One problem related to transmission failure has been reported for the 2000 Saturn LS. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Transmission failure/replacement at 50,000 odometer reading on 2000 Saturn lw2, engine l81 3. 0 liter v-6, VIN 1g8jw82riyy666790. . . . . On October 6, 2003 I was advised by the service manager of Saturn of woodbridge (virginia) that. My 2000 Saturn lw2 needed a new transmission at a cost of $3,800. The vehicle had just undergone the 51,000 scheduled maintenance. The automatic transmission was replaced on October 9, 2003 at a cost to me of $1,500. It is my considered opinion that an automobile transmission is not supposed to fail without explained/anticipated reason at such low mileage. Purchased new by me on may 27, 2000, every scheduled 3000 mile maintainance was completed on schedule. From April to October 2003 the service-engine-light illuminated several times but the service section at the dealership stated that nothing registered on the computer. The problem was "fixed" by re-setting the computer. On October 3, 2003 the computer indicated "code p1811" which led the technician to a bulletin numbered 02-t-84. What is this bulletin? is it "2002-transmission-84th bulletin"? when I complained, Saturn volunteered to absorb all costs but $1,500. Saturn installed a rebuilt transmission on October 9, 2003 and kept my original (failed) transmission for return to Saturn for rebuilding. Did Saturn know that the transmission had a propensity to fail? did Saturn really absorb part of what was claimed to be a $3,800 (rebuilt transmission) replacement cost? I don't think I should have been liable for the failure of the transmission. This report appears to be similar to odi number 10010259 described March 8, 2003 regarding a 2000 l series wagon automatic transmission problem. Supporting documentation is available.