Five problems related to engine have been reported for the 1999 Saturn SL1. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
At about 81200 miles, the low coolant light came on. Upon refilling the reservoir, I noticed that the coolant was discolored. I checked the oil and it was contaminated (milky colored). I took the car to my mechanic and was told the head was cracked. He also informed me that this is a chronic problem with Saturn sohc engines and that I should try to get Saturn to pay for the repair. After doing my own research, I found this to be true. I called Saturn, at spring hill and was told that "since I hadn't taken the car back to Saturn for scheduled maintenance, I probably would have to come out of pocket, for repairs. " I do all my pm's and have receipts and mileage records to prove it. I was told, when I bought this car that "that would be fine. " all Saturn has done so far, is give me a case number (1-5883104). My problem is, I don't have the money to fix this problem. I don't want to drive the car to Saturn and compound the problem, yet Saturn won't pay for a tow and from what I have read, regarding this exact same problem, with other Saturn owners, once they have your car, you have to fight tooth and nail to get them to pay for the job and in some cases, they simply wont. I realize that my car is out of warranty, but this seems like this is something Saturn has known about for several years and did nothing to correct it.
The cylinder head cracked by #5 cylinder by cam journal on a 1999 Saturn sl-1 4 door sedan with 54,950 miles. Dealer cost was $2,100. 00, Saturn covered $700. 00. Dealer claimed this was an isolated incident yet had the replacement head assembly in stock.
One of the engine mounts had to be replaced at 50587 miles.
Crack in head. Can't drive. Oe defect.
Timing chain broke causing extensive damage to engine.