1996 Saturn SL SL2 review from North America
"Good, serviceable, reliable car."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I have had no major troubles in the year I have had this car. Based on the service history I got from the previous owners, it hasn't had many problems over its lifetime. The only part I have had to replace is the O2 sensor, probably the original at about 115000 miles. The only other defect is slight rust on the bottom of the doors.
General comments?
Overall, I really like this car. It handles well, has enough power for its size, and gets good gas mileage (30-32mpg). Its only short coming is the lack of overdrive, (4 speed automatic), causing the engine to run about 3000 rpm at 70 mph. Noise is not so great that it is annoying, there are no serious rattles or obnoxious noises.
It does use some oil, not much though for a car its age. I usually have to add a quart halfway between changes (every 5000 miles). It has served me well without being costly to run or maintain.
Recommended reviews
| What a piece of junk! |
| Avoid Saturn |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 1996 |
| Year of manufacture | 1995 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9L DOHC Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 109000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 119500 miles |
| Date of Entry | 15th April, 2008 |