1996 Saturn SL SL1 review from North America

This vehicle has less than 90,000 miles on it and has a blown head gasket. I unknowingly purchased it in this condition. I have had this car for about two weeks and have gone through three quarts of oil- I don't know if this has all gone into the coolant (that's what blew the gasket) or if it's also one of Saturn's other oil consumption problems at work.

After purchasing this vehicle I found a wealth of information on the Internet about this known defect of Saturn's. From what I can determine they are admitting the problem for the 1994-1996 years, and extended a "secret" warranty. However, the warranty expired after 6 years, so I am out of luck. I am hoping to find someone out there who is filing a class action lawsuit, though I have no idea how feasible that would be for a nine-year-old car. But I do know that Saturn has admitted (quietly) to this defect and there is no logical reason as to why this car should have a blown head gasket at 88,000 miles.

My last two cars, both Honda's, ran to 150,000 with only regular maintenance costs, and are probably still running today.

I will never buy GM again.

My hope is to dissuade any possible Saturn purchaser from believing all the hype. Saturn does not live up to it's promises and is knowingly selling defective cars. From what I have read, the problems extend at least until 2001. But don't take my word for it, do the research yourself! I wish I would have.