1993 Saturn Sc problems

Common 1993 Saturn Sc problems

The Saturn SC 1993 is known to have several common problems, primarily related to engine performance, ignition, and transmission issues.

• Fine Wire Electrode Spark Plugs: The S-Series has an early version of a distributorless ignition system, which is particular about what spark plugs to use. Narrow fine wire electrodes almost always cause problems, usually a p0300 and running like the car needs new plugs. The easiest thing to do here is just use the OE spark plugs, they’re inexpensive and just work.

• Throttle Position Sensor Failure: These have a higher than normal failure rate. The symptom is high idle, 1600+ usually. If shutting off the car then restarting it causes the idle to drop back down, and the ECTS is good, it’s almost definitely the TPS. The aftermarket replacements have a quality problem; best bet is to find a low mileage junkyard replacement or order the OE part.

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure: Not hugely common, but still a recurring failure. They usually fail when the engine is hot. You’ll be driving along, and suddenly the engine dies, and won’t restart until it cools. The aftermarket replacements seem to work.

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: This problem occurs in 3rd generation (00-02) SOHC (Sx1) cars. The symptom is sporadic or consistently high idle, p0300, p0301, or p0302. Spray carb cleaner around the intake, specifically the #1 runner, if idle changes, the problem is verified.

• Broken Coil Springs: If you’re doing struts, replace the springs. OE junkyard replacements from a gen-1 or gen-2 car are your best bet.

• F6 (gen 1), F5 (gen 2), F2 (gen 3) IPJB fuse block segment overheating: This is caused mainly by overdrawing from the 12v socket, or high power aftermarket accessories drawing from the same circuit. There will be melted plastic around the fuse. The radio, chime module, dome light, 12v socket, and fuel pump are on this circuit. You will probably know about it when the fuel pump stops working.

• Broken Shifter Cable Bushing (manual trans): It’s made of plastic and eventually breaks. The gear shift will be loose and/or fail to shift completely. There is a stainless steel replacement here.

• Worn Pressure Regulator Valve and Reverse Boost Valve in the Auto Trans Valve Body: Unfortunately, this is a reality of these cars. There are no drain back holes in the pistons. This allows oil in the valve body to be pushed into the pistons when the car is shut off. When the car is started, the oil in the pistons has to go somewhere, and it usually goes into the valve body, causing these parts to wear out faster than they should.

These problems are not exhaustive, and other issues may arise with the Saturn SC 1993. However, these are some of the most common problems based on complaints from owners of this car.

1993 Saturn Sc car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Saturn Sc problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Seats problems
• Engine and engine cooling problems
• Service brakes problems
• Hydraulic problems
• Visibility problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Saturn Sc vehicle components and the number of complaints received.