2000 Saturn LS2

The 2000 Saturn LS2 was a mid-size sedan offering a relatively spacious interior and a comfortable ride. Engine options included a 2.2L inline-4 and a 3.0L V6. The LS2 specifically came equipped with the 3.0L V6, producing approximately 182 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Drivers often appreciated the car’s fuel economy and smooth ride. Common complaints included issues with reliability, particularly electrical problems and premature wear of certain components.

Engine

3.0L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from various locations on the engine. Most commonly the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket
  • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking, often noticed by a low coolant level warning or visible puddles.
  • Solution: Pressure test the cooling system to locate the leak, then repair or replace the leaking components such as hoses, water pump, or radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $700+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during gear changes, slipping between gears, or rough shifting.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid flush and filter change can resolve minor issues. More severe problems may require transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid/filter); $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)

Electrical

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights flickering or not turning on.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight bulb. If the bulb is not the problem, then replace the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200+
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often one at a time.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
• Check Engine Light
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light comes on for various reasons.
  • Solution: Have the vehicle scanned by a professional mechanic to determine the cause and perform the required fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during turns.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per axle
• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, especially when going over bumps, or loose steering feel.
  • Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, or other suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the bushing and labor

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and underbody
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, apply rust-inhibiting coatings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1000+ per area

Interior

• Dashboard Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installing a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)

Summary

The 2000 Saturn LS2, while offering a comfortable ride and decent fuel economy, is prone to several common issues. Engine oil leaks and transmission shifting problems are among the more concerning. Electrical issues and suspension wear contribute to overall maintenance costs. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others like transmission work or dashboard replacement can be quite costly. The car’s age also makes finding replacement parts more difficult.