Door Latch problems of the 1996 Saturn SL2

Beginning in 2002 the rear doors on 1996 Saturn Sl2 began opening spontaneously while driving, first the passenger side, then the driver side. They would not relatch. We used bunji cords and then finally rope through partially open windows to keep them from flying open at speed. Repeated open and shutting and playing with mechanism finally got them to latch and keeping them locked seemed to help. Recently the door on passenger side was accidentally opened and would not latch again. Same thing on drivers side. Although we got them latched and locked again, no passenger or cargo is safe in the back seat if those doors are unlocked or sometimes even when locked.

On 7/20/00, 9/21/00, 8/14/01, and 7/26/02, the doors on this vehicle did not close and secure. While driving, the doors must be tied shut with rope to secure them. Very dangerous as one incident, the left rear door opened while vehicle was moving. Passengers could fall out of the vehicle causing death or serious injury!! Saturn states they have never seen this problem. Current incident of 7/26/02 will be brought to dealer's attention. Saturn of danbury, CT also performed work on vehicle for same problem ( 8/14/2001). At this time, both rear doors had assembly and door handles replaced. The most recent incident on 7/26/2002, the passenger right-front door would not secure. Passenger must ride in rear seat. Vehicle is garaged year round and maintained by Saturn dealerships in stamford and danbury, CT.

While drving at various speeds, the rear doors would swing open for no reason. Would have locks (child proof also) on. The lock, sometimes, fails to keep the door locked. Had notified the manufacturer for parts. Was informed there was no problem with the door locks.