MotorDeets

Saturn Sw problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every Sw from 1991 to 2001: 209 owner complaints and 17 recalls across 11 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 1995 (36), 1997 (31), 1994 (30). Best fuel economy: 28 mpg combined (1999).

Saturn Sw
Photo: IFCAR · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Brakes (hydraulic)36
Engine & cooling32
Electrical23
Transmission & drivetrain22
Seats21
Seat belts17
Speed control / throttle16
Airbags15

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
199110–
199211–
199322728
199413028
199523628
199602028
199703128
199802727
199911628
200071527
20012627

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 Sw.

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 Sw manual

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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Saturn Sw?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 1995 (36), 1997 (31), 1994 (30).

How many recalls has the Saturn Sw had?

Across 1991–2001, NHTSA lists 17 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).