1998 Saturn SL

The 1998 Saturn SL is a compact sedan known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It is available with a choice of two engines: a 1.9-liter inline-four with 100 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.2-liter inline-four with 120 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

Engine

1.9-liter inline-four

• Blown head gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+

2.2-liter inline-four

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Five-speed manual

• Synchronizer wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Clutch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+

Four-speed automatic

• Transmission fluid leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid stains on driveway, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace transmission fluid seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Suspension

• Struts or shocks worn
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace struts or shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Sway bar links worn
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from suspension
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Ball joints worn
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim headlights
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t turn over
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Window switches fail
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows don’t roll up or down
  • Solution: Replace window switches
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• HVAC blower motor failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from vents
  • Solution: Replace HVAC blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

Summary

The 1998 Saturn SL is a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle. However, it is not without its issues. Some of the more common problems include blown head gaskets, intake manifold gasket failure, synchronizer wear, clutch failure, and transmission fluid leaks. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are generally not severe and can be avoided with proper maintenance.