1997 Saturn SL SL1 review from North America
"I fell in love with it"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I had a front left shock loose bearing at 144,000 miles on the highway - Fixed for 300 bucks.
Oil change every 2K miles, burns oil like nothing in the summer heat.
My left window fell out of the track around 135,000 miles, but was easy to repair.
The power steering wheel has become a little more tense, but still works.
The key got stuck for the first time around 130,000 miles - However was able to fix the problem. Got it out by lifting upward and slightly turning the key to the off position. Has only happened three or four times.
I have yet (Knock on wood) to put any serious work into the car, most if not all of my visits to the mechanic were due to the following:
- New breaks
- Wheel alignment
- Oil change / Coolant flush
- Starters.
General comments?
Absolutely in love with it. I've taken that car all over the Eastern coast with no problems, car runs like a champ when doing 60MPH @ 2K RPM getting me almost 40 miles to the gallon.
NEVER put more than 9.5 gallons of gas in when stopping to refuel. Excellent gas mileage.
Car is comfy, but definitely not a speedster. Service Engine Soon light is always on (Oxygen sensor).
I've pushed it to 110MPH with no problem several times. Car idles nicely, I find it performs better during the winter however.
I recommend Saturn's and my next car will most likely be one as well.
Recommended reviews
| This is a perfect commuter car at a great price |
| One of the better 500 dollar beaters I've ever bought! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 76000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 144000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Tempo |
| Date of Entry | 17th July, 2006 |