2002 Saturn SL2

The 2002 Saturn SL2 is a compact sedan known for its fuel efficiency and dent-resistant polymer body panels. In 2002, the SL2 was only available with a 1.9L DOHC inline-four engine producing 124 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the car’s affordability, simple design, and decent gas mileage. Common complaints include a somewhat noisy engine, basic interior, and some reliability concerns that come with an older vehicle.

Engine

1.9L DOHC Inline-Four

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust, especially upon startup.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, options range from using a higher viscosity oil, replacing valve stem seals, or, in more extreme cases, engine rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (oil change) - $2000+ (engine rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Catalytic Converter
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine light goes on (OBD code P0420), failed emissions test, rattling noise from underneath the car.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, visible leaks near the water pump, radiator, or hoses.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak. This could involve replacing hoses, clamps, the water pump, thermostat housing, or the radiator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (hose replacement) - $500+ (radiator/water pump replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid change. If the problem persists, the valve body might need to be rebuilt or replaced. In some cases, a full transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) - $1500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs higher than normal during acceleration, but the car doesn’t accelerate accordingly. The transmission may hesitate to engage gears.
  • Solution: A transmission rebuild or replacement is typically required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, poor handling, and increased stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replace the struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rods
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends. An alignment is necessary after replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Failed Instrument Cluster
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges stop working, lights flicker or fail to illuminate, intermittent issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster, or repair of the existing cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows don’t go up or down, intermittent operation, clicking sounds from the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Frame/Underbody)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the frame, suspension components, or other underbody areas, especially in regions with road salt usage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, rust converter application, or frame reinforcement. In severe cases, the vehicle may not be repairable.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (minor rust repair) - $2000+ (frame repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the backing and sags down.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic dashboard develops cracks, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (dash cover) - $800+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Saturn SL2, while appreciated for its affordability and unique body panels, can present several common issues related to its age and design. Engine problems such as oil consumption and catalytic converter failures are relatively common. Transmission issues like harsh shifting and slipping can also occur, especially in the automatic models. Suspension components are prone to wear and electrical problems can arise. Rust, especially on the underbody, is also a concern, depending on the climate where the car has spent its life. Costs to repair these issues can range from relatively inexpensive fixes to more substantial investments for engine or transmission work. Before purchasing, a thorough inspection is highly recommended.