2001 Saturn LS
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
These records cover every 2001 Saturn LS. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
7 recalls name the 2001 Saturn LS. Newest first.
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with a 2.2L 4-cylinder engine, links in the engine's timing chain can separate.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If a timing chain link separates while the engine IS running, the engine will stall and will not restart increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the timing chain free of charge. the recall began on january 15, 2008. owners may contact saturn at 1-800-972-8876.
On certain sedans and wagons, the plastic housing in the rear tail lamp assembly can become distorted if the brake lamps remain on for an extended time.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This can cause (1) an intermittently inoperative brake/tail lamp bulb or (2) a short circuit that opens a fuse causing inoperative brake lamps (including the center high-mounted stop lamp) or tail lamps. a following driver may not know when the brakes have been applied, and a rear-end crash could occur without prior warning.
Remedy
Dealers will install two new tail lamp reinforcing socket adapters and sockets free of charge. the recall began on october 17, 2005. owners may contact saturn at 1-800-972-8876.
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with 2.2L L4 (L61) engines, a failure of the ignition control module may cause deterioration in idle quality, reduction in overall engine power, and the vehicle may be hard to start. continued operation of the vehicle after such an ignition module failure will result in the "service engine soon" light flashing, and…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Failure of the resonator will cause increased exhaust noise. prolonged operation of the vehicle following a resonator failure may lead to a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will (1) replace the ignition control module, (2) replace the ignition control module and spark plugs, or (3) replace the ignition control module, spark plugs, and update the powertrain control module calibration. owner notification began on august 4, 2003. owners should contact saturn at 1-800-553-6000, prompt 3.
On certain passenger, sport utility vehicles and MINI vans, some of these vehicles have a passenger air bag that was manufactured without a check valve pin. an air bag without the check valve pin could produce increased pressure at the onset of the air bag deployment and reduced pressure afterward.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could increase the severity of injury to a person who was not properly restrained and who was close to the passenger air bag at the time of deployment. it could also reduce the ab8ility of the air bag to protect a restrained front seat passenger.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the passenger air bag. owner notification began december 16, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, pontiac at 1-800-762-2737, oldsmobile at 1-800-442-6537, or saturn at 1-800-553-6000, prompt #3.
Vehicle description: passenger, sport utility vehicles and minivans. the passenger air bag inflator modules were built without the correct amount of generant, which produces the gas that fills the air bag. some were built with a double load of generant and some were built without generant.
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash that would trigger a passenger air bag deployment, a double load of generant can cause the inflator module to explode. if the air bag module explodes, metal and plastic debris could cause severe injury to vehicle occupant. a module with no generant would not inflate the air bag, and the occupants could receive more severe injuries.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the passenger air bag module. telephone calls were made to owners on january 29, 2001. follow up owner mailing began on april 17, 2001. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, pontiac at 1-800-762-2737, or saturn at 1-800-553-6000.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with automatic transaxles. some of these vehicles were assembled with the transaxle shift cable clip missing or improperly seated. without the clip, the cable can slip out of its bracket and the transaxle lever would not move along with the shift lever. the driver may put the shift lever in park, but the…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Unexpected movement of the vehicle could cause a crash without prior warning.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the transaxle shift cable retainer clip to verify proper installation and, if necessary, replace the clip and adjust the cable to specifications.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with a side impact air bag system. the air bag system has a lower side impact safing sensor threshold than specified. because of this reduced threshold, there could be an inadvertent deployment of the side head curtain air bag with severe slamming of the door.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could cause injury to an occupant.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the inflatable restraint sensing and diagnostic module assembly.
Owner complaints
582 complaints14 involved a crash14 involved a fire19 injuries3 deaths
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Seats › Front assembly › Power adjust
The contact owns a 2001 Saturn LS1. The contact stated that the front driver’s seat failed to operate as intended. The contact stated that the power adjust switch was inoperable. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the electrical wiring for…
The contact owns a 2001 Saturn LS1. The contact stated that the front driver’s seat failed to operate as intended. The contact stated that the power adjust switch was inoperable. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the electrical wiring for the switch was damaged. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
- Engine
Recall bulletin #06074a ,timing chain engine stall. I called gm,and gm arbitration and they said I have no recallcs. This car only has 28,700 miles on it!! My Vin fits the criteria of the recall,and I went to the dealership and they confirmed it,but GM does not acknowledge it! page 4, dealer…
Recall bulletin #06074a ,timing chain engine stall. I called gm,and gm arbitration and they said I have no recallcs. This car only has 28,700 miles on it!! My Vin fits the criteria of the recall,and I went to the dealership and they confirmed it,but GM does not acknowledge it! page 4, dealer recall responsibility-all. 2nd paragraph Dealers are to service All vehicals subject to this recall, regardless of milage,age of vehical,vehicle, ownership as of Jan ,2008. I'm the 2nd owner,and there is no documentation that this recall was preformed, 2 others were repaired. I have the car fax for this vehicle. My repair shop said it will cost @ $ 1000.00 to repair it. I'd be happy with a repair or a restoration check from Gm. I started a "Gm service request claim" # 9-7361453168. They never called me back,they canceled/ closed the request and did not approve the recall!! I'm at a loss at what to do at this point.Any help would be appreciated! Thankyou,Charlie
- Fuel system, gasoline
The contact owns a 2001 Saturn L200. The contact stated while driving, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed with the fuel pump needing to be…
The contact owns a 2001 Saturn L200. The contact stated while driving, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed with the fuel pump needing to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired however, the contact removed the fuel tank. The contact was relating the failure to an unknown recall. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The contact was informed that a tow truck would pick up the vehicle and transport it to the local dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 226,000. THE CONUMER STATED THE PASSENGERS HAD HEADACHES, STOMACH ACHES, COUGHING AND BREATHING ISSUES WHILE RIDING IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2001 saturn ls200. The contact stated that fuel leaked onto the rear passenger seat and carpet. the contact removed the fuel tank from the vehicle. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure and agreed to have the vehicle towed to a local dealer. Once the vehicle was…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 saturn ls200. The contact stated that fuel leaked onto the rear passenger seat and carpet. the contact removed the fuel tank from the vehicle. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure and agreed to have the vehicle towed to a local dealer. Once the vehicle was towed to cable dahmer chevrolet of independence located at (1834 s noland rd, independence, mo 64055), the contact was informed that due to the age of the vehicle, the vehicle could not be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 264,000.
- Unknown or other
I was driving my car and it stalled and would not restart. I had it diagnosed by a mechanic and it IS the timing chain. From what I've researched, this year make and model vehicle had a recall but only on specific ones made within a four month period but my car falls into the recall description and I'm not sure about the time frame. My car was being driven on the highway at about 55 mph when this happened.
- Unknown or other
Ignition cylinder seized in ignition housing.
- Electrical system · Engine and engine cooling · Power train
Well first my engine control monitor IS sending a bunch of random off codes from ma's air sensor vol low to crankshaft sensor volume low to O2 sensors to transmission codes, my side airbag on driver side blue up out of no were my key fob stopped reading and now my car won't start I know all of a…
Well first my engine control monitor IS sending a bunch of random off codes from ma's air sensor vol low to crankshaft sensor volume low to O2 sensors to transmission codes, my side airbag on driver side blue up out of no were my key fob stopped reading and now my car won't start I know all of a sudden it's sending off codes for camshaft sensor and O2 sensors I believe there should be a recall on the ecm it's a very expensive replacement that seems to be a common failure it's dangers and defective.my car locked up in middle of I busy intersection do to these codes and low voltage readings my name IS [xxx] I live at [xxx] my #[xxx] accident date 10/17/2017 information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6). *tr
- Exterior lighting
Having trouble with brake lights bulbs and 3RD brake light
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Fuel/propulsion system
The saturn l series when filled with gasoline will stall causing imminent harm to the driver, passengers, and any other cars on the road. In addition, the dashboard at night IS so dim that it cannot be seen by the driver. There are several electrical failures involving this vehicle.
- Exterior lighting
I'm having the exact problem as recall 05v245000. Examining my car confirms this was not replaced. It has shorted out multiple times having me drive at night time with no lights! This IS dangerous and has almost caused me an accident several times.
- Unknown or other
Car stopped while at a stop light just after exiting the freeway , and would not restart. after walking home, had car towed to a car repair shop. they determined that the timing cable had broken and had damaged other parts of the engine. we noticed that there IS a recall in place for some saturns, but don't know if our car IS included in the recall.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Gas fumes are coming from the rear of the vehicle. A mechanic told me that the plastic gas tank has a small crack. Gass appears to be vaporizing. There IS no leakage of liqid gas that can be identified. Gas vapor permeates that interior to varying degree but IS usually evident on the vehicle…
Gas fumes are coming from the rear of the vehicle. A mechanic told me that the plastic gas tank has a small crack. Gass appears to be vaporizing. There IS no leakage of liqid gas that can be identified. Gas vapor permeates that interior to varying degree but IS usually evident on the vehicle exterior. I cant rull out that the leak may originate from a ruptured line, fitting, or failed filter. Availability of new oem fuel tanks IS a problem probably related to the discontinuation of the saturn line by gm. I have read several other accounts of saturn gas leaks on internet bulletin boards. Given the potential catastrophic consequences including property loss and human injury and death, the government should launch an investigation to identify the defective component (s) and initiate a recall to correct the problem. Of all the vehicles I have owned this IS the only one where in the face of multiple reports by consumers of gas odors/leaks from the saturn l series, no action has been taken to investigate and initiate a recall. This IS a problem of the highest order. Investigation should be fast tracked and relief should be granted to saturn owners who have to shoulder the burden of repairing/replacing unsafe fuel system components.
- Air bags · Electrical system · Engine
Ignition problems with only 88,000 milesdoes my car fit the gm recall.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2001 saturn L100 (na). The contact stated that the ignition was stuck in the accessory mode and would not shift to the locked position. The contact stated that the key could be removed from the ignition, but the accessory mode was still engaged. As a result, the doors on the…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 saturn L100 (na). The contact stated that the ignition was stuck in the accessory mode and would not shift to the locked position. The contact stated that the key could be removed from the ignition, but the accessory mode was still engaged. As a result, the doors on the vehicle could not be locked. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 92,000. ...Updated 08/15/16 *bf the consumer stated she was able to remove the key from the ignition, while the vehicle was in motion. Updated 08/17/16.*jb
- Air bags · Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2001 saturn LS. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 20 mph, the air bag and the engine warning indicators illuminated continuously. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the air bag was removed and not replaced with another. The contact was uncertain of…
TL* the contact owns a 2001 saturn LS. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 20 mph, the air bag and the engine warning indicators illuminated continuously. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the air bag was removed and not replaced with another. The contact was uncertain of the location of the air bag that was removed. The failure persisted after the repair. In addition, the engine oil leaked onto the ground. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 86,726. updated 09/08/16*lj *cn
- Engine · Service brakes · Steering
Driving down in congested morning traffic on highway when engine shut off. with engine off, brakes hard to push and steering very difficult. vehicle coasted to stop. Engine would not restart. it just turned over. shop said timing chain snapped and engine had to be replaced.
- Engine
Vehicle stalled while driving and would not turn back over. found out later it was timing chain failure. The vehicle was traveling at highway speed in sourt carolina.
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2001 saturn LS. When the vehicle was started, it immediately stalled without warning. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the timing chain needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 07v519000 (engine) the manufacturer was notified of failure. The failure mileage was 62,000.
- Engine · Unknown or other
Car IS 2001 saturn L200 with less than 100,000 miles and the timing chain broke as the car was pulling into the driveway. my vin IS not covered by the timing chain recall issued by gm, so I now have a completely unusable car which IS rated in good condition other than the timing chain unless I…
Car IS 2001 saturn L200 with less than 100,000 miles and the timing chain broke as the car was pulling into the driveway. my vin IS not covered by the timing chain recall issued by gm, so I now have a completely unusable car which IS rated in good condition other than the timing chain unless I want to spend the 1000 plus to fix it. gm/nhtsa issued recall number 07v519000 for other similar saturns in year and model for the timing chain, why not all of them in the same years? after speaking with gm and researching the part number, my chain was built in the same wilmington delaware plant with the manufacture default diagnosis as the other recalled timing chains belonging to other 2001, 2002, 2003 saturn l series cars. this needs to be a covered recall for this car as well as there IS obviously an issue with these chains breaking in the cars- thank goodness I was only pulling into the driveway when it broke rather than driving in heavy traffic on the road. make this right gm- and cover this repair for this car.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2001 saturn LS. The contact stated that while driving at 55 mph, the frontal passenger air bag suddenly deployed without any warnings. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 198,000. The vin was not available.
- Engine · Seats
While driving my cars idle dropped and stalked my car in the middle of a turn. I got it restsrted and made it home. The next day driving out of town with infant in the back it stalled again. This time leaving us stranded in a intersection. Kind people pushed us off the busy roadway I had to have it…
While driving my cars idle dropped and stalked my car in the middle of a turn. I got it restsrted and made it home. The next day driving out of town with infant in the back it stalled again. This time leaving us stranded in a intersection. Kind people pushed us off the busy roadway I had to have it towed my husband discovered it was my iac valve. To replace this its over 150 dollars it continues to leave me stranded when I turn and when im in a intersection! My interior on my drivers seat has sunk to below the metal seat frame I have to sit on pillows to see properly!
- Engine · Power train · Suspension
Replaced water pump, timing chain and pulleys at approximately 90K miles. App. 10K miles later, timing chain broke and had to be replaced again. Multiple issues with suspension, fuel sensors, oil filter casing.
- Engine
We drove the car to eat. When we came back out the car would not start. We had it towed to the mechanic and he told us the timing chain jumped a couple of teeth. It also bent some or all the values. The same makes and models have had recalls for this issue. Our car was not under recall for some reason. What if I was driving 70 mph and this happened we could of been in a huge wreck. *tr
- Engine · Power train
Good afternoon, I am a the original saturn owner who never received recall information regarding my 2001 saturn l series. I have experienced various problems that directly correlate to the recall listed below: recall 07v519000-pertaining to engine and engine cooling potential number of…
Good afternoon, I am a the original saturn owner who never received recall information regarding my 2001 saturn l series. I have experienced various problems that directly correlate to the recall listed below: recall 07v519000-pertaining to engine and engine cooling potential number of units affected: 20,514 summary: on certain passenger vehicles equipped with a 2.2L 4-cylinder engine, links in the engine's timing chain can separate. consequence: if a timing chain link separates while the engine IS running, the engine will stall and will not restart increasing the risk of a crash. remedy: dealers will replace the timing chain free of charge. The recall began on january 15, 2008. Owners may contact saturn at 1-800-972-8876. the recall listed above has effected our vehicle on two different occasions; the first of which was fixed out of our own pocket for $4,614.29 on 9/18/12. I have receipts to prove these repairs. Also, this recall effected our vehicle a second time on 12/4/2014. Unfortunately, due to our current circumstances we are unable to fix this vehicle out of our own pocket again. We love this car, and hope you can be of assistance. thank you in advance. *js
- Power train
Car lost power on freeway at 60 m/hr. Car was towed to repair shop. Timing chain was found broken. Repair cost IS estimated to be about $2000. Saturn dealer claimed that recall gm #06074 does not apply to my vin. I must pay for all tow, repair costs. *js
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Timing chain breaks, engine stall
On may 22, 2008, theoffice of defects investigation (odi) was petitioned by the north carolina consumers council (nccc) to broaden the scope of safety recall 07v-519, which was conducted by general motors corporation (gm) for model year (my) 2001 saturn l-series vehicles equipped with the L61 2.2L engine and built…
On may 22, 2008, theoffice of defects investigation (odi) was petitioned by the north carolina consumers council (nccc) to broaden the scope of safety recall 07v-519, which was conducted by general motors corporation (gm) for model year (my) 2001 saturn l-series vehicles equipped with the L61 2.2L engine and built during a 4-month period from november 2000 through february 2001 (dp08-002). On october 16, 2008, odi granted dp08-002 and opened pe08-061 to investigate timing chain failures resulting in engine stall while driving (swd) in the saturn l-series vehicles equipped with L61 engines and that used the same design timing chain and timing chain lubrication system as the recalled vehicles.a redesigned timing chain and lubrication system were implemented late in my 2002 production (may 1, 2002).hence, the subject vehicles for this investigation are all my 2000 through 2002 saturn l-series vehicles equipped with 2.2L L61 engines and built prior to may 2002 that were not included in recall 07v-519. In this investigation, odi analyzed updated complaint and warranty claims data for timing chain failures resulting in incidents of engine stall while driving, which comprise slightly over half of all timing chain failures occurring in the subject vehicle population.odi's analysis of complaint and warranty data shows that vehicles produced with the subject timing chain and lubrication system experienced elevated failure rates when compared with the my 2002 through 2003 vehicles using the revised components.however, the analysis also showed that the my 2001 saturn l-series vehicles recalled in 07v-518 experienced a significantly higher rate of timing chain failures than the subject vehicles.the complaint rate for timing chain failures resulting in swd was approximately 5 times higher for the recalled vehicles,19.2 incidents per thousand vehicles (iptv), than for the subject vehicles, 3.7 iptv.the warranty claims rate for chain failures resulting in swd was over 3 times higher for the recalled vehicles, 2.4 percent, than for the subject vehicles, 0.7 percent.the complaint and warranty rates for the subject vehicles were similar to rates recorded in other recently closed investigations for conditions that could result in swd with no engine re-start, ea07-015 and ea07-018.analysis of all complaints, field reports and warranty claims found no allegations of crashes or injuries associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicles after approximately 7 to 9 years in service. Odi's analysis of the stalling incidents that have resulted from timing chain failures in the subject vehicles found that they can occur at any speed and almost always result in a no restart condition.these are generally considered to be factors that increase the severity of stalling incidents.however, analysis of swd failure rates in the subject vehicles show that they have occurred at much lower rates than were observed in the recalled population.in addition, the swd complaint and warranty rates for the subject vehicles are similar to rates observed in prior investigations involving similar categories of engine stall consequences that were closed with no action.further investigation of this matter would not be an efficient allocation of agency resources.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will continue to monitor complaints and other information relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles and take further action if warranted.
- Timing chain failure-stall
On june 6, 2006, odi opened an investigation of timing chain failure resulting in engine stall while driving with no restart in approximately 20,514 model year (my) 2001 saturn l-series vehicles equipped with 2.2L engines (L61) built from november 2000 through february 2001 (ea06-009).the vehicles built during those…
On june 6, 2006, odi opened an investigation of timing chain failure resulting in engine stall while driving with no restart in approximately 20,514 model year (my) 2001 saturn l-series vehicles equipped with 2.2L engines (L61) built from november 2000 through february 2001 (ea06-009).the vehicles built during those months exhibited higher failure rates than similarly equipped vehicles built before and after.gm introduced a new timing chain design in production in may 2002.odi closed its investigation after gm initiated a safety recall on november 7, 2007 (recall 07v-519). On may 22, 2008, the north carolina consumers council (nccc) submitted a defect petition to odi requesting the expansion of recall 07v-519 to include all my 1999 through 2003 saturn l-series vehicles with 2.2L engines using the same timing chain design as the recalled population.the petition states that the nccc continues to receive complaints from consumers that have had a timing chain fail in vehicles built outside the production range covered by the recall.the petition also notes that odi has continued to receive complaints.since the closing of ea06-009 odi has received 80 new complaints from consumers who had a timing chain fail in a my 2000 through 2002 saturn l-series with the 2.2L engine that were not covered by recall 07v-519 and were built prior to the timing belt change in may 2002.the complaints describe the same failure mode as the recalled population where the timing chain can break suddenly and without warning, resulting in engine damage and loss of motive power.the defect petition has been granted. A preliminary evaluation (pe08-061) has been opened.
- Timing chain failure - stall
In a november 7, 2007 letter, general motors (gm) notified odi that it had determined that a safety defect existed in certain model year (my) 2001 saturn l-series vehicles equipped with the 2.2L 4-cylinder (L61) engine built from november 2000 through february 2001.the defect could result in engine stall while driving…
In a november 7, 2007 letter, general motors (gm) notified odi that it had determined that a safety defect existed in certain model year (my) 2001 saturn l-series vehicles equipped with the 2.2L 4-cylinder (L61) engine built from november 2000 through february 2001.the defect could result in engine stall while driving with no restart. Gm will recall (07v-519) the vehicles to replace the timing chains with redesigned parts. During this engineering analysis gm and odi contacted saturn owners that had warranty work performed related to timing chain replacements or repairs in order to determine certain safety consequences associated with timing chain failure.based on analysis of warranty claim verbatim text for indications of stall while driving (swd) and the results from a survey of warranty claims with ambiguous text, gm estimated that 55% of all timing chain warranty repairs involved swd incidents.odi's analysis estimated approximately 76% of warranty repairs may have involved a swd.the surveys were also used to assess the safety consequences of the swd incidents.the calls found that none of the vehicles that experiencing stalls due to timing chain failure could be restarted.inaddition, approximately one-third of the stalls occurred at speeds greater than 40 mph and about 20% indicated that they were not able to get the vehicle out of traffic after the engine died.gm's statistical analyses of failure data estimated stall while driving rates of 1.7% and 5.2% at 3 and 6 years in service.odi's analyses estimated slightly higher rates of 2.3% and 7.0% at 3 and 6 years in service. This engineering analysis IS closed based on gm's recall.
- Timing chain failure
On december 12, 2005, odi received a defect petition (dp05-008) requesting the investigation of timing chain failures that could cause stalling in saturn vehicles equipped with the 2.2L (L61) engine. Odi opened pe06-006 on january 24, 2006, with 24 vehicle owner complaints that alleged a broken timing chain caused the…
On december 12, 2005, odi received a defect petition (dp05-008) requesting the investigation of timing chain failures that could cause stalling in saturn vehicles equipped with the 2.2L (L61) engine. Odi opened pe06-006 on january 24, 2006, with 24 vehicle owner complaints that alleged a broken timing chain caused the vehicle to stop operating.on april 12, 2006, odi received information from general motors (gm) concerning timing chain failures in approximately 412,000 model year (my) 2000 through 2003 saturn l-series and ion vehicles with 2.2L engines. Gm's response included 1,020 owner complaints and field reports concerning timing chain failure, including 228 that alleged the failure caused the vehicle to stall while driving.gm also provided warranty claim data that showed 1,902 subject vehicles receiving timing chain repairs, including 261 which indicated that a stall while driving resulted from the failure.the gm complaints, field reports and warranty claims that did not contain sufficient information to determine that a stall while driving occurred were provided in the category other.gm stated that the majority of these incidents probably occurred while the vehicles were parked since the timing chain IS more likely to break during high chain load situations, such as engine startup.gm's data showed elevated failure rates in approximately 20,500 my 2001 l-series vehicles produced during a four month period from november 2000 through february 2001.over one-third of gm's total complaints and field reports (34.3%) and warranty claims (38.2%) involved l-series vehicles built during the 4-month period, which are only about 5% of subject vehicle production.the timing chain failure rate in the vehicles built during this range IS over 10 times greater than the remaining subject vehicle population. For the my 2001 l-series vehicles built during the 4-month period, the 36-month failure rate for repairs involving stall while driving IS slightly under one percent.however, if the incidents coded as other are added, the 36-month failure rate rises to nearly five percent for those vehicles.odi and gm are continuing to assess the number of complaints and warranty claims coded by gm as other that involve incidents of stall while driving.gm's statistical modeling of the failure data initially concluded that the failure rates were declining with age and mileage for any set of warranty data analyzed (e.g., stall while driving, other or combined).however, subsequent analysis showed that the failure rates are increasing. Based on the high complaint and warranty rates for timing chain failure in the 4-month production period for the my 2001 l-series vehicles, this investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis to further assess the frequency of stall incidents due to timing chain failures in those vehicles (ea06-009).
- Timing chain failure
Analysis undertaken in response to the petition identified 26 complaints alleging timing chain failures in my 2000-2003 saturn l-series vehicle equipped with the 2.2L L4 engine.most complaints of timing chain failure reportedly resulted in a sudden loss of engine power and stalling.odi also noted that certain my…
Analysis undertaken in response to the petition identified 26 complaints alleging timing chain failures in my 2000-2003 saturn l-series vehicle equipped with the 2.2L L4 engine.most complaints of timing chain failure reportedly resulted in a sudden loss of engine power and stalling.odi also noted that certain my 2002-2003 saturn vue and my 2003 saturn ion model vehicles with the 2.2L engine vehiclescovered by a technical service bulletin (03-06-01-017) that addressed timing chain design and service procedure changes, exhibited no complaints of timing chain failure.odi will grant the petition and open a preliminary evaluation to assess the frequency, trend, scope and safety consequences associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicles.refer to pe06-006.
- Inoperative tail lamps
General motors has decided that a safety related defect exists on certain model saturn sedans and wagons.the plastic housing in the rear tail lamp assembly can become distorted if the brake lamps remain on for an extended time.this can cause (1) an intermittently inoperative brake/tail lamp bulb or (2) a short circuit…
General motors has decided that a safety related defect exists on certain model saturn sedans and wagons.the plastic housing in the rear tail lamp assembly can become distorted if the brake lamps remain on for an extended time.this can cause (1) an intermittently inoperative brake/tail lamp bulb or (2) a short circuit that opens a fuse causing inoperative brake or tail lamps (including the center high-mounted stop lamp).gm will conduct a safety recall on an expanded scope of saturn vehicles to install a reinforcing socket adapter (and corresponding nw socket) to the back of the existing lamp assembly.general motors will recall 291,652 my 2000-2002 saturn LS sedans and my 2000-2004 saturn lw wagons.the recall IS identified by nhtsa number 05v-245.
- Inoperative tail lamps
On january 25, 2005, a safety defect petition was received by the office of defects investigation (odi), requesting an investigation of inoperative tail lamps on my 2000-2002 saturn l-series vehicles.the petitioner alleges a defect in the design and assembly of the tail lamp assembly circuit board and light socket…
On january 25, 2005, a safety defect petition was received by the office of defects investigation (odi), requesting an investigation of inoperative tail lamps on my 2000-2002 saturn l-series vehicles.the petitioner alleges a defect in the design and assembly of the tail lamp assembly circuit board and light socket contact.the petitioner identified 47 vehicle owner questionnaire's (voq's) associated with the alleged defect, and odi concurs that 40 of those voq's satisfy the scope of this investigation.odi has found an additional 10 voq's related to the allegation.odi has granted the petition and opened a preliminary evaluation (pe05-010).
- Headlamps flicker off and on
This pe was opened based on six odi complaints that headlamps flicker off and on, and two odi complaints that the switch IS hot to the touch.the investigation has found no occurrences of headlamps going out.the complaints are due to sporadic dimming (flickering) of the headlamps as a result of variation of the voltage…
This pe was opened based on six odi complaints that headlamps flicker off and on, and two odi complaints that the switch IS hot to the touch.the investigation has found no occurrences of headlamps going out.the complaints are due to sporadic dimming (flickering) of the headlamps as a result of variation of the voltage to the headlamps.gm has shown that a 1.5 -2.0 voltage drop occurs when other electrical devices are activated, however at no time do the headlamps turn completely off.with respect to allegations that the headlamp switch IS hot to the touch, gm reports that the ambient temperature of the switch IS 35 degrees c which IS not hot enough to burn a finger or hand.in may 2001, gm modified the headlamp switch crimping operation to eliminate the occurrence of hot switches.odi evaluated the complaints and warranty returns and found no evidence of melting or burning. A safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10233330This bulletin provides an updated repair procedure to correct a customer concern of a musty odor from A/C system, most noticeable at vehicle start-up.
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10227056This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10224820This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10222796This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10214869This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10209980This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10209921This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10190934Underbody Component Corrosion The following information may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers. Some customers may comment that one or more of their vehicle's underbody components are showing some form of corrosion. This corrosion may be red in appearance (rust) if the component is steel, forged iron or cast iron. This corrosion may also be grey or white in color if the component is constructed of an aluminum alloy.
- 10190933Underbody Component Corrosion The following information may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers. Some customers may comment that one or more of their vehicle's underbody components are showing some form of corrosion. This corrosion may be red in appearance (rust) if the component is steel, forged iron or cast iron. This corrosion may also be grey or white in color if the component is constructed of an aluminum alloy.
- 10190932Refinishing Aluminum Wheels This bulletin updates General Motor's position on refinishing aluminum wheels. GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening o re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel's coatings, using recommended procedures, is allowed. Evaluating Damage In evaluating damage, it is the GM Dealer's responsibility to inspect the wheel for corrosion, scrapes, gouges, etc. The Dealer must insure that such damage is not deeper than what can be sanded or polished off. The wheel must be inspected for cracks. If cracks are found, discard the wheel. Any wheels with bent rim flanges must not be repaired or refinished. Wheels that have been refinished by an outside company must be returned to the same vehicle. The Dealer must record the wheel ID stamp or the cast date on the wheel in order to assure this requirement. Refer to Refinisher's Responsibility Outside Company later in this bulletin.
- 10190931Refinishing Aluminum Wheels This bulletin updates General Motor's position on refinishing aluminum wheels. GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening o re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel's coatings, using recommended procedures, is allowed. Evaluating Damage In evaluating damage, it is the GM Dealer's responsibility to inspect the wheel for corrosion, scrapes, gouges, etc. The Dealer must insure that such damage is not deeper than what can be sanded or polished off. The wheel must be inspected for cracks. If cracks are found, discard the wheel. Any wheels with bent rim flanges must not be repaired or refinished. Wheels that have been refinished by an outside company must be returned to the same vehicle. The Dealer must record the wheel ID stamp or the cast date on the wheel in order to assure this requirement. Refer to Refinisher's Responsibility Outside Company later in this bulletin.
- 10190512OnStar Voice Fallback Number Update Some customers may have received a letter from OnStar stating that "We recently tried to provide a software update to the OnStar hardware in your vehicle. However, your system could not be updated remotely. As a result, some of your OnStar system functions may not be working as expected." The customer is further instructed in this letter to "Please contact your dealer or any dealer near you as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for this no-cost software update. Your dealer will reprogram your OnStar module with an update. This is for vehicles that have previously received the Canada upgrade as described in Service Bulletin #15-08-44-001F."
- 10176607This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10141360This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include “Vibration” “Business Associate Code” and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10123211This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a loud tick or rattle noise under the hood at all operating conditions. Technician will need to check the lower and oil pressure to the upper end oil pressure. Technician will need to inspect the oil feed orifice in the cylinder head. Technician will clean out and debris found in the orifice.
- 10118256This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician on the programming and activation of the OnStar system. For many 2008 and prior model year GM vehicles, the programming is performed using the Tech 2 and the activation is initiated by a Service Programming System. For the 2010 and UP model year vehicles, the OnStar set-up procedure and OnStar Activation request have been combined into a single programming event called OnStar Set-up and Activation in Service Programming System.
- 10118233This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about installing General Motors Accessory pats. Technician can check Service Information for some accessories. Technician can also contact Partect for assistance. Technician can also contact Techline Customer Support Center for programming issues.
- 10113614This informational bulletin provides information to assist dealership personnel with the identification of vehicle headlamp, tail lamp, license lamp or fog/driving lamp damage that are not considered warrantable.
- 10112299This informational bulletin provides information on Part Restriction and Ordering Process Information for OnStar Vehicle Communication Interface Modules (VCIM) (GMNA Only)
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