2002 Saturn SC2

Introduction

The 2002 Saturn SC2 is a compact sports coupe offered with a choice of two engine and transmission options:

• 1.9L DOHC Ecotec I4 paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission (124 hp/122 lb-ft torque)
• 2.2L DOHC Ecotec I4 paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission (140 hp/150 lb-ft torque)

Owners praise the SC2 for its sporty handling and responsive engines. However, it has received criticism for its cramped interior and limited practicality.

Engine

1.9L DOHC Ecotec I4 with 5-speed manual transmission

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idling, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Cooler Line Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks underneath the vehicle
  • Solution: Replace oil cooler lines
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

1.9L DOHC Ecotec I4 with 4-speed automatic transmission

• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or slipping during gear changes
  • Solution: Replace transmission solenoid pack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2L DOHC Ecotec I4 with 5-speed manual transmission

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine light illuminated, engine performance issues
  • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Metallic rattling noise from the engine, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2L DOHC Ecotec I4 with 4-speed automatic transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks underneath the vehicle
  • Solution: Replace transmission seals or gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission overheating, loss of drive
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed manual transmission

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch
  • Solution: Replace clutch assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Linkage Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, gears popping out of place
  • Solution: Adjust or replace shift linkage components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed automatic transmission

• Transmission Solenoid Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, hesitation during shifts
  • Solution: Replace transmission solenoid pack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Control Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission not shifting properly, erratic behavior
  • Solution: Replace transmission control module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, clunking noises
  • Solution: Replace front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride on uneven surfaces, bouncing after hitting bumps
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical system problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery discharges quickly, difficulty starting the vehicle
  • Solution: Diagnose and resolve source of battery drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulation inside headlight assemblies
  • Solution: Replace headlight assemblies
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tail Light Circuit Board Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more tail lights not working
  • Solution: Replace tail light circuit board
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattle or noise coming from dashboard
  • Solution: Tighten loose components or apply foam tape
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $50
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working properly
  • Solution: Replace power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Saturn SC2 has a range of potential issues that can range in severity and cost from minor (dashboard rattle, battery drain) to more extensive (timing chain tensioner failure, transmission failure). While the car offers sporty handling and responsive engines, potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues before purchasing.