2002 Saturn SC
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2002 Saturn SC. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
38 complaints7 involved a crash2 involved a fire9 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags
Front end accident. Neither air bag deployed. Car was in motion, went through a rail over a embankment and down the hill into the lake.
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
TL* the contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. The contact stated that the key fell out of the ignition switch while driving. At times, the contact had difficulty placing the key in and out of the ignition switch. The ignition switch was repaired three times. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.
- Electrical system
Car has had issues with the starter over the years, requiring countless replacements before the recommended replacement dates. recently, a starter lasted only 6 months before failing. when a mechanic looked at the starter, he said that there IS probably something wrong with the ignition causing…
Car has had issues with the starter over the years, requiring countless replacements before the recommended replacement dates. recently, a starter lasted only 6 months before failing. when a mechanic looked at the starter, he said that there IS probably something wrong with the ignition causing the starter to continuously run while the engine IS on. this resulted in the starter completely burning up on the inside. smoke was visible from this starter. the key also slips out of the ignition in any position, including when the engine IS on and car IS moving. there IS a recall from gm affecting saturn ignition switches and ignition cylinders, but it does not include 2002 saturns even though the problem IS the same.
- Electrical system › Ignition
I contacted gm's customer service regarding my ignition switch which IS stuck on accessory and has been draining my battery. My car was a year before the recalled ignition switches in other saturn but after significant research it appeared to be similar issues that the majority of the recalls had.…
I contacted gm's customer service regarding my ignition switch which IS stuck on accessory and has been draining my battery. My car was a year before the recalled ignition switches in other saturn but after significant research it appeared to be similar issues that the majority of the recalls had. They referred me to a chevy dealership for a quote and said that they would determine if it would be covered. When I arrived the dealership said they had seen many of these issues but gm always refused to cover and that I should call them to get a case number. After spending 45 minutes on the phone with a representative to determine if I was eligible I was then passed to another representative who told me that because the ignition switch did not turn while driving, it was my problem because my car IS over 10 years old and parasitic drains were not their remit. I asked if these were in the same batch as the recalled switches because they should take responsibility for all faulty switches within that time frame and they told me to file a complaint with nhtsa. I reached out to their digital customer service reps who were able to issue me a case number and said that someone would call me within 24 hours and no one called. I just want to make sure that 2002 switches are investigated for possible recall issues and I have my case number on file in case anyone actually helps me there. *tr
- Electrical system
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start until after awaiting several hours later. The failure recurred on a separate occasion. Also,the key became extremely difficult to turn in the ignition switch. In addition, the key released independently from…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start until after awaiting several hours later. The failure recurred on a separate occasion. Also,the key became extremely difficult to turn in the ignition switch. In addition, the key released independently from the ignition switch on numerous times. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 134,000.
- Air bags
Passenger airbag deployed while driving through a parking lot at approx. 15 mph. Car went over a speedbump and airbag spontaneously deployed. No passenger was in the seat at the time. vehicle ignition "locks" after key IS removed, sometimes making it very difficult to turn key when starting car again. Key can also be remived while car IS in motion without turning off the ignition. *tr
- Electrical system
Have been having issues with the vehicle turning the ignition as it jams and at times fearful it may not turn next time I try to start it .....but today while waiting at a red light...car running, radio on and interior dash lights on...everything just shut down....the engine continued to run...but…
Have been having issues with the vehicle turning the ignition as it jams and at times fearful it may not turn next time I try to start it .....but today while waiting at a red light...car running, radio on and interior dash lights on...everything just shut down....the engine continued to run...but the rest of the car died...i was very nervous waiting for the light to change .....wondering if it would allow me to even get home....within in 2 minutes the electrical did come back....i only purchased my saturn in feb, as used but did not start seeing these issues until the past 2 months...but have also noticed that this car model IS not on any recall list with others displaying the same issues. *tr
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
TL* the contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. The contact stated that the ignition turned from the on position to the off position on its own. The failure occurred several times. An independent mechanic stated that the ignition switch failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer stated that the vin was excluded from nhtsa campaign number: 14v171000 (electrical system). The failure mileage was 98,000.
- Electrical system › Ignition · Steering › Column
TL* the contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. While the vehicle was parked in a lot, the contact had to make numerous attempts and exert force to unlock the steering wheel. An independent mechanic replaced the ignition module and coil spring. The manufacturer was notified. The approximate failure mileage was 5,000.
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
The keys to the ignition switch have worn down so much that they will not work. I purchased new key blanks, went to the dealer and had them copy the keys. The dealer had to run the keys through the machine twice to cut them properly. The new keys work, but a very great deal of friction IS felt when the key IS inserted or removed. The key drags badly in the ignition switch lock. the ignition switch has worn out. *tr
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. the contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was able to start after numerous attempts. the contact mentioned that the failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who replaced the ignition cylinder and issued new keys.…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. the contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was able to start after numerous attempts. the contact mentioned that the failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who replaced the ignition cylinder and issued new keys. the vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 44,000.
- Engine · Service brakes · Steering · Structure › Body › Door
Almost from the start the steering column would lock up trying to start the car. Front and back lights have water inside, brakes have never worked right going all the way to floor with no air in lines. Sunroof also quit. Front driver door metal cracks when opening. Engine also looking like trouble. *tr
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. The contact stated that when the key was placed in the ignition, the theft system activated and the engine failed to start. The vehicle was taken to a private mechanic where it was diagnosed that the ignition switch needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. The contact stated that when the key was placed in the ignition, the theft system activated and the engine failed to start. The vehicle was taken to a private mechanic where it was diagnosed that the ignition switch needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 89,000 and the current mileage was 91,654. updated 04/30/14 ma updated 06/03/14
- Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2002 saturn SC1. The contact stated that when inserting the key into the ignition, the steering column would suddenly lock. She tried to rock the steering wheel back and forth but it would not unlock. The dealer was contacted and they advised her that the cylinder and the…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 saturn SC1. The contact stated that when inserting the key into the ignition, the steering column would suddenly lock. She tried to rock the steering wheel back and forth but it would not unlock. The dealer was contacted and they advised her that the cylinder and the housing would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and they advised her that there were no recalls for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
- Exterior lighting · Structure
Left head light has a leak or water keeps getting in and burning out the headlight bulbs. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling · Power train › Automatic transmission
2002 saturn SC1 lost engine--oil in coolant at 80,000 miles. the mechanic that disassembled the engine stated that the camshaft journals were worn so bad that the engine could not be re-built. Replaced engine 5 months ago, last week, auto transmission stopped engaging reverse gear. discussed with…
2002 saturn SC1 lost engine--oil in coolant at 80,000 miles. the mechanic that disassembled the engine stated that the camshaft journals were worn so bad that the engine could not be re-built. Replaced engine 5 months ago, last week, auto transmission stopped engaging reverse gear. discussed with local saturn dealer who offered no help. this IS my daughter's car. my car--2002 saturn SC2 had to have an engine overhaul at 46,000 miles due to burned valves in #2 cylinder. extended warranty covered repairs. oil consumption prior to overhaul was excessive (qt every 1000 miles--dealer said normal) my automatic transmission has an intermittent extremely rough downshift, which was reported to saturn dealers 4 times while in warranty. each time, they said they could not duplicate the problem. our family bought the car new, and recommended maintenance has been performed. at this time, I feel that saturn has some well documented problems with both the single cam and twin cam engines, as well as the automatic transmissions. *Tr
- Electrical system › Ignition
After reading several cases of which saturn ignition locking up. So I thought I would give it a shot to file a complaint to see if many a recall will be issued. I really never had any problems with my saturn until a few months ago when I tried to start my car and the key would not turn over. I just…
After reading several cases of which saturn ignition locking up. So I thought I would give it a shot to file a complaint to see if many a recall will be issued. I really never had any problems with my saturn until a few months ago when I tried to start my car and the key would not turn over. I just thought it was something I was doing wrong after this happening everyday I knew something was wrong. Right now I am looking into getting this fixed before I have major problems like I have read with other customers of saturn. Steering wheel locking up while driving or the car not being able to be turned off. Mine car IS not to that point but I know if I let it go it will get to this point. The tumblers are bad in my saturn im not sure how much it will be to fix but there should def be a recall on this matter. Esp if your steering wheel locks up when driving this IS not save for anyone! I drive a 2002 saturn SC1. *Tr
- Air bags
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 saturn SC1. the vehicle was a salvaged vehicle from a certified dealer. while driving 30 mph, the brakes failed and the vehicle crashed into a wall. the air bags failed to deploy. the contact believes it IS a serious safety issue to have non-functioning air bags. the vehicle was destroyed and a police report was filed. the current and failure mileages were 48,000.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 saturn SC1. while driving at any speed, the contact smelled coolant in the cab of the vehicle and noticed smoke coming from the tailpipe. the dealer has not inspected the vehicle. the failure mileage was 60,000 and current mileage was 90,000. updated 02-01-08 *bf updated 02/01/08 *tr
- Fuel system, other
The 2002 saturn SC1 needed an intake manifold at 60, 000 miles because it was placed on wrong side at the factory. The mechanic at the dealership said they got alot of these complaints, should this warrant a recall.*ak
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
At around 75000 miles I pulled into work, put it in park, and all of a sudden my engine started to rev, (increasing without leveling. I immediately turned off the car to stop the increased revving. I tried to turn the car on again , hoping it was a fluke. and it started again. I got it towed to…
At around 75000 miles I pulled into work, put it in park, and all of a sudden my engine started to rev, (increasing without leveling. I immediately turned off the car to stop the increased revving. I tried to turn the car on again , hoping it was a fluke. and it started again. I got it towed to the dealership, and they told me it had a vaccuum leak and had to have the intake gasket replaced. and that it was going to be extensive work to replace it. *ak
- Suspension › Front › Springs › Coil springs
TL*- the contact owns a 2001 saturn SC-2. While slowly moving the vehicle the contact heard a loud clicking sound. the contact noticed a tire was flat because the coil spring punctured the tire. the contact did not know of the dealers diagnosis of the problem. the contact was unaware of the mileage. *Ak
- Engine and engine cooling · Engine and engine cooling › Exhaust system › Manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe
On 2/1/07 my car started running rough, with no ses light coming on. After a couple of weeks the ses light came on and I took the car to the dealer for repairs. A defective intake manifold gasket had caused the rough idle, and the dealer said that if I left go to long enough it could have caused…
On 2/1/07 my car started running rough, with no ses light coming on. After a couple of weeks the ses light came on and I took the car to the dealer for repairs. A defective intake manifold gasket had caused the rough idle, and the dealer said that if I left go to long enough it could have caused the engine to seize up. My car has only 37,315 miles on it and IS garaged when not in use. A new intake manifold gasket was replaced for a cost of $463.44. I do not hot rod this car or abuse it in any fashion, I am 52 years old. If I had ignored the ses light I could have had an accident if the engine would have failed in traffic. *Jb
- Air bags
Dt*: the contact stated while driving 40 mph on a dry highway someone pulled out in front of the vehicle and the contact's vehicle was hit head on. the air bags did not deploy. the passenger side obtained the most damage. there were not any lights illuminated on the dashboard prior to the incident. there were injuries and a police report was filed at the scene.
- Seat belts › Front › Retractor
Seat belt has become torn and frayed, caused by seat belt retraction device. this problem occurs on the 2001-2002 saturn SC1. *nm
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.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 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.
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 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.
- 10233370This service bulletin revision provides a repair procedure to Remove Debris from Evaporator Case, Disinfect evaporator or Apply Cooling coil coating and install blower motor control module to correct a customer concern of A/C Odor at 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.
- 10083900This preliminary information communication advises the technician, if unable to place an onstar call in the ignition on mode after the onstar canada upgrade to contact the gm technical assistance center onstar group for further assistance.
- 10083898This preliminary information communication advises the technician if unable to place an onstar call in the ignition on mode after the onstar canada upgrade, to contact the gm technical assistance center onstar group for further assistance.
- 10083884This preliminary information communication advises the technician on the steps for diagnosing the concern. The vehicle may be unable to connect to onstar using the white, blue or red onstar buttons.
Every Saturn SC model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.