2001 Saturn LW200

Introduction to the 2001 Saturn LW200:

The 2001 Saturn LW200 was a compact sedan offered with a single engine and transmission option: a 2.2-liter inline-4 paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The engine produced 140 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. Drivers generally praised the LW200’s affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency, but criticized its underwhelming performance and lack of features.

Engine

• Engine: 2.2L Inline-4

  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks near the intake manifold, engine overheating, decreased performance
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Head Gasket Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks near the head gasket, white smoke from exhaust, overheating
    • Solution: Replace head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission Slipping:
    • Description/Symptoms: Gears slipping, difficulty shifting, loss of power
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Shift Solenoid Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, transmission stuck in gear
    • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squealing or clunking noises, decreased handling and stability
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Rod Bushings:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noises, especially over bumps
  • Solution: Replace strut rod bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system malfunctions, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t crank, clicking noises
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Body Panel Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots or holes on body panels
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted body panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on extent of damage
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Assembly Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Condensation or water inside headlight assemblies
  • Solution: Replace headlight assemblies or seal leaks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Fan Resistor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower fan inoperative or blowing on only high speed
  • Solution: Replace fan resistor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cruise Control Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control inoperative
  • Solution: Replace cruise control switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Saturn LW200 has a range of potential issues, including serious engine problems like intake manifold and head gasket failures. Transmission issues and suspension components also have a tendency to fail. Electrical problems are generally less severe and more affordable to fix. Exterior and interior issues are mostly cosmetic or minor. Overall, the LW200 has a relatively high incidence of problems for a vehicle of its age, and owners should be prepared for potential costly repairs.