Table 1 shows two common power train related problems of the 1999 Saturn SC1.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Power Train problems | |
| Manual Transmission problems |
Today I went to put my 1999 5 speed Saturn Sc1 into reverse. When I did, I felt a pop and was stuck in reverse. After removing the console, we found that the plastic bushing holding the gearshift rod to the cable had snapped. (luckily I was in a parking lot when this occurred). This could've been a dangerous situation. Saturn refuses to sell the bushing by itself and will only sell it as a part of a $250 gearshift cable kit, even though the bushing is the only broken part. The service/parts employee acknowledged that this is a common problem, and if the bushing were made of metal and not plastic it probably wouldn't have broken. We temporarily wired the rod to the cable to get home, but do not feel safe driving the car until it is permanently fixed. It is a rip-off that Saturn will not sell the replacement part for a reasonable price.
On December 22, 2002, I discovered a leak from my car. I needed someone to look at the car immediately just to have an idea of how serious the leak was. At 7 am the following morning I called highwood auto which is very close to me and someone came and towed the car to the shop. They later called to say it was a transmission leak and I should call Saturn. Upon of explaining my situation to Saturn of paramus they told me my warranty was expired and suggested I trade in the car for a new one. I live in an area where I need a car at all times and so I told highwood auto to investigate the leak further. They took the car apart and found that the transmission has a hole. I called Saturn corporation and they told me that that was unusual and that they could assist me, but only if a Saturn technician looks at the car. Saturn of paramus said they would have to have the car taken to them intact. This was not possible, so I went ahead and instructed highwood auto to fix my car, as I live in an area where I need one.