2002 Saturn LW300

The 2002 Saturn LW300 was a mid-size sedan offered by Saturn, known for its dent-resistant polymer body panels on a spaceframe chassis. Engine options included a 2.2L Inline-4 and a 3.0L V6. The 3.0L V6 produced approximately 182 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Some owners appreciated the car’s unique styling and comfortable ride, while others disliked its reliability issues and sometimes awkward handling.

Engine

3.0L V6

• Timing Chain Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to poor engine performance and potential engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor fuel economy, and possible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Automatic Transmission (Specific Type Not Identified, Common Across Both Engines)

• Transmission Slipping/Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts erratically, or fails to engage at all. Can be more pronounced when the transmission is cold or under heavy load.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, this could require a transmission fluid change, valve body repair, or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during cornering, and premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 (depending on parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Coil Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits lopsided, clunking noise when driving over bumps, and reduced ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken coil spring(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows fail to operate or operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges may stop working, flicker, or display incorrect readings. The entire cluster may intermittently fail.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles are prone to breaking, especially in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replacement of the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the roof and sags down.
  • Solution: Replacement or re-gluing of the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2002 Saturn LW300 can present owners with a variety of issues, ranging from relatively minor problems like broken door handles to more significant concerns such as timing chain failure and transmission issues. While some repairs are inexpensive, others can be costly. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and be aware of these common problems. The severity of the issues can range from minor inconvenience to major mechanical failure. The costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the issue.