1999 Saturn SL
1999 Saturn SL
The 1999 Saturn SL is a compact sedan that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 1.9-liter inline-four that produced 100 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque. A 2.2-liter inline-four that produced 124 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque was also available. Both engines could be paired with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.
The SL was praised for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and spacious interior. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power and its unrefined ride quality.
Engine
1.9-liter Inline-Four
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idling Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 Recalls: None Found
2.2-liter Inline-Four
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from engine, loss of power Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600 Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission
- Synchro Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise Solution: Replace synchro Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700 Recalls: None Found
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Torque Converter Failure Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, shuddering, loss of power Solution: Replace torque converter Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500 Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut Failure Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, clunking noise Solution: Replace struts Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600 Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, difficulty starting, battery warning light Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found
Starter Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, clicking noise Solution: Replace starter Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, especially around wheel wells Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected panels Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity of rust Recalls: None Found
Interior
HVAC Blower Motor Failure Description/Symptoms: No air flow from vents Solution: Replace blower motor Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 Recalls: None Found
Window Regulator Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty rolling up or down windows Solution: Replace window regulator Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1999 Saturn SL is a reliable and affordable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems reported by owners include intake manifold gasket failure, synchro failure, torque converter failure, strut failure, and alternator failure. These issues can be expensive to fix, but they are not typically severe and do not pose a major safety risk.