2002 Saturn L200

Introduction to the 2002 Saturn L200 The 2002 Saturn L200 is a compact car that was available with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. The base engine was a 2.2-liter inline-four that produced 140 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The optional engine was a 3.0-liter V6 that produced 185 horsepower and 205 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were available with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The L200 was praised for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, but it was criticized for its lack of power and poor fuel economy.

Engine 2.2L I4

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket, causing a burning oil smell and possible engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt tensioner can fail, causing the timing belt to slip or break, resulting in catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt tensioner and timing belt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to leak, leading to engine overheating and possible damage.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft position sensor can fail, resulting in engine performance issues, such as misfires and reduced power.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Release Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The clutch release bearing can fail, causing difficulty shifting gears or a grinding noise when engaging the clutch.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch release bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Synchronizer Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The synchronizers in the transmission can wear out, making it difficult to shift gears smoothly.
  • Solution: Replace the affected synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission solenoid can fail, causing erratic shifting or transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the failed solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Lock-up Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter lock-up clutch can fail, resulting in shuddering or slipping during acceleration or cruising.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mount bearings can fail, causing a clunking or rattling noise over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The ball joints can wear out, resulting in loose steering, uneven tire wear, and reduced handling stability.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, resulting in a loss of electrical power and potential battery drain.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain prematurely, leaving the vehicle unable to start.
  • Solution: Diagnose and fix the cause of the battery drain, which may include replacing the battery, alternator, or other electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: The undercarriage of the vehicle can develop rust over time, especially in areas exposed to moisture and road salt.
  • Solution: Preventative measures include regular washing and undercoating
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof seal can deteriorate, causing water to leak into the interior of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window switches can fail, preventing the windows from operating.
  • Solution: Replace the failed switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor can fail, resulting in a lack of heating or cooling airflow.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2002 Saturn L200 is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, but owners have reported a few common issues. The most severe and expensive issue is the timing belt tensioner failure, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Other issues, such as the valve cover gasket leak and intake manifold gasket leak can also be costly to repair but are less severe. Overall, the L200 is a budget-friendly vehicle with a relatively low cost of ownership.