1999 Saturn SL engine problems
Owners reported engine problems in 44 complaints for the 1999 Saturn SL, 19% of the complaints on file. It is the most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 44 19% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 75,000 miles 22 complaints with mileage
- Crashes and fires
- 0 and 1
- Injuries and deaths
- 0 and 0
Source: NHTSA owner complaints
When engine problems show up
View the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 0k to 20k miles | 1 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 2 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 4 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 5 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 5 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 4 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 0 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 1 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 0 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 0 |
| 200k+ miles | 0 |
What the data shows
Of the 22 engine complaints that report mileage, the median is about 75,000 miles, and 32% were reported before 60,000 miles.
These complaints mention 1 fire.
What owners wrote
While exiting the freeway, I came to a stop at the end of the ramp at a red light, the auto stalled, I tried to restart it without success, I then saw black smoke billowing from the engine compartment, by the thme the fire dept. Arrived the front end of the car was completely destroyed. The headlights were melted, as was the fenders and front bumper.
Air conditioning failed at 4 years, 4 months. New compressor needed, according to both saturn dealership and independent garage. Not yet replaced. Waiting to see if there is a hidden service bulletin by which saturn will replace at reduced cost.
Other problems reported for the 1999 Saturn SL
- Brakes 36 complaints
- Electrical system 23 complaints
- Air bags 20 complaints
- Transmission 19 complaints