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2002 Saturn SC1

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By Research the Car 3 min read

The 2002 Saturn SC1 is a small coupe known for its fuel efficiency and dent-resistant polymer panels. It was available with a 1.9L inline-four engine, producing approximately 100 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the SC1’s affordability and simple design, while common dislikes include its basic interior and somewhat unrefined driving experience.

Engine

1.9L SOHC I4

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Visible blue smoke from the exhaust may also be present.
    • Solution: Replacing valve stem seals or piston rings can help reduce oil consumption, but a complete engine rebuild or replacement may be necessary in severe cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from various locations, including the water pump, radiator, and hoses. Overheating may occur if coolant levels are not maintained.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking components (water pump, radiator, hoses) and ensuring proper coolant mixture.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall, run rough, or not start. The check engine light will illuminate with a code related to the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Shifting Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or failure to shift into certain gears.
    • Solution: Replacing the transmission fluid may help in some cases. However, a more in-depth repair may be needed such as a transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at low speeds. The transmission may also stall or fail to engage.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Strut and Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll during turns. Visible leaks from the struts or shocks may also be present.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn struts and shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for all four)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Loose steering and uneven tire wear may also occur.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows that operate slowly, erratically, or not at all.
    • Solution: Replacing the power window motor or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning gauges (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.) or a completely blank instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headlight Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The plastic headlight lens covers turn yellow and hazy and cause the headlights to not shine as bright, causing a safety issue at night.
    • Solution: Replacing the headlights with new assemblies or refinishing the existing headlights.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Handle Breakage
    • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, particularly on the driver’s side, are prone to breaking.
    • Solution: Replacing the broken door handle.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the ceiling and sags down.
    • Solution: Re-gluing or replacing the headliner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks develop on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
    • Solution: Covering the dashboard with a dash mat or replacing the dashboard.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2002 Saturn SC1, while a reliable and economical vehicle for its time, can suffer from a variety of issues related to its age. Engine problems such as oil consumption and coolant leaks are common, and the automatic transmission may experience shifting problems. Suspension components can wear out, and electrical issues can arise. Interior trim such as the headliner and dashboard are also prone to age-related problems. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as engine or transmission work, can be costly.

Saturn, SC1
Saturn SC1 2002
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