2001 Saturn LW200

The 2001 Saturn LW200 is a mid-size sedan known for its fuel efficiency and relatively spacious interior. Engine options include a 2.2L Ecotec Inline-4 producing 140 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque and a 3.0L L81 V6 producing 182 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the car’s affordability and comfortable ride, while common complaints include issues with reliability and some of the car’s more plasticky interior components.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec Inline-4

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups. The engine may also produce blue exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Replacing piston rings and valve seals may address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or break, leading to engine misfires, rough running, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500

3.0L L81 V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks around the intake manifold gasket, leading to overheating and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
• Sludge Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Due to the engine design and long oil change intervals, sludge buildup can occur, leading to oil starvation and engine failure.
  • Solution: Regular oil changes, using a high-quality synthetic oil, and potentially an engine flush. In severe cases, engine disassembly and cleaning or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (flush) - $3,000+ (engine replacement)

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, and difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission fluid, repairing or replacing faulty solenoids, or a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $3,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shifter Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Sloppy or vague shifting, difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the shifter bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200

Suspension

• Strut and Shock Absorber Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and increased stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replacing worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000 (for all four)
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing worn or broken sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Electrical

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that are slow to operate, stop working altogether, or fall down into the door.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working or intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Outer door handles breaking easily.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly, flickering lights, or complete instrument cluster failure.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Sun Visor Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Sun visors that do not stay in place and constantly droop down.
  • Solution: Replacing the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150

Summary

The 2001 Saturn LW200 is prone to a variety of issues, ranging from relatively minor electrical problems to more serious engine and transmission concerns. Oil consumption, intake manifold gasket leaks (V6), timing chain issues (I4), and transmission shifting problems are some of the more prevalent and costly issues. Repair costs can range from a few dollars for a DIY fix to thousands of dollars for major engine or transmission work. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common problems and budget accordingly.