1996 Saturn SL 2 review from North America

I like my car because it is paid off. Although I've had my moments of frustration. I've done all of the work on the car myself saving me about 1000 dollars. I highly recommend buying a Chilton repair manual if you plan on doing the work yourself and prepare to get dirty.

I first replaced the water pump at 175,000. The bearings on the pulley went out and leaked profusley. It cost me 70.00. I also replaced the drive belt at this time.

I then had to replace the radiator after it cracked at 192,000. It cost $115. This was due in part to the contents of my overfill cap deteriorating into the overfill tank. If your cap is rotting get a new one for about 13.00 at your Saturn dealer. It could save you a lot of trouble.

Most recently I replaced the spark plugs and the plug wires and have saved myself about 10.00 a week in gas and gained some horse power. One of the plug holes had oil in it so I replaced the valve cover gasket. In all this project cost me $80.00.

I replaced the upper and lower engine mounts at 196,000. My car used to vibrate and rattle and now it feels like a new car. Cost $80.00.

I replaced the belt tension-er at 194,000. It would make a loud rattling noise especially if the AC was on. Cost $70.00.

I have also had the headliner replaced.

I change the brakes and the oil myself.

Good car if you don't mind working on it.

Take good care of your transmission. My reverse takes a second to engage after I put it in gear.

Like I said before I like my car because it is paid off. But you will have problems.