN OF THE VEHICLE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 25, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.

2003-06-23

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.2L L4 (L61) ENGINES, A FAILURE OF THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE MAY CAUSE DETERIORATION IN IDLE QUALITY, REDUCTION IN OVERALL ENGINE POWER, AND THE VEHICLE MAY BE HARD TO START. CONTINUED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE AFTER SUCH AN IGNITION MODULE FAILURE WILL RESULT IN THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" LIGHT FLASHING, AND MAY LEAD TO SECONDARY FAILURES OF THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, OXYGEN SENSOR, AND EXHAUST RESONATOR.
Consequence: FAILURE OF THE RESONATOR WILL CAUSE INCREASED EXHAUST NOISE. PROLONGED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE FOLLOWING A RESONATOR FAILURE MAY LEAD TO A FIRE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL (1) REPLACE THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE, (2) REPLACE THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE AND SPARK PLUGS, OR (3) REPLACE THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE, SPARK PLUGS, AND UPDATE THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE CALIBRATION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-553-6000, PROMPT 3.

2002-10-29

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES EXHIBIT A CONDITION IN WHICH THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR COULD FAIL DURING USE BECAUSE OF IMPROPER MANUFACTURE.
Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR IN SEVERE WEATHER, DRIVER VISIBILITY COULD BE REDUCED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE WIPER MOTOR ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 6, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-553-6000, PROMPT #3 OR HUMMER AT 1-866-486-6376.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2003 Saturn L200 problems:

Saturn L300 Questions - Common problems - CarGurus

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-c8249_ds554414

Jul 29, 2013 ... I got my 2003 Saturn l300 used. It started out on. But after sometime, I started getting an engine car light on my dash Everytime the car wanted ...

2003 Saturn L200 Reviews - Carsurvey.org

http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/saturn/l200/2003/

Mar 7, 2023 ... Faults: Fuel pump ($650.00) in 2009. Air conditioning, 3 times. It's hard on tires (a known problem). The car's computer (2013, $1000.00) ...

2003 Saturn L200 Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2003-saturn-l200/problems

Problem with your 2003 Saturn L200? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Saturn L200.

Q&A: 2003 Saturn L200 - Common Issues & Solutions

https://www.justanswer.com/car/1k472-2003-saturn-l200-w-60-000-miles-it-cut.html

Nov 11, 2008 ... This is caused by the throttle plate not seating properly. The First thing i would do is clean out the throttle body with some throttle plate ...

How Reliable is the Saturn L200? | Saturn Problems

http://www.saturnproblems.com/models/l200/

L200 owners have made 27 complaints over 3 model years. It ranks 17th in reliability out of 22 eligible Saturn models. Our reliability rank is based on our ...