2005 Saturn L300

2005 Saturn L300

The 2005 Saturn L300 is a midsize sedan that comes with a choice of two engine options and two transmission options. The first engine option is a 2.2-liter inline-four rated at 143 horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The second engine option is a 3.0-liter V6 rated at 182 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its popularity, the 2005 Saturn L300 has been known to have a number of issues:

Engine

2.2-liter inline-four

• Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket may fail, causing a vacuum leak. Symptoms include a rough idle, loss of power, and poor fuel economy. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. $200-$500
• Timing belt tensioner failure: The timing belt tensioner may fail, causing the timing belt to slip or break. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, loss of power, and engine damage if the belt breaks. The solution is to replace the timing belt tensioner. $600-$1000
• Oil leaks: The L300 may develop oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Symptoms include a visible oil leak under the vehicle and low oil levels. The solution is to replace the leaking gasket or seal. $100-$500

3.0-liter V6

• No major issues reported

Transmission

Five-speed manual transmission

• Clutch problems: The clutch may slip or chatter, making it difficult to shift gears. The solution is to replace the clutch. $500-$800
• Transmission noise: The transmission may make a whining or grinding noise, especially when shifting gears. The solution is to replace the transmission. $1500-$2500

Four-speed automatic transmission

• Transmission slippage: The transmission may slip when shifting gears, causing a loss of power. The solution is to replace the transmission. $1500-$2500
• Transmission fluid leaks: The transmission may develop leaks from the pan gasket or seals. Symptoms include a visible transmission fluid leak under the vehicle and low transmission fluid levels. The solution is to replace the leaking gasket or seal. $100-$500

Suspension

• Strut failure: The struts may fail, causing a rough ride and poor handling. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the suspension, a bouncy ride, and uneven tire wear. The solution is to replace the struts. $500-$800 per axle
• Control arm failure: The control arms may fail, causing a loss of alignment and poor handling. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the suspension, a loose steering wheel, and uneven tire wear. The solution is to replace the control arms. $500-$800 per side

Electrical

• Alternator failure: The alternator may fail, causing the battery to drain and the vehicle to lose power. Symptoms include dim headlights, a flickering dashboard, and difficulty starting the vehicle. The solution is to replace the alternator. $500-$800
• Starter failure: The starter may fail, making it difficult or impossible to start the vehicle. Symptoms include a clicking noise when trying to start the vehicle, no noise, or grinding noises. The solution is to replace the starter. $300-$600

Exterior

• Door handle failure: The door handles may break or become loose, making it difficult to open the doors. The solution is to replace the door handles. $100-$200 per door
• Tail light failure: The tail lights may fail, making it difficult to see the vehicle at night. The solution is to replace the tail lights. $100-$200 per tail light
• Rust: The L300 may develop rust on the body panels, especially in areas where salt is used on the roads. The solution is to have the rust repaired or replaced. Varies depending on the extent of rust

Interior

• HVAC system failure: The HVAC system may fail, causing a loss of heat or air conditioning. Symptoms include a lack of air flow from the vents, warm air blowing when cold air is selected, and cold air blowing when heat is selected. The solution is to repair or replace the HVAC system. $500-$1500
• Dashboard lights failure: The dashboard lights may fail, making it difficult to see the gauges and controls at night. The solution is to replace the dashboard lights. $100-$200

Recalls

• Recall 05V311000: General Motors: Body: Cargo Compartment: Tailgate - Tailgate may not latch properly, increasing the risk of cargo falling out during a crash.
• Recall 04V456000: General Motors: Seatbelts: Front: Buckle - Front seat belt buckles may not unlatch properly, increasing the risk of an occupant being trapped in the vehicle in the event of a crash.
• Recall 03V485000: General Motors: Seatbelts: Front: Buckle - Front seat belt buckles may not unlatch properly, increasing the risk of an occupant being trapped in the vehicle in the event of a crash.
• Recall 03V317000: General Motors: Seatbelts: Front: Buckles - Front seat belt buckles may not unlatch properly, increasing the risk of an occupant being trapped in the vehicle in the event of a crash.
• Recall 03V294000: General Motors: Seatbelts: Front: Buckles - Front seat belt buckles may not unlatch properly, increasing the risk of an occupant being trapped in the vehicle in the event of a crash.
• Recall 02V300000: General Motors: Service Brakes: Hydraulic - Brake fluid may leak from the master cylinder, reducing braking effectiveness and increasing the risk of a crash.

Summary

The 2005 Saturn L300 is a popular midsize sedan that offers a comfortable ride and a variety of features. However, it has also been known to have a number of issues, particularly with the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of the issues varies, but some of them can be expensive to repair. Overall, the L300 is a reliable vehicle but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before purchasing one.