2002 Saturn SL1
Introduction The 2002 Saturn SL1 is a compact sedan that offers a budget-friendly option with a fuel-efficient engine. It comes standard with a 122-horsepower 2.2L engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Other engine and transmission options include a 150-horsepower 3.0L V6 with a 4-speed automatic transmission. While the SL1 is praised for its affordability and fuel economy, it has been known to experience some issues.
Engine 2.2L Engine
Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, rough idle Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Head Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Milky oil, white smoke from exhaust, coolant leaks Solution: Replace head gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found
3.0L V6 Engine
Oil Leak from Rear Main Seal Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the rear of the engine Solution: Replace rear main seal Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+ Recalls: None Found
Timing Chain Failure Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, loss of power Solution: Replace timing chain Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission 5-Speed Manual Transmission
- Grinding Gears Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise Solution: Replace synchronizers Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Slipping Gears Description/Symptoms: Vehicle may not accelerate properly, transmission may slip out of gear Solution: Rebuild transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Strut Failure Description/Symptoms: Noises from the front end, uneven tire wear, poor handling Solution: Replace struts Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, difficulty starting the vehicle Solution: Test and replace faulty electrical components Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Power Window Failure Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate Solution: Replace window motor Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2002 Saturn SL1 offers a budget-friendly option, but it has been known to experience some mechanical issues, particularly with its engines and transmission. The severity of these issues can vary, and the cost of repairs can be significant. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering this vehicle.