1992 Saturn SC
Introduction:
The 1992 Saturn SC was a sporty coupe that offered a unique driving experience. It came with a standard 1.9L inline-4 engine producing 124 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The SC2 came with a more powerful 2.0L inline-4 engine producing 150 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Drivers enjoyed the SC’s responsive handling, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. However, it also had some common issues.
Engine
1.9L Inline-4
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idling
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L Inline-4
- Head Gasket Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
- Solution: Replace head gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission
- Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, clutch pedal sinks to the floor
- Solution: Replace clutch slave cylinder
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Torque Converter Shudder:
- Description/Symptoms: Vibration during acceleration, slipping
- Solution: Replace torque converter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Strut Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, poor handling, excessive bouncing
- Solution: Replace front struts
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Shock Absorber Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, poor handling, excessive bouncing
- Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical system problems, battery drain
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain:
- Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting
- Solution: Inspect and repair or replace battery or electrical components
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaks or becomes loose
- Solution: Replace door handle
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking:
- Description/Symptoms: Dashboard develops cracks over time
- Solution: Replace or repair dashboard
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
Overall, the 1992 Saturn SC is a generally reliable vehicle. However, it has some common issues that can be expensive to repair, such as head gasket failure and transmission problems. It’s recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing to assess its condition and potential repair needs.