Owners have filed 631 complaints
about the 2002 Saturn LS with NHTSA between 2001 and 2023.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 3 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 50
Against the median year of the Saturn LS. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 38
7.4% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 30
17% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Engine
7344.2%
Headlights
2716.4%
Belts AND Associated Pulleys
2213.3%
Brake Lights
116.7%
Module
116.7%
Ignition
95.5%
Catalytic Convertor
63.6%
Interior/Under Dash
63.6%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
81.6%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
112.2%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
285.7%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
7916.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
10922.3%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
12024.5%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
9820.0%
150,000+ miles
367.4%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Dec 2001peak 17May 2023
NHTSA investigations into the 2002 Saturn LS
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
PE09028Opened 21 May 2009Closed 27 Oct 2009FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
FUEL PUMP LEAKS
THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION OPENED THIS INVESTIGATION BASED ON NINE VEHICLE OWNER QUESTIONNAIRE (VOQ) REPORTS ALLEGING GASOLINE LEAKAGE FROM THE IN-TANK FUEL PUMP ASSEMBLY.SOME COMPLAINANTS REPORTED LEAKS FROM THE FUEL PUMP NIPPLE (I.E., THE FITTING FOR THE FUEL SUPPLY AND/OR RETURN HOSES).OTHERS REPORTED LEAKAGE FROM FUEL PUMP CRACKS, FUEL PUMP LINES, AND FROM THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK.ODI WAS UNABLE TO VERIFY THAT ALL OF THE LEAKS ORIGINATED FROM THE FUEL PUMP HOSE FITTINGS AND OR NIPPLES.ODI'S ANALYSIS OF THE AVAILABLE COMPLAINT DATA ATTRIBUTED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VE...
PE08061Opened 16 Oct 2008Closed 8 Apr 2009ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
TIMING CHAIN BREAKS, ENGINE STALL
ON MAY 22, 2008, THEOFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) WAS PETITIONED BY THE NORTH CAROLINA CONSUMERS COUNCIL (NCCC) TO BROADEN THE SCOPE OF SAFETY RECALL 07V-519, WHICH WAS CONDUCTED BY GENERAL MOTORS CORPORATION (GM) FOR MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001 SATURN L-SERIES VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE L61 2.2L ENGINE AND BUILT DURING A 4-MONTH PERIOD FROM NOVEMBER 2000 THROUGH FEBRUARY 2001 (DP08-002). ON OCTOBER 16, 2008, ODI GRANTED DP08-002 AND OPENED PE08-061 TO INVESTIGATE TIMING CHAIN FAILURES RESULTING IN ENGINE STALL WHILE DRIVING (SWD) IN THE SATURN L-SERIES VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH L61 ENGINES AND...
DP08002Opened 18 Jun 2008Closed 16 Oct 2008ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
TIMING CHAIN FAILURE-STALL
ON JUNE 6, 2006, ODI OPENED AN INVESTIGATION OF TIMING CHAIN FAILURE RESULTING IN ENGINE STALL WHILE DRIVING WITH NO RESTART IN APPROXIMATELY 20,514 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001 SATURN L-SERIES VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.2L ENGINES (L61) BUILT FROM NOVEMBER 2000 THROUGH FEBRUARY 2001 (EA06-009).THE VEHICLES BUILT DURING THOSE MONTHS EXHIBITED HIGHER FAILURE RATES THAN SIMILARLY EQUIPPED VEHICLES BUILT BEFORE AND AFTER.GM INTRODUCED A NEW TIMING CHAIN DESIGN IN PRODUCTION IN MAY 2002.ODI CLOSED ITS INVESTIGATION AFTER GM INITIATED A SAFETY RECALL ON NOVEMBER 7, 2007 (RECALL 07V-519). ON MAY 22, 2008, THE...
PE06006Opened 24 Jan 2006Closed 6 Jun 2006ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
TIMING CHAIN FAILURE
ON DECEMBER 12, 2005, ODI RECEIVED A DEFECT PETITION (DP05-008) REQUESTING THE INVESTIGATION OF TIMING CHAIN FAILURES THAT COULD CAUSE STALLING IN SATURN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 2.2L (L61) ENGINE. ODI OPENED PE06-006 ON JANUARY 24, 2006, WITH 24 VEHICLE OWNER COMPLAINTS THAT ALLEGED A BROKEN TIMING CHAIN CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STOP OPERATING.ON APRIL 12, 2006, ODI RECEIVED INFORMATION FROM GENERAL MOTORS (GM) CONCERNING TIMING CHAIN FAILURES IN APPROXIMATELY 412,000 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2000 THROUGH 2003 SATURN L-SERIES AND ION VEHICLES WITH 2.2L ENGINES. GM'S RESPONSE INCLUDED 1,020 OWNER COMPLA...
DP05008Opened 20 Dec 2005Closed 6 Feb 2006ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
TIMING CHAIN FAILURE
ANALYSIS UNDERTAKEN IN RESPONSE TO THE PETITION IDENTIFIED 26 COMPLAINTS ALLEGING TIMING CHAIN FAILURES IN MY 2000-2003 SATURN L-SERIES VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH THE 2.2L L4 ENGINE.MOST COMPLAINTS OF TIMING CHAIN FAILURE REPORTEDLY RESULTED IN A SUDDEN LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AND STALLING.ODI ALSO NOTED THAT CERTAIN MY 2002-2003 SATURN VUE AND MY 2003 SATURN ION MODEL VEHICLES WITH THE 2.2L ENGINE VEHICLESCOVERED BY A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (03-06-01-017) THAT ADDRESSED TIMING CHAIN DESIGN AND SERVICE PROCEDURE CHANGES, EXHIBITED NO COMPLAINTS OF TIMING CHAIN FAILURE.ODI WILL GRANT THE PETITION A...
PE05010Opened 15 Feb 2005Closed 3 Jun 2005ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
INOPERATIVE TAIL LAMPS
GENERAL MOTORS HAS DECIDED THAT A SAFETY RELATED DEFECT EXISTS ON CERTAIN MODEL SATURN SEDANS AND WAGONS.THE PLASTIC HOUSING IN THE REAR TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CAN BECOME DISTORTED IF THE BRAKE LAMPS REMAIN ON FOR AN EXTENDED TIME.THIS CAN CAUSE (1) AN INTERMITTENTLY INOPERATIVE BRAKE/TAIL LAMP BULB OR (2) A SHORT CIRCUIT THAT OPENS A FUSE CAUSING INOPERATIVE BRAKE OR TAIL LAMPS (INCLUDING THE CENTER HIGH-MOUNTED STOP LAMP).GM WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL ON AN EXPANDED SCOPE OF SATURN VEHICLES TO INSTALL A REINFORCING SOCKET ADAPTER (AND CORRESPONDING NW SOCKET) TO THE BACK OF THE EXISTING LAMP A...
DP05001Opened 10 Feb 2005Closed 22 Feb 2005ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
INOPERATIVE TAIL LAMPS
ON JANUARY 25, 2005, A SAFETY DEFECT PETITION WAS RECEIVED BY THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI), REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF INOPERATIVE TAIL LAMPS ON MY 2000-2002 SATURN L-SERIES VEHICLES.THE PETITIONER ALLEGES A DEFECT IN THE DESIGN AND ASSEMBLY OF THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CIRCUIT BOARD AND LIGHT SOCKET CONTACT.THE PETITIONER IDENTIFIED 47 VEHICLE OWNER QUESTIONNAIRE'S (VOQ'S) ASSOCIATED WITH THE ALLEGED DEFECT, AND ODI CONCURS THAT 40 OF THOSE VOQ'S SATISFY THE SCOPE OF THIS INVESTIGATION.ODI HAS FOUND AN ADDITIONAL 10 VOQ'S RELATED TO THE ALLEGATION.ODI HAS GRANTED THE PETITION AN...
PE03017Opened 17 Apr 2003Closed 25 Aug 2003EXTERIOR LIGHTING
HEADLAMPS FLICKER OFF AND ON
THIS PE WAS OPENED BASED ON SIX ODI COMPLAINTS THAT HEADLAMPS FLICKER OFF AND ON, AND TWO ODI COMPLAINTS THAT THE SWITCH IS HOT TO THE TOUCH.THE INVESTIGATION HAS FOUND NO OCCURRENCES OF HEADLAMPS GOING OUT.THE COMPLAINTS ARE DUE TO SPORADIC DIMMING (FLICKERING) OF THE HEADLAMPS AS A RESULT OF VARIATION OF THE VOLTAGE TO THE HEADLAMPS.GM HAS SHOWN THAT A 1.5 -2.0 VOLTAGE DROP OCCURS WHEN OTHER ELECTRICAL DEVICES ARE ACTIVATED, HOWEVER AT NO TIME DO THE HEADLAMPS TURN COMPLETELY OFF.WITH RESPECT TO ALLEGATIONS THAT THE HEADLAMP SWITCH IS HOT TO THE TOUCH, GM REPORTS THAT THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE...
Recalls on the 2002 Saturn LS
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
05V245000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
ON CERTAIN SEDANS AND WAGONS, THE PLASTIC HOUSING IN THE REAR TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY CAN BECOME DISTORTED IF THE BRAKE LAMPS REMAIN ON FOR AN EXTENDED TIME.
Risk: THIS CAN CAUSE (1) AN INTERMITTENTLY INOPERATIVE BRAKE/TAIL LAMP BULB OR (2) A SHORT CIRCUIT THAT OPENS A FUSE CAUSING INOPERATIVE BRAKE LAMPS (INCLUDING THE CENTER HIGH-MOUNTED STOP LAMP) OR TAIL LAMPS. A FOLLOWING DRIVER MAY NOT KNOW WHEN THE BRAKES HAVE BEEN APPLIED, AND A REAR-END CRASH COULD OCCUR WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
05V158000
SEAT BELTS
CERTAIN WAGONS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES." THE SEAT BELT ANCHOR MAY SEPARATE FROM THE FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE BEFORE HOLDING THE REQUIRED TEST LOAD FOR THE REQUIRED TIME.
Risk: IF A SEPARATION OCCURRED IN CRASH, THE RIGHT AND CENTER REAR SEAT OCCUPANTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
03V231000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.2L L4 (L61) ENGINES, A FAILURE OF THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE MAY CAUSE DETERIORATION IN IDLE QUALITY, REDUCTION IN OVERALL ENGINE POWER, AND THE VEHICLE MAY BE HARD TO START. CONTINUED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE AFTER SUCH AN IGNITION MODULE FAILURE WILL RESULT IN THE "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" LIGHT FLASHING, AND MAY LEAD TO SECONDARY FAILURES OF THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, OXYGEN SENSOR, AND EXHAUST RESONATOR.
Risk: FAILURE OF THE RESONATOR WILL CAUSE INCREASED EXHAUST NOISE. PROLONGED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE FOLLOWING A RESONATOR FAILURE MAY LEAD TO A FIRE.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 200516815,080 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, the plastic housing in the rear tail lamp assembly can become distorted if the brake lamps remain on for an extended time. This can cause (1) an intermittently inoperative brake/tail lamp bulb or (2) a short circuit that opens a fuse causing inoperative brake lamps (including the center high-mounted stop lamp) or tail lamps. The loss of one of both of the tail lamps/stop lamps could reduce the vehicle's visibility to following drivers and fail to warn others that the vehicle is braking and/or stopped, which could lead to a crash. Correction: Dealers will replace the lamp socket and, if necessary, the lamp housing assembly.
Recall 200316114,184 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, a failure of the ignition control module may cause deterioration in idle quality, reduction in overall engine power and the vehicle may be hard to start.. Continued operation of the vehicle after such an ignition module failure will result in the "Service Engine Soon" light flashing, and may lead to secondary failures of the catalytic converter, oxygen sensor, and exhaust resonator. Failure of the resonator will cause increased exhaust noise and prolonged operation of the vehicle following a resonator failure may lead to an undercar fire. Correction: Dealers will (1) replace the ignition control module, or (2) replace the ignition control module and spark plugs, or (3) replace the ignition control module and spark plugs and update the powertrain control module calibration.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 144,400 milesShelbyville, TNFire1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FUEL AND COMPUTER FUSE UNDERHOOD 10AMP BLOWING UPON INSERTED
NHTSA complaint #11014679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,400 milesShelbyville, TNFire1 injured
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
FUEL AND COMPUTER FUSE UNDERHOOD 10AMP BLOWING UPON INSERTED
NHTSA complaint #11014679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,400 milesShelbyville, TNFire1 injured
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
FUEL AND COMPUTER FUSE UNDERHOOD 10AMP BLOWING UPON INSERTED
NHTSA complaint #11014679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesOAK Park, MIFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 SATURN L. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND EXITED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO EMIT SMOKE FROM THE HOOD AND SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
NHTSA complaint #10884365 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 110,000 milesOAK Park, MIFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 SATURN L. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SLOW DOWN WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND EXITED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO EMIT SMOKE FROM THE HOOD AND SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
NHTSA complaint #10884365 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Abon, INFire
STEERING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SATURN LS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH AND MAKING A TURN, SMOKE EMITTED FROM THE STEERING COLUMN AND THE TURN SIGNAL LEVER WAS ENGAGED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHENEVER THE LEFT OR RIGHT TURN SIGNALS WERE ENGAGED. THERE WERE NO FLAMES PRESENT. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 03V231000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #10845598 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Nanticoke, PA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Rear tail lights will not work. Have checked all fuses relays,and even changed the turn signal switch. My car is currently at the garage. Original appointment was only for inspection. Mechanic has not yet located the issue. Also has no dash lights. Parking lights. Had I known this in advance would have returned car immediately.
NHTSA complaint #11519745 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Nanticoke, PA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Rear tail lights will not work. Have checked all fuses relays,and even changed the turn signal switch. My car is currently at the garage. Original appointment was only for inspection. Mechanic has not yet located the issue. Also has no dash lights. Parking lights. Had I known this in advance would have returned car immediately.
NHTSA complaint #11519745 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesPhoenix, AZ
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The contact owns a 2002 Saturn J-Type. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle's brake lights failed to illuminate. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V245000 (Exterior Lighting), however, the part to do the recall repair is no longer being manufactured. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
NHTSA complaint #11515269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesPhoenix, AZ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2002 Saturn J-Type. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle's brake lights failed to illuminate. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V245000 (Exterior Lighting), however, the part to do the recall repair is no longer being manufactured. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
NHTSA complaint #11515269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Calabasas, CA
ENGINE
The same thing is happening to my car that happened to many Saturn owners of the same year. The car is turning but only stays on for a few seconds before shutting off. This seems to be the same as the ignition module and spark plugs issue as it is the same symptoms as those people were experiencing.
NHTSA complaint #11470765 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,057 milesMission Viejo, CA
ENGINE
ENGINE STALLED WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AROUND 65-70 MPH. ENGINE COULD NOT BE RESTARTED AND HAD TO BE TOWED BACK HOME. MECHANIC INSPECTION REVEALED COMPLETE LOSS OF COMPRESSION IN TWO CYLINDERS AND PARTIAL COMPRESSION LOSS IN OTHER TWO. ENGINE WAS PERMANENTLY DAMAGED AND WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED OR REBUILT AT HIGH COST IN THE THOUSANDS. ENGINE HAD 102,057 MILES AT TIME OF FAILURE.
NHTSA complaint #11395636 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesBeloit, WI
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MECHANIC FOUND SHORT CIRCUIT IN TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLIES CAUSING BRAKE LIGHTS TO COME ON, AND STAY ON, WHEN HEADLAMPS DO.
NHTSA complaint #11325941 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 175 milesLompoc, CA
STEERING
VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT 30 MPH ON CITY STREET, ENGINE COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING WITH LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. COASTED VEHICLE TO A SIDE STREET & STOPPED. HAD CAR TOWED TO A MECHANIC. WE WERE QUOTED $1700 BILL TO REPAIR DUE TO BROKEN TIMING CHAIN. RESEARCHED RECALLS AND FOUND THAT NHTSA HAD A RECALL #07V519000 FOR 2001 SATURN L100. THIS SEEMS GROSSLY SHORTSIGHTED ON THE PART OF NHTSA, AS THERE HAVE BEEN DOZENS OF DUPLICATE COMPLAINTS. THIS PROMPTED THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CONSUMERS COUNCIL TO ISSUE A DEFECT PETITION FOR 2000-2003 SATURN L SERIES WITH THE 2.2L ENGINE WITH THE NHTSA. IT IS SURPRISING HOW LITTLE EFFORT THE NHTSA HAS MADE IN LIGHT OF THE SCOPE OF THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #11257582 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 175 milesLompoc, CA
ENGINE
VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT 30 MPH ON CITY STREET, ENGINE COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING WITH LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. COASTED VEHICLE TO A SIDE STREET & STOPPED. HAD CAR TOWED TO A MECHANIC. WE WERE QUOTED $1700 BILL TO REPAIR DUE TO BROKEN TIMING CHAIN. RESEARCHED RECALLS AND FOUND THAT NHTSA HAD A RECALL #07V519000 FOR 2001 SATURN L100. THIS SEEMS GROSSLY SHORTSIGHTED ON THE PART OF NHTSA, AS THERE HAVE BEEN DOZENS OF DUPLICATE COMPLAINTS. THIS PROMPTED THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CONSUMERS COUNCIL TO ISSUE A DEFECT PETITION FOR 2000-2003 SATURN L SERIES WITH THE 2.2L ENGINE WITH THE NHTSA. IT IS SURPRISING HOW LITTLE EFFORT THE NHTSA HAS MADE IN LIGHT OF THE SCOPE OF THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #11257582 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 175 milesLompoc, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT 30 MPH ON CITY STREET, ENGINE COMPLETELY STOPPED WORKING WITH LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES. COASTED VEHICLE TO A SIDE STREET & STOPPED. HAD CAR TOWED TO A MECHANIC. WE WERE QUOTED $1700 BILL TO REPAIR DUE TO BROKEN TIMING CHAIN. RESEARCHED RECALLS AND FOUND THAT NHTSA HAD A RECALL #07V519000 FOR 2001 SATURN L100. THIS SEEMS GROSSLY SHORTSIGHTED ON THE PART OF NHTSA, AS THERE HAVE BEEN DOZENS OF DUPLICATE COMPLAINTS. THIS PROMPTED THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CONSUMERS COUNCIL TO ISSUE A DEFECT PETITION FOR 2000-2003 SATURN L SERIES WITH THE 2.2L ENGINE WITH THE NHTSA. IT IS SURPRISING HOW LITTLE EFFORT THE NHTSA HAS MADE IN LIGHT OF THE SCOPE OF THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #11257582 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Waterbury, CT
POWER TRAIN
TAKATA RECALL VEHICLE IN PARK WHEN STARTED. LIGHTS DIM AN GO BRIGHT ON DASH. FAN GOES ON WHEN MOTOR NOT HOT. WHEN FAN GOES ON AND CAR IS BEING DRIVEN CAR WILL JUMP WHEN CAR SHIFTS GEARS. I ONLY CAN DRIVE ON SIDE ROADS. TO NERVOUS TO GO ON HIGHWAY NOW. ONLY HAPPENS WHEN COOLING FAN IS ON. I HAVE SEEN LOTS OF REPORTS THAT PEOPLE POST OF OTHER CARS LIKE MINE HAVING SAME ISSUES. WAS TOLD THEY REPORTED IT. NOTHING WAS DONE. SERIOUSLY THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. SHOULDN'T MATTER WERE THE CAR WAS MADE. PARTS ARE THE SAME. I HAVEN'T BROUGHT IT IN SINCE 2017. I DON'T HAVE MONEY FOR REPAIRS OR FIX IT IF IT'S THE MANUFACTURS FAULTY PARTS. I'VE ALREADY PUT 1400 DOLLARS FOR REPLACEMENT OF FUEL PUMP AN OTHER PARTS. AN THIS PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF AN WHEN YOU CAN LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #11114655 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Waterbury, CT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TAKATA RECALL VEHICLE IN PARK WHEN STARTED. LIGHTS DIM AN GO BRIGHT ON DASH. FAN GOES ON WHEN MOTOR NOT HOT. WHEN FAN GOES ON AND CAR IS BEING DRIVEN CAR WILL JUMP WHEN CAR SHIFTS GEARS. I ONLY CAN DRIVE ON SIDE ROADS. TO NERVOUS TO GO ON HIGHWAY NOW. ONLY HAPPENS WHEN COOLING FAN IS ON. I HAVE SEEN LOTS OF REPORTS THAT PEOPLE POST OF OTHER CARS LIKE MINE HAVING SAME ISSUES. WAS TOLD THEY REPORTED IT. NOTHING WAS DONE. SERIOUSLY THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. SHOULDN'T MATTER WERE THE CAR WAS MADE. PARTS ARE THE SAME. I HAVEN'T BROUGHT IT IN SINCE 2017. I DON'T HAVE MONEY FOR REPAIRS OR FIX IT IF IT'S THE MANUFACTURS FAULTY PARTS. I'VE ALREADY PUT 1400 DOLLARS FOR REPLACEMENT OF FUEL PUMP AN OTHER PARTS. AN THIS PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF AN WHEN YOU CAN LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #11114655 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Waterbury, CT
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
TAKATA RECALL VEHICLE IN PARK WHEN STARTED. LIGHTS DIM AN GO BRIGHT ON DASH. FAN GOES ON WHEN MOTOR NOT HOT. WHEN FAN GOES ON AND CAR IS BEING DRIVEN CAR WILL JUMP WHEN CAR SHIFTS GEARS. I ONLY CAN DRIVE ON SIDE ROADS. TO NERVOUS TO GO ON HIGHWAY NOW. ONLY HAPPENS WHEN COOLING FAN IS ON. I HAVE SEEN LOTS OF REPORTS THAT PEOPLE POST OF OTHER CARS LIKE MINE HAVING SAME ISSUES. WAS TOLD THEY REPORTED IT. NOTHING WAS DONE. SERIOUSLY THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. SHOULDN'T MATTER WERE THE CAR WAS MADE. PARTS ARE THE SAME. I HAVEN'T BROUGHT IT IN SINCE 2017. I DON'T HAVE MONEY FOR REPAIRS OR FIX IT IF IT'S THE MANUFACTURS FAULTY PARTS. I'VE ALREADY PUT 1400 DOLLARS FOR REPLACEMENT OF FUEL PUMP AN OTHER PARTS. AN THIS PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF AN WHEN YOU CAN LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #11114655 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 117,000 milesGlendale, AZ
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SATURN LS. WHILE PUMPING FUEL INTO THE FUEL TANK, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT FUEL WAS LEAKING OUT OF THE TANK. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE LEAKAGE SEEMED TO COME FROM THE TUBE, BUT WAS NOT COMPLETELY SURE. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE RUSTED. THE CONTACT RESEARCHED THE FAILURE ONLINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE SERVICE ENGINE INDICATOR WAS ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 117,000.
NHTSA complaint #11073072 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 117,000 milesGlendale, AZ
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SATURN LS. WHILE PUMPING FUEL INTO THE FUEL TANK, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT FUEL WAS LEAKING OUT OF THE TANK. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE LEAKAGE SEEMED TO COME FROM THE TUBE, BUT WAS NOT COMPLETELY SURE. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE RUSTED. THE CONTACT RESEARCHED THE FAILURE ONLINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE SERVICE ENGINE INDICATOR WAS ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 117,000.
NHTSA complaint #11073072 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 117,000 milesGlendale, AZ
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SATURN LS. WHILE PUMPING FUEL INTO THE FUEL TANK, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT FUEL WAS LEAKING OUT OF THE TANK. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE LEAKAGE SEEMED TO COME FROM THE TUBE, BUT WAS NOT COMPLETELY SURE. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE RUSTED. THE CONTACT RESEARCHED THE FAILURE ONLINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE SERVICE ENGINE INDICATOR WAS ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 117,000.
NHTSA complaint #11073072 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Hill, VA
STEERING
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
NHTSA complaint #11056381 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
South Hill, VA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
HELLO I AM CONCERNED THAT MY VEHICLE HAS HAD A RECALL ON IT AND I WAS NOT AWARE OF IT I WAS ASKED TO GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU ALL ON SATURDAY WHEN THE KEYS TO MY SATURN WOULD NOT START MY VEHICLE , IT IS A USED VEHICLE, THE ONLY CAR I HAVE TO GET TO AND FROM WORK ,WHEN I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH IT AND STILL NOTHING IS WRONG EXCEPT THAT IGNITON,. I PURCHASED IT 05-09-13, I AM UNABLE TO GET TO WORK WITHOUT IT. NOW I UNDERSTAND THAT THERE WAS IN FACT A RECALL ON THIS VEHICLE ON PARTS OF IT, NOW THE PART I NEED REPAIRED IS MY IGNITION AND I SEE WHERE THAT IS PART OF YOU ALL REPAIR AGREEMENT AND I WAS WONDERING COULD YOU ALL REPAIR IT? MY VEHICLE WAS WORKING FINE UP UNTIL SATURDAY MORNING WHEN I DROVE MY VEHICLE TO THE LOCAL GROCERY STORE HER IN OUR TOWN AND ALL, I HAD GOT IN MY VEHICLE AND PUT KEY IN IGNITION AND IT WOULDN'T START, THIS HAPPENED WHEN I CAME OUT OF GROCERY STORE, THE KEY WOULDN'T BUDGE, THEREFORE I TRIED OTHER KEY THAT I HAVE TO THE CAR AND IT WOULDN'T BUDGE, I THEN PANICKED AND CALLED NEIGHBOR WHO CHECKS MY VEHICLE FROM TIME TO TIME , NOW MIND YOU WE ARE IN THE GROCERY STORES PARKING LOT IT WAS COLD AND SLIGHTLY WINDY, HE CAME OUT CHECKED ENGINE ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY IT WAS NEITHER , THEREFORE HE USED A METHOD TO GET KEY INSIDE AND TURN , WHICH HE STATED THAT THE TUMBLER INSIDE THE IGNITION HAD DROPPED , WHICH IT TOOK THE COLUMN OFF THE IGNITON AREA AND STATED THAT I NOT REMOVE KEY FROM CAR IF I WANTED TO DRIVE IT ,THAT WAS NOT WHAT I WANTED TO HEAR, I WAS HURT IT IS THE ONLY VEHICLE I CAN AFFORD AT THIS PRESENT TIME I HAD TO GET HIM TO GET IT TO MY HOUSE , AND HAVE NOT DROVE IT , NOW I HAVE TO WORK AND WITHOUT MY VEHICLE I HAVE NO ONE TO TAKE ME TO AND FROM WORK SO IF YOU CAN WILL U PLEASE SEE IF YOU CAN REPAIR MY VEHICLE. I WIL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.
NHTSA complaint #11056381 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 161,000 milesWaukegan, IL
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 SATURN LS. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIMING BELT FRACTURED AND THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 161,000.
NHTSA complaint #11047853 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,184 milesChicago, IL
POWER TRAIN
ENCOUNTERED ROUGH GEAR CHANGES WHILE DRIVING. TOOK THE CAR TO A GM DEALER FOR AN INSPECTION. THE TROUBLE CODE P1811 WAS " TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKAGE CAUSING PRESSURE CONTROL SOLENOID MALFUNCTION PER C OBT" RECOMMEND TRANSMISSION REPLACEMENT"
NHTSA complaint #11025485 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,400 milesShelbyville, TNFire1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FUEL AND COMPUTER FUSE UNDERHOOD 10AMP BLOWING UPON INSERTED
NHTSA complaint #11014679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,400 milesShelbyville, TNFire1 injured
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
FUEL AND COMPUTER FUSE UNDERHOOD 10AMP BLOWING UPON INSERTED
NHTSA complaint #11014679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,400 milesShelbyville, TNFire1 injured
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
FUEL AND COMPUTER FUSE UNDERHOOD 10AMP BLOWING UPON INSERTED
NHTSA complaint #11014679 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Logansport, IN
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
WHILE THE VEHICLE IS RUNNING AND DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD THE HEADLIGHTS WILL TURN OFF ALONG WITH ALL THE DASH LIGHTS AND ALL THE GAUGES WILL GO TO ZERO, THE INTERIOR LIGHT WILL TURN ON AND IT WILL DING (IT ACTS LIKE YOU ARE SHUTTING THE CAR OFF AND OPENING THE DOOR) A COUPLE SECONDS LATER EVERYTHING WILL TURN ON AND QUIT DINGING ALL THE DASH LIGHTS WILL BE ON (LIKE WHEN YOU START THE CAR) BACK AND FORTH ON AND OFF.
NHTSA complaint #10978673 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Logansport, IN
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
WHILE THE VEHICLE IS RUNNING AND DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD THE HEADLIGHTS WILL TURN OFF ALONG WITH ALL THE DASH LIGHTS AND ALL THE GAUGES WILL GO TO ZERO, THE INTERIOR LIGHT WILL TURN ON AND IT WILL DING (IT ACTS LIKE YOU ARE SHUTTING THE CAR OFF AND OPENING THE DOOR) A COUPLE SECONDS LATER EVERYTHING WILL TURN ON AND QUIT DINGING ALL THE DASH LIGHTS WILL BE ON (LIKE WHEN YOU START THE CAR) BACK AND FORTH ON AND OFF.
NHTSA complaint #10978673 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.