Three problems related to steering tie rod assembly have been reported for the 2001 Saturn LS. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
2001 Saturn 200l key would not turn in engine, steering shook vigorously while driving. While driving 65 mph, on the day the vehicle was purchased, the vehicle's steering wheel began to vibrate and pull to the right. There was also a noise coming from the rear of the vehicle on the passenger side. The consumer assumer the problem would resolve itself but it didn't. Two weeks later the consumer called the dealer. The vehicle wa taken tot he dealer who determined that the problem was wheel balancing. The adjustment were made and the vehicle was returned tot he consumer. About a month later the vehicle would not start intermittently. The consumer called the dealer who explained that this was a safety feature. Several months went by and the problem continued to occur. Someone suggested tot he consumer that she needed a new starter. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but they were unable to duplicate the problem. The vehicle was returned to the consumer . Once again the vehicle began to not start. The dealer finally replaced the starter. The vehicle tie rod eventually had to be replaced. That was the noise the consumer heard when she first purchased the vehicle. On day while driving the vehicle sudden lost all power. The vehicle was towed to a service dealer who determined that the vehicle's timing chain had broken. None of these failures were covered by the vehicle extended warranty. The consumer contacted yhe manufacturer but they provided no assistance.
More steering/ suspension problems. Steering still had vibration and noise problems even after dealer performed rear suspension modification, replaced rear struts, front sway bar links, all four tires, rear control arm bushings (redesigned), preload spring *(redesigned) and tie rods. This time diagnosed as failed front control arm bushings and failed front left wheel bearing/ hub assembly.
Tie rod end- drivers side. Lso have problem with left brake light- replaced bulb and keeps going out ignition switch locked up now engine and coil pack blown-- engine oil pressure light never came on to alert of impending problem.