One problem related to brakes failed has been reported for the 2001 Saturn SL. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While accelerating from a light up to ~20mph there was the smell of brake fluid/rubber burning. When traffic Slowed again brakes had no response even when press all the way to the floor. Car was stopped in time to avoid accident by application of emergency brake and placing the car in neutral. Pumping the brakes failed to regain pressure though after driving to the side of the road with ebrake and restarting car a hard pump of the brakes had some resistance. Further cautious driving and pressure rebuilt. After inspection at the shop no explanation for the event could be found.