MotorDeets

Saturn Sl problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every Sl from 1991 to 2002: 2,218 owner complaints and 22 recalls across 12 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 1995 (355), 1996 (287), 1994 (286). Best fuel economy: 29 mpg combined (2002).

Saturn Sl
Photo: Bull-Doser · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Engine & cooling403
Transmission & drivetrain307
Electrical293
Brakes (hydraulic)289
Seats226
Seat belts177
Airbags155
Speed control / throttle138

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
199112927
1992212328
1993217528
1994128628
1995335528
1996128729
1997222728
1998016828
1999117829
2000714829
2001211129
2002013129

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Saturn Sl.

eManualOnline Download (PDF), keep forever

Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.

Most $25–$78, one-time
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Mitchell 1 DIY Online access, factory-level data

Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yr
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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yr
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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
Check Saturn Sl manual

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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Saturn Sl?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 1995 (355), 1996 (287), 1994 (286).

How many recalls has the Saturn Sl had?

Across 1991–2002, NHTSA lists 22 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).