1994 Saturn SW1

1994 Saturn SW1

The 1994 Saturn SW1 is a compact station wagon that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. It was powered by a 1.9-liter DOHC inline-four engine that produced 124 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque. The engine was mated to a five-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard on all models.

People who like the Saturn SW1 praise its fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability. However, some people complain about its lack of power and its cramped interior.

Engine

• 1.9-liter DOHC inline-four engine

  • Head gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the head gasket, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Five-speed manual transmission

  • Synchronizer wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises when shifting
    • Solution: Replace the synchronizers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

• Three-speed automatic transmission

  • Solenoid failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or not shifting properly
    • Solution: Replace the solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque converter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration when shifting gears
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace the struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting the car
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Car won’t start, clicking noise when trying to start
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels
  • Solution: Repair the rust or replace the affected panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power window failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, slow or jerky window operation
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or splits in the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 1994 Saturn SW1 is a reliable and fuel-efficient car. However, it is not without its problems. The most common issues include head gasket failure, transmission problems, suspension problems, electrical problems, and interior problems. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem.