1997 Saturn SL structure problems
13 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the structure on the 1997 Saturn SL — 6% 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
“During oil change discovered that front subframe was rusted through at control arm attachment point, drivers side. Car was removed from service as this is a major safety issue affecting suspension and steering. Tried to find a used subframe but all in local auto parts recyclers were just as badly…”
filed Jun 17, 2014
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Structure problems in other SL years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 SL | 3 | 2% |
| 2001 SL | 4 | 4% |
| 2000 SL | 6 | 4% |
| 1999 SL | 3 | 2% |
| 1998 SL | 9 | 5% |
| 1996 SL | 12 | 4% |
| 1995 SL | 8 | 2% |
| 1994 SL | 3 | 1% |
| 1993 SL | 7 | 4% |
| 1992 SL | 1 | 1% |
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.