2004 Saturn L300 problems

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2004 Saturn L300

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Common 2004 Saturn L300 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2004 Saturn L300, common problems with this car include issues with the engine, fuel system, and drivetrain. Here is a detailed breakdown of each problem:

  1. Engine Issues:
    • Complaints about the engine in the 2004 Saturn L300 include rough engine running, engine stalling, white smoke from the tailpipe, and severe vibrations at highway speeds. These issues can significantly impact the performance and reliability of the vehicle, leading to potential safety concerns and costly repairs.
  2. Fuel System Problems:
    • Owners have reported issues related to the fuel system of the 2004 Saturn L300. Problems with the fuel system can cause poor fuel efficiency, engine misfires, starting difficulties, and overall performance issues. Addressing fuel system problems promptly is crucial to ensure the proper functioning of the vehicle.
  3. Drivetrain Concerns:
    • The drivetrain problems in the 2004 Saturn L300 can manifest as transmission issues, such as difficulty shifting gears, transmission slipping, or failure to engage properly. Drivetrain problems can affect the overall drivability of the vehicle and may require immediate attention to prevent further damage.

By addressing these common problems with the 2004 Saturn L300 based on owner complaints, it is essential for potential buyers and current owners to be aware of these issues to make informed decisions regarding maintenance, repairs, and overall vehicle reliability.

2004 Saturn L300 engine

What is the value of a 2004 Saturn L300?

The value of a used 2004 Saturn L300 ranges from $445 to $2,078, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.

Why wont my Saturn L300 start?

The most common reasons a Saturn L300 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.

Where was the Saturn L300 made?

Wilmington, Delaware

The Saturn L series is a line of automobiles, sedans and station wagons that were made by Saturn Corporation in Wilmington, Delaware. Poor sales of the L-series cars caused GM to cancel the line for 2005.

How much does a 2001 Saturn L300 weight?

Used 2001 Saturn L-Series Sedan L300 - Specs & Features

Dimensions
Turning circle36.6 ft.
Ground clearance5.7 in.
Curb weight3,183 lbs.
Country of final assemblyUnited States

2004 Saturn L300 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Saturn L300.

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

2004 Saturn L300 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2004 Saturn L300.

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.

Negative 2004 Saturn L300 car reviews

  1. Rowland DuBuque 2025-01-11

    I've been driving this car for 4 years and I absolutely love it! It feels great on the road and was very affordable. Even though I have the 4-cylinder baseline version, I've used this thing for hauling a good amount of stuff, including people that shouldn't have been riding in the back. However, I do have a few issues with the car. The interior materials are a bit cheap, which makes the seats a bit uncomfortable and it isn't all that durable. Additionally, I must admit that repairs are getting to be very expensive for this car, especially since the L-series didn't exactly sell gangbusters, which means parts are getting increasingly hard to find.

  2. Willis Nolan 2024-10-03

    I've had my car for about 9 months and I'm already considering new cars. While I love the classy design of the Saturn, I find it uncomfortable to drive for long periods of time due to limited seat movement for the driver. Despite some errors and redos during the deal, the dealership was great overall. However, the process took over 4 months to finalize, which made me quite nervous.

  3. Gregory Hermiston 2024-07-15

    I've had my L300 for almost a year now and it's been great, except for when I got into an accident. Unfortunately, the body didn't hold up as well as I had hoped. While the infrastructure is solid, the cosmetic damage was extensive and it feels like it's barely holding together. I'm a bit disappointed with the fuel economy, and I've also been experiencing some issues with oil and coolant leaks. Overall, I'm not sure if I would purchase this car again.

  4. Zachariah Daugherty 2024-01-23

    After only 43,000 miles, the 2.2 4 cylinder engine has developed a major oil leak around the lower crankcase. This is an unacceptable level of reliability from Saturn.

Positive 2004 Saturn L300 car reviews

  1. Webster Marquardt 2025-04-01

    I appreciate your opinion on the Edmunds.com review of the Saturn L300 sedan. From my experience, I find the car to be of high quality with excellent build and top-rated materials and features. The plush and comfortable leather seats, powerful and responsive 3.0L engine, and great handling make it one of the best cars I've ever driven. Despite its spacious interior and adequate trunk, it still retains a small car feel, which I personally find convenient for parking.

  2. Colin Little 2025-03-14

    We have a Saturn L300.1 2004 wagon and a 2-year-old Volvo V70. The cars are basically identical in size and function, but the Saturn cost about half the price of the Volvo!! The Saturn rides and handles better, has better exterior and dash styling, and gets better mileage. Although the Volvo is smoother and more refined, has a bit more power, better heater controls, came with better tires, and has better seats, I still prefer driving the Saturn. It was an easy fix to replace the tires on the Saturn. When it comes to value, there's just no comparison.

  3. Kenneth Maggio 2025-03-13

    We bought two Saturns at the same time, an Ion 3 and an L-300. Although we no longer have the Ion, we have paid off the L series and have decided to keep it. The car has just about every feature someone could desire, making it one of the best values ever offered. The safety ratings are also impressive. We put a set of Voxx wheels and Michelin tires on it, and no one could believe the true difference they made in the overall appearance. The fuel economy at 24 mpg is totally in line, and we have taken it from Florida to New Jersey several times with very sufficient comfort level (I am 215lbs). While it may not be a Lexus or Cadillac, for what it is, we feel there is no better car out there. We plan to hold on to this car.

  4. Ransom Kerluke 2025-03-10

    Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with the L series Saturn. I bought it because I was looking for a car that was both fuel-efficient and enjoyable to drive. So far, I've only driven it for 6000 miles and I haven't had any issues at all! Despite being a four-cylinder car, it can definitely keep up with the big boys on the road. I'm getting 20 miles per gallon or better in town, and 25 miles per gallon or better on the highway. I've owned Chevys, Dodges, and Pontiacs before, and I can honestly say that this car is just as good as any of them. Thanks for listening!

  5. Hector Konopelski 2025-03-10

    Hey there! Just wanted to let you know that I no longer own the car in question.

Leave your review of 2004 Saturn L300

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2004 Saturn L300 problems:

Saturn L300 Questions - Common problems - CarGurus
Saturn L300 Questions - Common problems - CarGurus
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-c8249_ds554414

Jul 29, 2013 ... Common problems - Thinking about buying a used 03 Saturn L series 300 with 123000 miles on it. It sounds good and drives nicely but I am ...

2004 Saturn L300 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
2004 Saturn L300 Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2004-saturn-l300/problems

Problem with your 2004 Saturn L300? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2004 Saturn L300.

Common Saturn L300 Problems - 2004 Saturn L300 Intermittent Issue
Common Saturn L300 Problems - 2004 Saturn L300 Intermittent Issue
https://www.justanswer.com/saturn/8gcqb-saturn-l300-2004-saturn-l300-intermitent-problem.html

May 17, 2014 ... What I have found is the master cylinder is bypassing pressure internally. The most common cause would be one of the cup seals in the master ...

2004 Saturn L-Series Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2004 Saturn L-Series Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/saturn/l-series/2004/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2004 Saturn L-Series? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...

Q&A: Saturn L300 2003 Lights Flicker On/Off - Interior, Problems, Ion ...
Q&A: Saturn L300 2003 Lights Flicker On/Off - Interior, Problems, Ion ...
https://www.justanswer.com/saturn/83odx-saturn-l300-2003-saturn-l300-lights-flicker-off-on.html

Nov 8, 2013 ... I see Saturn have lot of electrical issues with their cars Jim ... Have you worked on Saturns, cause this is a common problem with this car.

Other years of Saturn L300

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