1998 Saturn Sc problems

Common 1998 Saturn Sc problems

The Saturn SC 1998 is known for several common problems, including issues with the engine coolant temperature sensor, fine wire electrode spark plugs, throttle position sensor, crankshaft position sensor, intake manifold gasket, coolant stem, coil springs, fuse block segment, and shifter cable bushing.

• Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Failure: The engine coolant temperature sensor is a universal problem in the Saturn SC 1998, with all of them eventually failing due to the use of plastic components. This failure can cause hard starting, rough idle, temperature gauge malfunction, poor fuel economy, and poor performance.

• Fine Wire Electrode Spark Plugs: The Saturn SC 1998 uses an early version of a distributorless ignition system, which is particular about the spark plugs used. Fine wire electrode spark plugs can cause problems, leading to a p0300 code and symptoms of a car needing new plugs. Using the original equipment spark plugs, such as NGK BKR5ESA-11 (DOHC) and BKR4ESA-11 (SOHC), is recommended.

• Throttle Position Sensor Failure: The throttle position sensor in the Saturn SC 1998 has a higher than normal failure rate. Symptoms of failure include a high idle, usually above 1600 RPM. If shutting off and restarting the car causes the idle to drop, it is likely the TPS. The aftermarket replacements have quality issues, so finding a low-mileage junkyard replacement or ordering the OE part is recommended.

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure: Crankshaft position sensor failure is not as common but still recurring in the Saturn SC 1998. The sensor usually fails when the engine is hot, causing the engine to die and not restart until it cools. Aftermarket replacements seem to work, but the problem can reoccur.

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: In 3rd generation (00-02) SOHC (Sx1) cars, there is a problem with the intake manifold gasket. The symptom is a sporadic or consistently high idle, p0300, p0301, or p0302. Spraying carb cleaner around the intake, specifically the #1 runner, can verify the problem. This issue is caused by a manufacturing error at the factory.

• Coolant Stem Leak: In 00-02 DOHC cars, there is a coolant stem leak around where the coolant hose runs into the manifold near cylinder #4. A product specifically designed to fix this problem is available.

• Broken Coil Springs: In 3rd generation (00-02) cars, broken coil springs can occur. If doing struts, replacing the springs with OE junkyard replacements from a gen-1 or gen-2 car is recommended.

• Fuse Block Segment Overheating: This problem is caused mainly by overdrawing from the 12v socket or high power aftermarket accessories drawing from the same circuit. The radio, chime module, dome light, 12v socket, and fuel pump are on this circuit. If the fuel pump stops working, it is likely due to this issue.

• Broken Shifter Cable Bushing (manual trans): The shifter cable bushing is made of plastic and eventually breaks, causing a loose or failed gear shift.

• Worn Pressure Regulator Valve and Reverse Boost Valve in the Auto Trans Valve Body: These components can wear out in the Saturn SC 1998, leading to issues with the transmission.

• Shifting Problems: Shifting problems, including difficulty shifting into first gear while stopped at a red light, have been reported in the Saturn SC 1998. A new clutch may be required to resolve this issue.

• Low to the Ground and Hard to Get In and Out Of: Some owners have reported that the Saturn SC 1998 is low to the ground and difficult to get in and out of, which can be a concern for taller individuals.

1998 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:

• Power train problems
• Engine and engine cooling problems
• Service brakes problems
• Steering problems
• Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Saturn Sc vehicle components and the number of complaints received.