2000 Saturn Sl Problems
The 2000 Saturn SL has 179 NHTSA complaints and 8 recalls, with engine and transmission issues dominating owner reports. Based on 179 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Engine Problems the most reported area.
Before you buy
This 2000 Saturn Sl has 179 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Engine Problems.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2000 Saturn Sl Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 4 2000 Saturn Sl trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 4 trims analysed.
2000 Saturn Sl Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not RatedFrontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
Not RatedSource: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
SATURN SL 2000 model year has 179 NHTSA complaints and 8 recalls. Engine Problems (38) and Transmission issues (37) are the top concerns. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Saturn
- Model
- Sl
- Model year
- 2000
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 179
- Crash-related complaints
- 11
- Safety recall campaigns
- 8
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 27
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 23 / 34
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- No
Common problems
Most common 2000 Saturn Sl problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Transmission / Drivetrain
Electrical Faults
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Transmission / Drivetrain, Electrical Faults. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2000 Saturn Sl?
The 2000 Saturn SL is a high-risk purchase due to frequent engine and transmission complaints. Only consider if you are prepared for possible repairs and have a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Engine and transmission problems are costly to repair and can leave you stranded. Electrical faults and brake issues add to the ownership burden.
May Suit
This year may suit a budget-conscious buyer willing to accept higher maintenance risk for a low initial price.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking reliable daily transportation or those without mechanical skills should avoid this model year.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2000 Saturn Sl
Inspection Focus
- Check engine for unusual noises, leaks, and check engine light.
- Test transmission for smooth shifting and no slipping.
- Inspect electrical system: lights, windows, and dashboard warnings.
Before You Close the Deal
- Verify all 8 recalls have been completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine and transmission repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
- Test drive to check for transmission slipping and engine stalling.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2000 Saturn Sl, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2000 Saturn SL shows a high volume of engine and transmission complaints relative to its single model year. With 179 total complaints and 8 recalls, buyers should expect potential powertrain and electrical problems. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Only the 2000 model year was analyzed, so no direct comparison to other years is available.
Recall context: With 8 recalls, verify all recall repairs have been completed before purchase.
- Engine Problems account for 38 complaints, the highest count.
- Transmission / Drivetrain issues total 37 complaints.
- Electrical Faults are reported in 34 complaints.
- Engine Problems (38 complaints) – potential stalling or failure.
- Transmission / Drivetrain (37 complaints) – shifting or slipping issues.
- Electrical Faults (34 complaints) – wiring or component failures.
Full breakdown
All 2000 Saturn Sl complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2000 Saturn Sl. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 38 | — | 2 | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 37 | — | 1 | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 34 | — | 1 | — | |
| Brake System | 16 | 2 | 1 | — | |
| Tire Issues | 16 | 1 | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 14 | 2 | 1 | — | |
| Steering Defects | 13 | — | 1 | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 9 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 8 | 1 | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 7 | — | 1 | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 6 | 4 | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 6 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 5 | 4 | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 4 | 1 | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Other | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Diesel | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Air | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Interior Lighting | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2000 Saturn Sl. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
HIT MOUNTAIN HEAD ON AND CAR ROLLED AND AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. REAR TIRE AND DRUM BROKE OFF CAR WHILE DOING 50 MILE PER HOUR
THERE IS NO ISSUE WITH MY BRAKE LIGHT BULB IT IS NOT BURNT OUT. ALL THE FUSES HAVE BEEN CHECKED OVER BY QUALIFIED SALESPERSON WHO HAD SHOWN ME THAT MY THAT MY BRAKE LIGHT WAS STILL WORKING, AND YET MY BRAKE LIGHT DOES NOT WORK. I AM AFRAID OF DRIVING AT NIGHT, AND WORRY CONSTAN…
THE TIMING CHAIN WENT OUT AND NEEDS REPLACED. THE ENGINE CRANKS BUT WILL NOT TURN OVER. OUR MECHANIC TOLD US WE'RE LOOKING AT A $1000 PLUS REPAIR. *TR
SOON AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE WE STARTED HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH. SOMETIMES IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO EVEN START THE CAR AS THE SWITCH WOULD BE FROZEN IN PLACE. AFTER SOME PLAY WITH THE STEERING WHEEL IT WOULD WORK. THEN THERE WERE TIMES YOU COULD NOT TURN THE…
I TURNED MY CAR INTO A PARKING LOT, AND THE ENGINE SUDDENLY JUST QUIT WORKING. AFTER SEVERAL MINUTES I WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE CAR, IT ALSO HAPPENED AGAIN WHILE I WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT, AND AGAIN WHEN I MADE A LEFT TURN INTO ANOTHER PARK LOT,ALL ON THE SAME DAY IN LESS THAN…
CAR WILL TURN OVER AND IMMEDIATELY STALL. THIS WILL CONTINUE FOR APPROX. 10 TO 15 MIN.EACH TIME YOU TURN THE KEY,IT WILL TURN OVER AND IMMEDIATELY STALL. AS IF THERE IS NO GAS GOING TO THE FUEL INJECTORS; OR THE FUEL INJECTORS STOP . NO MECHANIC CAN SEEM TO FIND THE PROBLEM SINCE…
KEY FALLS OUT OF IGNITION WHILE DRIVING! THIS NEEDS TO BE RECALLED WITH ALL OF THE OTHER GM VEHICLES. THIS IS A DANGER AND SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET SERIOUSLY INJURED! STEP UP GM AND FIX THE COST CUTTING CORNERS YOU CUT AND PUT YOUR CUSTOMERS AT RISK! *TR
ROLL PIN ON RETAINER IN TRANSMISSION DIFFERENTIAL SHEERED OFF CAUSING THE RETAINING PIN TO WEAR THROUGH THE BELL HOUSING AND SEIZE TRANSMISSION. A ROLL PIN IS LIKE USING A RIVET TO HOLD A VERY IMPORTANT MECHANICAL COMPONENT TOGETHER. THIS IS ANOTHER HORRIBLE GM DESIGN. THIS IS AN…
JUST WANTING TO LET YOU KNOW THAT WHEN THE CAR IS MOVING OR STILL, I CAN MOVE THE SHIFT FROM D TO N WITHOUT HAVING TO PRESS THE BUTTON TO UNLOCK THE SHIFTER. SAME CAN BE SAID FROM N TO R. I'VE NEVER TRIED IT WHEN IT'S MOVING, BUT WHEN THE CAR IS STOPPED, I CAN PUSH IT FROM D TO R…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 SATURN SL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING AT UNKNOWN SPEEDS, THE KEY COULD BE REMOVED AND THE VEHICLE WOULD CONTINUE TO OPERATE AS NORMAL. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 SATURN SL. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING AND IT WAS COASTED TO THE EMERGENCY LANE. THE CONTACT MADE SEVERAL FAILED ATTEMPTS TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AN INDEPENDENT MECHA…
HAD A FEW MONTHS, HOT SUMMER AND KEY WOULD NOT TURN IN IGNITION. MANUAL THAT CAME WITH CAR SAID THIS COULD HAPPEN AND IF IT DID TO TURN THE WHEEL, JIGGLE THE SHIFT, ETC. WOULD NOT HAVE THIS TROUBLE EXCEPT IN HOT WEATHER. ON OCT 29, 2010 I HAD LOCK CYLINDER & KEYS REPLACED AT M…
IMPORTANT, I DO NOT KNOW THE DATES SO I HAD TO JUST PUT IN A RANDOM ONE. THIS CAR TURNED ITSELF OFF ON 3 OCCASIONS. I BROUGHT IT TO SATURN ON ALL THE INCIDENTS. I WOULD BE DRIVING AND START TO BREAK AND DOWNSHIFT AND THE CAR WOULD LITERALLY JUST TURN OFF, AND I WAS LITERALLY AT T…
I INSERTED THE KEY TO START THE CAR AND THE CYLINDER WOULD NOT TURN; THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED; HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED. HAPPENED AGAIN 4-3-08 AND HAD ANOTHER NEW KEY CYLINDER INSTALLED, ODOMETER THEN 35449. IT STILL FEELS "STICKY" WHEN I TURN THE KEY AND FEELS LIKE IT COULD …
REAR DOOR LATCHES DO NOT ALWAYS LATCH AFTER CLOSING REAR DOORS (SL2-4 DOOR SEDAN). EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLES WILL STICK IN OPEN POSITION. IF NOT NOTICED, DOORS WILL OPEN WHEN DRIVING, USUALLY WHEN BRAKING OR MAKING A TURN. REAR SEAT PASSENGERS OR ITEMS COULD BE EJECTED FROM VEHICL…
TIMING CHAIN FAILURE OF SATURN 2000 TODAY WHILE DRIVING ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY MY SATURN STOPPED WORKING AND I HAD TO DRIFT TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD PARK IN A DANGEROUS LOCATION GET TOWED ONLY TO FIND OUT IT WAS THE TIMING CHAIN THAT BROKE CAUSING A CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE.…
KEY FIT IN IGNITION BUT WOULD NOT TURN, TRIED TURNING STEERING WHEEL BACK AND FORTH IN LOCKED POSITION WHILE TURNING KEY BUT TO NO AVAIL. AFTER APPROXIMATELY 5-10 MINUTES KEY WOULD FINALLY TURN AND ALLOW ME TO START VEHICLE BUT THE SAME THING HAPPENED THE NEXT TIME I TRIED TO STA…
TWICE I WAS STOPPING THE CAR--ONCE TO PARK AND ONCE AT A LIGHT AND INSTEAD OF STOPPING THE ENGINE REVVED UP AT FULL THROTTLE DRAGGING THE CAR FORWARD EVEN WITH THE BRAKES PRESSED FULLY DOWN. I HAD TO THROW THE TRANSMISSION INTO NEUTRAL AND CUT THE ENGINE OFF TO STOP IT. NO REASON…
FUEL SYSTEM,GASOLINE:STORAGE TANK ASSEMBLY.NHTSA ID #00V309000. SPOKE TO A PERSON TODAY AND THEY SAID THAT MY CAE IS NOT ONE OF THE AFFECTED VEHICLES IN THIS RECALL. I HAVE THIS CAR ALMOST 7 YEARS AND NEVER RECEIVED A NOTICE OF THIS. HOW CAN I MAKE SURE THAT MY CAR IS NOT AFFECTE…
MY 2000 SATURN SL1 SOMETIMES HAS REVERSE & SOMETIMES NOT & TO GET IT TO GO INTO REVERSE YOU HAVE TO GIVE IT A LOT OF GAS & IT HAS WENT IN REVERSE AT LOW & HIGH SPEEDS. THIS COULD BE DANGEROUS. *TR
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2000 Saturn Sl.
Safety recalls
2000 Saturn Sl recalls
8 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2000 Saturn Sl. With 8 recalls, verify all recall repairs have been completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
STRUCTURE:BODY
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
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Questions
2000 Saturn Sl buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2000 Saturn Sl reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 179 owner complaints, 11 crash-related complaints, and 8 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2000 Saturn SL is a high-risk purchase due to frequent engine and transmission complaints. Only consider if you are prepared for possible repairs and have a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2000 Saturn Sl?▾
#1: Engine Problems (38 complaints). #2: Transmission / Drivetrain (37 complaints). #3: Electrical Faults (34 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2000 Saturn Sl?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2000 Saturn Sl?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2000 Saturn Sl, NHTSA complaints include 11 crash-related reports and 4 fire reports out of 179 total complaints. 13 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2000 Saturn Sl have any recalls?▾
Yes. 8 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2000 Saturn Sl. A major recall area is EXTERIOR LIGHTING. With 8 recalls, verify all recall repairs have been completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2000 Saturn Sl?▾
The 2000 Saturn SL is a high-risk purchase due to frequent engine and transmission complaints. Only consider if you are prepared for possible repairs and have a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Engine and transmission problems are costly to repair and can leave you stranded. Electrical faults and brake issues add to the ownership burden. Pay extra attention to Engine Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpectorAI.
Wider context: See the full Saturn Sl reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2000 Saturn Sl based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.