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1992 Saturn SL

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By Research the Car 2 min read

Introduction:

The 1992 Saturn SL was a compact sedan offered with a single engine and transmission option: a 1.9-liter inline-four engine paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission. The engine produced 85 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque. The SL was praised for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability, but it also had its share of problems.

Engine

  • 1.9L Inline-Four Engine
    • Head gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: Blown head gasket, causing coolant and oil to leak. Solution: Replace head gasket, machine cylinder head and block if necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
    • Intake manifold gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: Leaking intake manifold gasket, causing vacuum leaks and rough running. Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

  • 3-Speed Automatic Transmission
    • Transmission slipping: Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips out of gear, especially when shifting from first to second. Solution: Replace transmission or rebuild transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
    • Fluid leaks: Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks from seals or gaskets. Solution: Replace faulty seals or gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500

Suspension

  • Front suspension: No Issues Found

Electrical

  • Alternator failure: Description/Symptoms: Alternator fails, causing battery to not charge and vehicle to not start. Solution: Replace alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Starter failure: Description/Symptoms: Starter fails to engage or rotates slowly, preventing the engine from starting. Solution: Replace starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Battery failure: Description/Symptoms: Battery fails to hold a charge or loses power prematurely. Solution: Replace battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Exterior

  • Tail light assembly cracking: Description/Symptoms: Slight cracking around the plastic assembly around the rear taillights. Solution: Replace taillight assembly. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100

Interior

  • Dashboard cracking: Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard, especially on the passenger side. Solution: Replace dashboard or repair cracks. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Door handle failure: Description/Symptoms: Door handles become loose or break off, making it difficult to open the doors. Solution: Replace door handles. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150

Summary:

The 1992 Saturn SL had several common issues, ranging from minor annoyances to more serious and costly repairs. The most severe issues were the head gasket failure and transmission slipping, which could lead to extensive repairs or even replacement of the engine or transmission. While the SL was generally a reliable vehicle, these issues could be a significant financial burden for owners.

Saturn, SL
Saturn SL 1992
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