2001 Saturn SL2

Introduction:

The 2001 Saturn SL2 is a compact sedan known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It comes standard with a 1.9-liter inline-four engine that produces 100 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Optional engine and transmission choices include a 2.2-liter inline-four producing 116 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Drivers appreciate the SL2’s affordability, roomy interior, and user-friendly features, while drawbacks include its lackluster performance and basic interior.

Engine

1.9-liter Inline-Four Engine

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, exhaust gases in the cooling system
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, decreased engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2-liter Inline-Four Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

Four-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed or harsh shifting
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle bouncing excessively, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per strut + labor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical problems, warning lights
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 + labor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle not starting, clicking sound when attempting to start
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 + labor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Power Window Regulator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating properly, window falling into the door
  • Solution: Replace power window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

Overall, the 2001 Saturn SL2 has several potential issues, but most are relatively minor and inexpensive to repair. The most severe issue found is the head gasket failure, which can be costly to fix. However, with proper maintenance and care, most SL2s should provide reliable service for many years.