1999 Saturn SL SL2 review from North America
"Amazingly reliable with minimal maintenance"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Since the last review I submitted of my 1999 Saturn SL2 there have been no major or minor failures anywhere on the vehicle. The only thing worth mentioning is the fact that the engine goes through about 1.5 quarts of oil between oil changes which I religiously change myself every 3000 miles. The oil burning has been the trend for the last 40,000 miles or so. However, from what I have heard this seems to be a common thing in Saturns with this engine.
General comments?
The 1999 Saturn SL2 is an amazing vehicle in my estimation. Never before have I owned a vehicle so reliable. I have personally drove this car over 60,000 miles in two years with no major or minor failures of any kind. Tires and a front-end alignment is the only time this car has ever been in the shop.
The gas mileage of this car is outstanding to this day. I average 37 mpg summer, 33 mpg winter. Since gas seems to not be getting any cheaper the fuel economy is a big plus.
Living in northern Michigan I have realized the car does good in the snow as long as it doesn't bottom out; this is a must for me. Handling after all these miles is still agile and responsive as well.
My only major complaint up to now is the uncomfortable seats. An hour or more of driving will make you stiff and sore.
If my Saturn is alive in another 60,000 miles I'll make sure to add another review of the SL2 that just keeps going.
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| 1998 - SL 2 1.9L 16-valve DOHC Affordable, unbreakable compact with the soul of a sport sedan |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9L DOHC four cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 84000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 149000 miles |
| Previous car | AMC Eagle |
| Date of Entry | 31st May, 2004 |