1995 Saturn SL2

1995 Saturn SL2

The 1995 Saturn SL2 is a compact sedan that offers a balance of fuel efficiency, reliability, and practicality. It features a 1.9-liter inline-four engine paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. The SL2 also has a spacious interior and a variety of standard features, including power windows, air conditioning, and a cassette player.

While the SL2 is generally reliable, it has some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

• 1.9L Inline-Four
  • Cylinder Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, and rough idle
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, vacuum leaks, and performance issues
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• No Issues Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Transmission Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or whining noises during shifting
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, and loss of power
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $2,800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or clunking noises from the front of the vehicle
  • Solution: Replace the struts or control arms
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags noticeably
  • Solution: Replace the rear springs or shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting, and electrical system failure
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $900+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, especially in cold weather
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking the doors
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises from the dashboard, especially over rough roads
  • Solution: Tighten or replace the dashboard components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Belt Buckle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty releasing the seat belt
  • Solution: Replace the seat belt buckle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1995 Saturn SL2 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it has some common issues that can be expensive to fix. These include engine gasket failures, transmission problems, suspension noise, electrical failures, and interior rattles. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the condition of the vehicle. Before purchasing a used SL2, it is important to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential issues.