2000 Saturn Sc1 problems

Common 2000 Saturn Sc1 problems

The 2000 Saturn SC1 has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to its engine and transmission.

One of the most common issues is a failed Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor and/or connector. This problem is universal and has affected many 2000 Saturn SC1s. When the sensor fails, it can cause hard starting, rough idle, temperature gauge not working, poor fuel economy, poor performance, and stumbling. The sensor is responsible for many of the computer's functions, and when it fails, coolant tends to leak through the sensor and damage the connector as well. If there is any sign of corrosion on the connector, it needs to be replaced.

Another common problem is with the 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. Without getting into too much detail, the basic requirement is the diameter of the electrode should be roughly the width of the ground. 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, which are inexpensive and just work.

The throttle position sensor has a higher than normal failure rate in the 2000 Saturn SC1. The symptom is high idle, usually 1600+. 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. IAC valves rarely fail on these cars. The aftermarket replacements have a quality problem; best bet is to find a low mileage junkyard replacement or order the OE part (~$70).

The crankshaft position sensor can also fail in the 2000 Saturn SC1, although it's not as common. 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.

The intake manifold gasket leak in 3rd generation (00-02) SOHC (Sx1) cars is another common problem. Something went wrong at the factory here. 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, problem is verified.

The 2000 Saturn SC1 can also have a crack in the coolant stem running into the intake manifold (00-02 DOHC only).

Broken coil springs in 3rd generation (00-02) cars are also a common problem. If you’re doing struts, replace the springs. OE junkyard replacements from a gen-1 or gen-2 car are your best bet.

The F6 (gen 1), F5 (gen 2), F2 (gen 3) IPJB fuse block segment overheating 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. It’s possible to re-spring the connector, or just replace the entire IPJB.

The broken shifter cable bushing (manual trans) is made of plastic and eventually breaks.

Worn pressure regulator valve and reverse boost valve in the auto trans valve body are also common problems in the 2000 Saturn SC1. 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 valves when the car is shut off, and when the car is started, the oil is forced out of the valves and into the transmission fluid. Over time, this can cause the valves to wear out and fail.

The 2000 Saturn SC1 can also have engine problems, such as vacuum leaks, dirty throttle bodies, IAC motor defects, and poor electrical connections on the IAC valve. These problems can cause the engine to rev high during idle or low during idle, stall when starting, and have a high idle after warming up. To test these items, you can spray throttle body cleaner around the intake manifold to see if it is leaking, clean the throttle body, and check for proper electrical connections at the IAC on the throttle body. The IAC and PCM communicate to ensure the idle speed is within range, and if the IAC is disconnected or has gone south, the communication is not there.

How long do Saturn cars last?

Older Saturns, especially the ones that are approaching 20 years old or older, should only be expected to last for another 3-5 years at most. Saturns that are only 10-11 years old will likely be good for 5-10 more years, but they will have slightly increased maintenance costs that whole time.

Why is my Saturn SL1 not starting?

The most common reasons a Saturn SL1 won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.

Why did Saturn cars fail?

Despite what you may read elsewhere, there were just two underlying forces behind Saturn's demise: GM's insistence on managing all its divisions centrally with a tight fist, and the demand by leadership at both GM and the UAW that Saturn get in line with traditional ways of doing things.

Is Saturn a reliable car?

Plus, for the most part, the cars were fairly reliable. Twin-cam models were consistently solid and although single-cam engines from 1992 to 1998 occasionally developed cylinder head cracks, that issue seemed to only affect a small percentage of Saturns.

2000 Saturn Sc1 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Saturn Sc1 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

• Electrical system problems
• Latches/locks/linkages problems
• Air bags problems
• Steering problems
• Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2000 Saturn Sc1 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.