1997 Saturn SL engine and engine cooling problems
38 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine and engine cooling on the 1997 Saturn SL — 17% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Severe rust out of the suspension sub-frame (engine cradle) along the left side, particularly at the lower control arm mount pocket. This condition was caught before the left front lower control arm broke loose due to the rusted sub-frame. Rust condition was confined to the left side of the…”
filed Nov 12, 2014
“Tl*the contact owns a 1997 saturn sl2. While driving 35 mph, the contact noticed smoke rising from the hood. He then pulled over as the smoke turned into flames. After he extinguished the fire, he restarted the vehicle and oil sprayed out from the cylinder head. The dealer has not inspected the…”
filed Aug 6, 2007
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Engine and Engine Cooling problems in other SL years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 SL | 16 | 12% |
| 2001 SL | 18 | 16% |
| 2000 SL | 34 | 23% |
| 1999 SL | 45 | 25% |
| 1998 SL | 28 | 17% |
| 1996 SL | 63 | 22% |
| 1995 SL | 67 | 19% |
| 1994 SL | 38 | 13% |
| 1993 SL | 30 | 17% |
| 1992 SL | 24 | 20% |
| 1991 SL | 2 | 7% |
Other reported problem areas on the 1997 Saturn SL
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.