2000 Saturn SL2

The 2000 Saturn SL2 is a compact sedan known for its dent-resistant polymer body panels and fuel efficiency. It came equipped with a 1.9L inline four-cylinder engine producing around 124 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the SL2 for its affordability, fuel economy, and distinctive styling. Common dislikes included the somewhat noisy engine and the relatively basic interior.

Engine

1.9L Inline 4-Cylinder

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from various engine seals and gaskets, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and crankshaft seals. Can result in low oil levels, burning oil smell, and visible oil spots on the ground.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
• Engine Knocking/Pinging
  • Description/Symptoms: A knocking or pinging sound coming from the engine, especially under load or acceleration. Can be caused by carbon buildup, low octane fuel, or a malfunctioning knock sensor.
  • Solution: Clean carbon deposits, use higher octane fuel, or replace the knock sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump, radiator, hoses, or thermostat housing. Leads to overheating, low coolant levels, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or erratic idling, stalling, or difficulty starting the engine. The IAC valve regulates the amount of air entering the engine at idle.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or slips when shifting between gears. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush, repair or replace the valve body, or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears. Can be caused by worn transmission mounts, low transmission fluid, or a faulty valve body.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace transmission mounts, perform a transmission fluid flush, or repair/replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in turns, and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace the struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+

Electrical

• Failed Power Window Motors
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that are slow to go up/down, don’t go up/down, or make noise when operating
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
• Dim Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights that are not as bright as they should be, making it difficult to see at night. Can be caused by corroded connections, a faulty headlight switch, or a failing alternator.
  • Solution: Clean or replace corroded connections, replace the headlight switch, or replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200+
• Sensor Failures (O2, Crankshaft, Camshaft)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination, poor engine performance, stalling, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Diagnose the failed sensor and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, especially on the driver’s side, are prone to breaking.
  • Solution: Replace the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $100+

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric headliner detaches from the roof and sags down.
  • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+

Summary

The 2000 Saturn SL2, while generally reliable, does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine oil leaks, suspension wear, and electrical problems appear frequently. The cost to repair these issues can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like replacing a sensor to more costly repairs such as transmission work. Buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle for these potential problems before purchasing.