One problem related to transmission not go into gear has been reported for the 1997 Saturn SL2. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Ongoing probem with transmission not changing gears properly on any speed, and slow responding from a stop position/take off, hesitation. Also, brake pedal would intermittently go to the floor before vehicle stopped. Dealer notified on three occasions, and was informed that nothing could be found consumer is concerned that this vehicle is unsafe to operate, and will be trading it in within a few mont asking NHTSA to look into this matter before passing it on .