2002 Saturn SC1

Overview of the 2002 Saturn SC1

The 2002 Saturn SC1 is a compact coupe offered with two engine options: a 1.9L L4 and a 2.2L L4. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. The 1.9L engine produces 122 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.2L engine produces 140 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque. The SC1 is praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability, but it has also been criticized for its lack of power and basic interior.

Engine

1.9L L4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure:
  • Symptoms: Misfiring, reduced engine performance
  • Solution: Replace ignition coils
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250 per coil
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2L L4

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure:
  • Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal feels spongy
  • Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Input Shaft Bearing Failure:
  • Symptoms: Grinding noise during gear changes, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace transmission input shaft bearing
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Solenoid Failure:
  • Symptoms: Transmission slipping, no power in certain gears
  • Solution: Replace solenoids
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per solenoid
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Struts Failure:
  • Symptoms: Bumpy ride, uneven tire wear, noise from suspension
  • Solution: Replace front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500 per strut
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorbers Failure:
  • Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, noise from suspension
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per shock absorber
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Symptoms: Battery not charging, dashboard warning lights
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain:
  • Symptoms: Battery discharges quickly, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Diagnose and fix cause of battery drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Drainage Issues:
  • Symptoms: Water leaks into interior, mold buildup
  • Solution: Clear clogged sunroof drains, seal leaks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Cup Holder Breakage:
  • Symptoms: Cup holder breaks off or malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace center console cup holder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Rattling:
  • Symptoms: Dashboard vibrates or rattles during driving
  • Solution: Tighten loose components or replace faulty parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Saturn SC1 has a number of common issues, particularly with the engine, transmission, and suspension. While the repairs are generally not overly expensive, the frequency of problems can be concerning for owners. Those considering purchasing a used SC1 should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential repairs.