2002 Saturn LW200

Introduction to the 2002 Saturn LW200

The 2002 Saturn LW200 was a mid-size sedan offered with a choice of two engine options: a 2.2L Ecotec inline-4 and a 3.0L V6. Both engines were paired with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission. Despite its spacious interior and comfortable ride, the LW200 was known for several reliability issues.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec Inline-4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold, reduced engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace piston rings or valve stem seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking into oil or exhaust, overheating
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or grinding noise from engine, reduced engine performance
  • Solution: Replace timing chain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement
  • Solution: Replace transmission solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mounts:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from front suspension, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Sway Bar Links:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or worn sway bar links, rattling noises from front suspension
  • Solution: Replace sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Non-functional power windows
  • Solution: Replace power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor battery life, slow starting
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system, may include replacing alternator or starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken or loose door handles
  • Solution: Replace door handles
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or warping on dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning climate control system, inoperative heating or air conditioning
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair climate control system, may include replacing components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Saturn LW200 was known for a variety of reliability issues across its major components. The engine was prone to several costly repairs, including intake manifold gasket failure and head gasket failure. The transmission also had its share of problems, with both the manual and automatic transmissions experiencing failures. The suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior all had their own set of issues to contend with. Overall, the LW200’s reliability issues were significant and could lead to expensive repairs for owners.