2001 Saturn Sl problems
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Common 2001 Saturn Sl problems
The Saturn SL 2001 is known to have several common problems that affect its performance and reliability. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners:
- Oil consumption: One of the most common problems with the Saturn SL 2001 is oil consumption. Many owners report that their cars consume a significant amount of oil, often requiring frequent top-ups. In some cases, the oil consumption can be severe, leading to engine damage. This issue is often attributed to the single cam engine, which is prone to head cracking.
- Idling problems: Some owners report that their Saturn SL 2001 has trouble idling, especially when the car is at a stop or in neutral. This problem can often be fixed by replacing the water temp sensor, which is fragile and prone to cracking. However, in some cases, the motor mounts and tranny mounts may also need to be replaced, especially if the car has been driven for more than 150,000 miles.
- Fuel filter: The fuel filter on the Saturn SL 2001 is located along the driver side front fender inside. Replacing the fuel filter can be a DIY task, taking about 30 minutes to complete.
- Idle pulley bearings: The idle pulley bearings on the Saturn SL 2001 can go out around the 200,000-mile marker. When this happens, the pulley and belt should be replaced to prevent further damage.
- Valve body: The valve body on the top of the transmission can cause hard shifts, especially in older cars with more than 150,000 miles. This problem is best fixed by someone with experience, as the valve body contains small parts that can be easily damaged.
- Valve cover gasket: The valve cover gasket on the Saturn SL 2001 is prone to blowing, especially in cars with high mileage. Replacing the gasket can be a DIY task, but it's important to ensure that all parts are properly torqued to prevent leaks.
- Rust: Driving on salted roads can lead to rust on the body of the Saturn SL 2001, making it undriveable over time. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent rust, but it's important to check for signs of rust regularly.
- Alternator: Some owners report that the alternator on the Saturn SL 2001 can go out, especially in cars with high mileage. Replacing the alternator can be a DIY task, but it's important to ensure that all connections are properly tightened to prevent further damage.
- Fuel pump relay: The fuel pump relay on the Saturn SL 2001 can fail, causing the car to experience the same symptoms as a fuel pump failure. Replacing the relay can be a DIY task, but it's important to ensure that all connections are properly tightened to prevent further damage.
- Vapor lock: The Saturn SL 2001 can experience vapor lock on very hot days, causing the car to experience the same symptoms as a fuel pump failure. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty fuel pump relay or a clogged fuel filter.
In general, the Saturn SL 2001 is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. However, like any car, it can experience a variety of problems, especially as it ages and accumulates mileage. Regular maintenance and preventative measures can help prevent many of these issues, but it's important to be aware of the potential problems and to address them promptly if they do occur.
Are Saturns reliable cars?
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.
How long is the life expectancy of a Saturn car?
Best Answer
Actually you can get up 400,000 miles out of that car if you take care of it & change the fluids regularly just like any car proper maintenance see & what happens good luck !
Who made the Saturn SL2 engine?
The powerplant used in Saturn S-Series automobiles was a straight-4 aluminum piston engine produced by Saturn, a subsidiary of General Motors. The engine was only used in the Saturn S-series line of vehicles (SL, SC, SW) from 1991 through 2002.
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.
2001 Saturn Sl car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Saturn Sl problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Saturn Sl vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2001 Saturn Sl
The NHTSA has received 128 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Saturn Sl. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2001 Saturn Sl vehicles.
2024-01-15
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-08
- VIN: 1G8ZJ52771Z
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The problem is with the Firestone Tempa Spare T115/70 R14 spare tire. This tire came with the car when new, and has never been used. Tire date of manufacture is 42 2000. I periodically check its air pressure, but it has never been out of the spare tire well. I checked the pressure 1 week ago, and found a large bulge in the tread, along with broken cords, both steel, and polyester (see photos). The inner tire liner has not ruptured, and the tire still holds air. One month ago I checked the pressure, and it looked completely normal. If I had a flat tire then, I would have put it on the car without hesitation. I suspect that it would have failed on the road leading to a possible disaster. My reason for alerting NHTSA is that I suspect there are many compact spare tires in people's trunks, in the same condition, just waiting to cause trouble. I brought it to a Firestone store and they showed no interest in it. I have removed the tire from the steel wheel, and you are welcome to have it to inspect. I live about 25 miles south of Chicago, IL. When you look at the attached photos, numbers 1-3 show the tire on the steel wheel with the tire inflated, number 4 shows the tire deflated, and off the wheel.
2018-03-25
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-09
- Crash: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE SOO MUCH PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR
2016-02-14
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-19
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: MY SATURN THAT I'VE BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT A YEAR AND A HALF NOW, COMPLETELY CUT OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF ME DRIVING IT. LUCKILY I WAS AT A DRIVE THEY SO SO SERIOUS DAMAGE TO ME OR ANYONE ELSE. COULD NOT GET IT TO START BACK UP FOR A GOOD 5-10 MINS. ALSO THE TRANSMISSION IS GOING OUT IN IT AND I'M CONSTANTLY HAVING TO ADD FLUID SO IT DOESNT SKIP. THE REAR TAIL LIGHTS KEEP HAVING TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE THEY KEEP BLOWING OUT.
2015-06-16
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-09
- VIN: 1G8ZF52821Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY KEY COMES OUT THE IGNITION IN THE RUN POSITION, WHEN THE CAR IS RUNNING. I AM ORIGINAL OWNER SINCE NEW. THIS STARTED ABOUT THE YEAR OF 2009 AT ABOUT 65,000 MILES. I HAVE 165,000 MILES ON THE CAR NOW.
2015-06-01
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-01
- VIN: 1G8ZJ54731Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I HAVE TROUBLE TURNING THE IGNITION SWITCH. ONCE STARTED THE KEYS CAN FALL OUT OF THE SWITCH. PLEASE ADD THIS TO THE IGNITION RECALL BECAUSE I DON'T WANT TO DIE!!!
2015-05-04
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-01
- VIN: 1G8ZK52721Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SATURN SL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE IGNITION WAS TURNED TOWARDS THE ON POSITION, IT WAS DIFFICULT TO TURN THE KEY AND IT TOOK NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS TO START THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY WAS REMOVED WITHOUT THE IGNITION BEING TURNED TO THE OFF POSITION. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHILE REFUELING THE FUEL TANK, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO INDICATE WHEN THE FUEL TANK WAS FUEL CAUSING FUEL TO SPILL. THE FAILURES RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 142,000. UPDATED 7/7/15*CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD SHUT OFF, WHEN SHE APPROACHED A STOP SIGN. UPDATED 08/06/15*JB
2014-11-02
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-16
- VIN: 1G8ZK52751Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER THE KEY IS INSERTED IN THE IGNITION CYLINDER IT WILL NOT ENGAGE AND TURN TO START THE VEHICLE. THE LOCK REMAINS STUCK IN THE "OFF" POSITION. OVER THE PAST SEVERAL MONTHS THE PROBLEM HAS BECOME CONSISTENTLY WORSE. WE HAVE BEEN STRANDED NUMEROUS OCCASIONS UNABLE TO START THE VEHICLE. WHILE THE VEHICLE IS RUNNING WE ARE ABLE TO REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. I HAVE RESEARCHED THE INTERNET AND FOUND THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH SATURN'S VEHICLES. *TR
2014-10-13
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-09
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: OUR DAUGHTER WAS INVOLVED IN A MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT ON 10/9/2014. A VEHICLE PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF HER. OUR DAUGHTER WAS NOT ABLE TO STOP IN TIME AND HIT THE VEHICLE WITH THE FRONT END OF THE SATURN TO THE DRIVERS DOOR OF THE OTHER VEHICLE. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY BUT WE BELIEVE THEY SHOULD HAVE. OUR DAUGHTER SUSTAINED INJURIES. *TR
2014-10-04
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-29
- VIN: 1G8ZH52881Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I TOOK MY SATURN IN FOR REPAIR BECAUSE I WAS HAVING TROUBLE WITH THE IGNITION AND STARTING MY CAR. THE DEALER SAID THAT THE IGNITION CYLINDER BINDING AND COLUMN WAS LOOSE. THEY REPLACED THE CYLINDER AND CODE CYLINDER AND SECURED THE STEERING WHEEL COLUMN. NOW THE SAME IGNITION PROBLEM IS BACK BUT EVEN WORSE. IT TAKES A SERIES OF SHAKES OF MY KEY AND MOVING THE STEERING WHEEL TO EVEN START THE CAR! I HOPE THAT I WON'T GET STRANDED SOMEWHERE WHEN THIS CAR WON'T START!!! *TR
2014-09-16
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-04
- VIN: 1G8ZY12721Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SATURN SL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH, THE KEY INTERMITTENTLY RELEASED FROM THE IGNITION. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON TWO OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
2014-08-27
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-26
- VIN: 1G8ZF52821Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE SECURITY LIGHT ON THE DASH BOARD TURN ON AND THE WHEEL TURN TO THE RIGHT SIDE BY IT SELF AND THE CAR TURN OFF AND WON'T START AGAIN UNTIL THE SECURITY LIGHT IS OFF. THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THAT HAPPENED WILE DRIVING WITH MY SON INSIDE THE CAR. *TR
2014-07-26
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-25
- VIN: 1G8ZH52821Z
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A LIGHT UP TO ~20MPH THERE WAS THE SMELL OF BRAKE FLUID/RUBBER BURNING. WHEN TRAFFIC SLOWED AGAIN BRAKES HAD NO RESPONSE EVEN WHEN PRESS ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. CAR WAS STOPPED IN TIME TO AVOID ACCIDENT BY APPLICATION OF EMERGENCY BRAKE AND PLACING THE CAR IN NEUTRAL. PUMPING THE BRAKES FAILED TO REGAIN PRESSURE THOUGH AFTER DRIVING TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH EBRAKE AND RESTARTING CAR A HARD PUMP OF THE BRAKES HAD SOME RESISTANCE. FURTHER CAUTIOUS DRIVING AND PRESSURE REBUILT. AFTER INSPECTION AT THE SHOP NO EXPLANATION FOR THE EVENT COULD BE FOUND. *TR
2014-07-12
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-07
- VIN: 1G8JW52R91Y
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
- Summary: 1ST INCIDENT: I WENT IN TO THE SATURN DEALER FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND THE DEALER FOUND A FUEL LEAK BETWEEN THE TANK AND THE FILTER. THERE WAS FUEL ON TOP OF THE TANK TOP AND ALSO DRIPPING DOWN THE SIDE. THE DEALER SAID THERE WAS A CRACKED LINE IN THE FUEL SYSTEM CLOSE TO THE TANK TOP. I HAD TO REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP ASSEMBLY IN ORDER TO REPAIR THE LEAK OF MY POCKET AS IT WAS NOT COVERED BY THE WARRANTY. 2ND INCIDENT: YESTERDAY I WENT FOR A STATE INSPECTION AT THE LOCAL CHEVROLET DEALER THAT TAKES CARE OF MY SATURN AND THEY REPORTED THAT I HAVE A FUEL TANK LEAKING AND HAVE TO REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP. BECAUSE OF THIS IT FAILED THE STATE INSPECTION. MY CAR CURRENTLY HAS ONLY 41152 MILES ON IT AND IS DRIVEN MOSTLY FOR PLEASURE. IS THERE A CURRENT RECALL ON THE FUEL PUMP ASSEMBLY OR THE FUEL TANKS OF THE SATURN L300 SERIES? *TR
2014-05-13
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-02
- VIN: 1G8JT52F71Y
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SATURN SL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ANTI THEFT WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE IGNITION WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 72,000.
2014-04-24
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-21
- VIN: 1G8ZK52771Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FOR SOME TIME NOW MY HORN IS UNRELIABLE. I WAS BEHIND A CAR THAT WAS ATTEMPTING TO REVERSE AND WAS TRYING TO ALERT THEM OF MY PRESENCE AND MY HORN WOULD NOT WORK. I REPEATEDLY KEPT PRESSING THE HORN ICON ON THE STEERING WHEEL AND NOTHING HAPPENED. I WAS LUCKY THAT A PERSON WALKING NOTICED AND ALERTED THE DRIVER IN FRONT OF ME. ANOTHER TIME I WAS AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT AND THE PERSON IN FRONT OF ME WAS DISTRACTED WITH SOMETHING IN THEIR CAR AND THE LIGHT WAS GREEN AND I HAD CARS LINED UP BEHIND ME, I TRIED TO BLOW MY HORN TO ALERT THEM OF THE LIGHT CHANGE, NO HORN. AGAIN PRESSED HORN ICON REPEATEDLY AND NOTHING HAPPENED. I WOULD SAY THE FIRST OCCURRENCE HAPPENED IN 2009 AND PROGRESSED WITH SPORADIC AVAILABILITY UNTIL IT COMPLETELY STOPPED. I HAVE TOO MANY INSTANCES TO NAME WHERE I NEEDED MY HORN AND IT FAILED TO WORK. I HAVE CONTACTED SATURN AND AM WAITING THEIR REPLY. *TR
2012-09-03
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-03
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I AM SEEING A PATTERN OF SEVERE DRY ROT STRESS CRACKS IN ALL, NEARLY NEW (LESS THAN 12 MONTHS OLD) MICHELIN AND UNIROYAL TIRES IN THE TREAD AREA FIRST THEN LATER THE SIDEWALLS, AND EVEN GOODYEAR TIRES IN JUST 1-2 YEARS. ALL THESE TIRES CAME FROM WALMART. I HAVE THEM ON 6 VEHICLES, ALL WITH THE SAME PROBLEMS. I HAVE BEEN BUYING TIRES FOR OVER 38 YEARS, AND NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM TILL THE LAST FEW YEARS. THIS NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED AND DEALT WITH QUICKLY. I AM A DEGREED CHEMICAL ENGINEER AND I DO ALL MY OWN AUTO REPAIRS, EVEN MAJOR REBUILDS, IN OTHER WORDS I AM VERY EXPERIENCED AND I SEE A VERY DANGEROUS SAFETY AND CONSUMER ISSUE HERE!!!! *TR
2012-03-29
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-30
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SOMETIMES MY SECURITY LIGHT GOES ON-WHEN THAT HAPPENS, IN ORDER TO START CAR UP I HAVE TO LOCK ALL OF THE DOORS, WAIT 20 MINUTES THEN START UP THE CAR. IT NOW HAS 117000 MILES ON IT AND IT MAKES A LOUD NOISE AND SHAKES AT ANYTHING OVER 60 MILES AN HOUR
2011-12-12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-10
- VIN: 1G8JU52F01Y
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SATURN SL2. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
2011-11-09
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-02
- VIN: 1G8ZH52811Z
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SATURN SL1. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, HE HEARD A LOUD NOISE AND THE VEHICLE STARTED SHAKING EXCESSIVELY. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHO INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE TRANSMISSION VALVE BODY WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS AWAITING REPAIRS. THE CURRENT AND THE FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 132,000. ....UPDATED 12/03/12 *BF UPDATED 01/11/12
2011-05-16
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-12
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SATURN 2001 SL1, MY GIRLFRIEND WAS DRIVING THE CAR AND CALLED ME SAYING THAT IT WAS KNOCKING SHE ONLY DROVE IT AROUND THE BLOCK DUE TO HER BEING SCARED OF THE SOUNDS. I THEN DROVE THE CAR AROUND TO ENSURE THAT IT WAS A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. THE CAR HAS 97,000 MILES ON IT AND I JUST HAD THE O2 SENSOR CHANGED FOR AN IDLE HIGH ISSUE. I ALSO HAD TO CLEAN OUT THE IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE DUE TO BUILD UP AND FAULTY OPERATION. I BROUGHT MY CAR TO AAMCO TO ENSURE THE TRANSMISSION IS TAKEN CARE OF PROPERLY. THEY HAVE TO REBUILD THE TRANSMISSION REPLACING EVERY PART INSIDE THE CASING. 2,480$ IN THE HOLE, SO I BETTER NOT HAVE ANYMORE ISSUES WITH THIS CAR AFTER THIS. ALSO THE DOOR LOCK GETS STUCK ON THE DRIVER SIDE, SO YOU HAVE TO MANUALLY PUSH OVER THE LEAVER EVERY TIME YOU EXIT THE VEHICLE. *TR
2010-09-28
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-27
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 2001 SATURN SL2 SEDAN TIMING CHAIN FAILURE. IT IS CURRENTLY AT AN AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP, SO I DO NOT HAVE THE VIN HANDY (BUT IF YOU NEED IT, CONTACT ME). THEY DO NOT WANT TO REPLACE THE TIMING CHAIN BECAUSE THEY SAY THEY HAVE HAD EXPERIENCES WHERE THEY DO THIS AND IT FAILS AGAIN IN A FEW MONTHS. THEY SAY THEY DO NOT WANT TO LOOK FOR ANOTHER ENGINE BECAUSE IT WOULD HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. I SPECIFICALLY BOUGHT THE SATURN BECAUSE IT HAD A TIMING CHAIN INSTEAD OF A TIMING BELT (BECAUSE I OWNED A FIAT ON WHICH THE TIMING BELT BROKE AND I NEVER WANTED TO GO THROUGH THAT AGAIN). YET, HERE I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM WITH A TIMING CHAIN. I HAVE HEARD THAT THERE IS A LUBRICATION ISSUE WITH THE TIMING CHAIN THAT CAUSES IT TO FAIL. I HOPE THIS CAN BE INVESTIGATED. SATURN MADE A BIG DEAL OF THEIR "300,000 MILES CLUB" AND HOW ROBUST AND LONG-LASTING THEIR CARS WERE, AND NOW THIS. TO MAKE THINGS WORSE, OUR FAMILY HAS TWO 2001 SATURN SL2 SEDANS! *TR
2009-07-25
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-18
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT ON JULY 18 2009 A LADY PULLED OUT OF A SIDE STREET AND WE HIT. I COULD NOT AVOID HER. IM NOT SURE WHAT SPEED I WAS GOING AT IMPACT BUT I SLAMMED ON MY BRAKES AT 40 MPH. MY FRONT END HIT HER SIDE.MOST PASSENGERS ME, THE FRONT PASSENGER AND TWO OTHERS WERE INJURED. NEITHER AIR BAG DEPLOYED. IM NOT SURE IF THEY SHOULD HAVE BUT AT THAT SPEED AND THE IMPACT I FEEL THEY DEFINITELY SHOULD HAVE. MY DAUGHTER AND I FLEW FORWARD AND SHE HIT THE WINDSHIELD AND I WENT INTO THE STEERING WHEEL COMING VERY CLOSE TO THE WINDSHIELD. THE CAR IN TOTALED. *TR
2009-04-17
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-12
- VIN: 1G8JU52F21Y
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SATURN SL2. WHILE DRIVING 7 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, BUT WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. SHE DID NOT NOTICE ANY WARNINGS PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP AND THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN FAILED. THE REPAIR WOULD COST $2,000. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS ADVISED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL DEALER FOR FURTHER INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY ALSO STATED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN FAILED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THERE WAS NO CURRENT RECALL ON HER VEHICLE, BUT THEY WOULD COVER HALF OF THE REPAIR COST. THE CONTACT DOES NOT FEEL SHE SHOULD HAVE TO PAY BECAUSE THERE IS A SERVICE BULLETIN PERTAINING TO THE TIMING CHAIN FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 66,636.
2009-01-04
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-05
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ONLY HAD THE CAR FOR A COUPLE OF MONTHS - STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION..... KEPT SHIFTING REAL HARD FROM 2ND TO 3RD (AUTOMATIC). TOOK IT TO OUR MECHANIC AND SAID IT WAS OUT OF HIS HANDS AND REFERRED US TO A TRANSMISSION SPECIALIST. HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THEM AND ONCE HE LOOKED IT OVER IT NEEDED A NEW TRANSMISSION!!!! ONLY HAD 60,000 MILES - GO FIGURE. VALVE BODY!! WROTE A LETTER TO THE SATURN CORPORATE OFFICE ABOUT THE PROBLEM TO SEE WHAT THEY COULD DO AND TOLD US THAT WE SHOULD HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO A SATURN SERVICE STATION. WE ALREADY WERE IN THE PROCESS OF GETTING IT REPAIR, COSTING US $ 2,000.00!!!! I FEEL THAT SATURN SHOULD LOOK INTO THEIR CUSTOMER'S COMPLAINTS AND REALIZE THAT THERE ACTUALLY IS A PROBLEM WITH THIS MODELS TRANSMISSION. THIS COULD LEAD TO AN INJURY OR SOMETHING MORE SERIOUS. I DON'T THINK SATURN WOULD LIKE TO HAVE THAT ON THEIR SHOULDERS!! THE MORE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE TRANSMISSION PROBLEM THE BETTER AND HOPEFULLY THEY WILL MAKE THIS A RECALL FOR THE SAFETY OF THE CONSUMERS. *TR
2008-12-22
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-19
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: SATURN 2001 ION IGNITION - CAR WON'T START BECAUSE KEY WON'T TURN THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH SATURNS AND IS A BAD SAFETY ISSUE. PEOPLE ARE STRANDED WITH VEHICLES THAT WON'T START OR SOMETIMES EVEN TURN OFF. THIS IS AWFUL, AND SATURN KNOWS ABOUT IT, AND GM IS ASKING FOR A BAILOUT? THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL. IF GOVERNMENT WON'T FORCE A RECALL ON KNOWN ISSUES, THE COMPANY WINDS UP GOING EXTINCT DUE TO POOR QUALITY ISSUES. RECALL THIS! *TR
2001 Saturn Sl recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2001 Saturn Sl.
2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2000-10-12
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES, FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 114, "THEFT PROTECTION." THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH AN IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE PARK LOCK CABLE ASSEMBLY. IF IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED, IT IS POSSIBLE TO SHIFT FROM THE "PARK" POSITION WITH THE IGNITION KEY REMOVED.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION INCREASES THE RISK OF A CRASH RESULTING FROM THE UNINTENDED MOVEMENT OF PARKED VEHICLES.
- Remedy: SATURN IS ASKING OWNERS AND RETAILERS TO PERFORM A FUNCTIONAL CHECK OF THE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE PARK LOCK CABLE ASSEMBLY OPERATION, AND IF NECESSARY, TO HAVE THE CABLE ADJUSTED. IF OWNERS ARE NOT COMFORTABLE PERFORMING THE FUNCTIONAL CHECK THEMSELVES, THEY CAN HAVE THEIR DEALER PERFORM THIS INSPECTION FOR THEM.
2000-10-12
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH AN INADEQUATE VENT VALVE WELD ON THE TOP PORTION OF THE FUEL TANK.
- Consequence: FUEL SPILLAGE COULD OCCUR DURING REFUELING OR IF THE VEHICLE WERE INVOLVED IN A ROLLOVER. IF AN IGNITION SOURCE WERE PRESENT, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE TO ENSURE THE FUEL TANK VENT VALVE IS PROPERLY WELDED. IF NECESSARY, DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Saturn Sl problems:
2001 Saturn SL Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2001-saturn-sl/problems
Top 2001 Saturn SL Problems · Timing Chain May Come Into Contact With Timing Cover and Make Noise · Front Brake Rotor Wear Can Cause Pulsations · Stalling/ ...
Saturn S-Series Questions - What are some problems that occur with ...
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-t26257_ds41828
Feb 1, 2007 ... The main problem is oil consumption, they all do it and sometimes it's severe. The single cam engine have issues with head cracking but it's ...
Oil for 2001 Saturn SL with oil consumtion issues | Bob Is The Oil Guy
https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/threads/oil-for-2001-saturn-sl-with-oil-consumtion-issues.178038/
Jun 22, 2012 ... A Qt. every 1.5k is ok & normal. If everything else is fine, it's a deal. This will help with oil consumption: - New OEM PCV (If bad, a fixed ...
Q&A: Saturn Automatic Transmission Shifting Problems - 2001 ...
https://www.justanswer.com/saturn/6ink6-2001-saturn-automatic-transmission-intermittent-slam-shift-behavior.html
Apr 12, 2012 ... 2001 Saturn SL (SL1? 1.9 litre engine) electronic automatic transmission fault codes showing up along with intermittent - Answered by a ...
Read Codes and Reset SES light on 2001 Saturn SL-1 ...
https://community.cartalk.com/t/read-codes-and-reset-ses-light-on-2001-saturn-sl-1/46803
Mar 29, 2010 ... Is this error in any way possibly related to a coolant sensor problem? I drive the car 8 freeway hours to visit relatives on a frequent basis (4 ...
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