Two problems related to loud engine noise have been reported for the 2000 Saturn LS. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I arrived at my destination, turned off the engine, ran inside for no more than 5 mins and when I came back out the engine was unable to turn over and made horrible noises when attempting to start. I called a tow truck to come pick it up to bring it back to their shop to check it out. When I arrive at the shop today they tell me that the timing chain has broken and bent the valves. The whole engine now needs to be replaced. They tell me it is $3600 minimum to replace and this is with a used engine for $2400+ just for his used engine. All in all, I'm very glad the vehicle wasn't moving when this happened but still very frustrated since this does not seem to be an uncommon thing with the Saturn l-series.
The contact owns a 2000 Saturn Ls1. While driving 20 mph, the engine made a loud noise, the check engine light illuminated, and the vehicle completely lost power. The vehicle cruised to a stop and triple a was called to tow it to the dealer. The contact was informed that the timing chain failed and would cost $2,700 to replace. The failure and current mileages were 121,000.