11 problems related to automatic transmission have been reported for the 1998 Saturn SL2. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Vehicle was not running properly. Taken to mechanic who told me that vehicle was 5 quarts low on transmission fluid and vehicle would have stopped running if not taken care of at that time. Although vehicle only had 35000 miles on it transmission, which had defect, had to be rebuilt for $2400+.
Transmision hesitates and jerks before going into any gear. Problem has existed for 3 months. Dealer was notified, and found a faulty transmission valve.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Caution: Saturn automatic transmision may be dangerous if it hesitates and clunks into gear or downshifts inappropriately. Saturn's computer diagnostic system may not detect dangerous transmission control condition. Saturn corp. Policy on paying dealer for diagnostic work for warranty items may discourage dealer from further investigating possibly dangerous conditions.
Consumer was traveling 55mph on wet roads vehicle downshifted into low gear at highway speed. Consumer lost control and crashed into a concrete bridge which guided him to a stop. Twice vehicle was in shop for clunking, and twice with downshifting added. Vehicle in a repair shop to see what damage has been done. The consumer says the dealer should have addressed the symptems of potentially dangerous transmission problem during the 4 service periods. The vehicle was a total loss. The consumer was sekking financial reimbersement for the loss and expenses.
No summary.
The vehicle stalled intermittently while driving. The cam switch was replaced twice, the idle control was adjusted and the throttle was replaced yet the problem recurred. The vehicle lunged forward when the vehicle was shifted in reverse. The transmission was replaced.
While driving 60 mph the transmission went out without any warning. Driver was able to coast to the side of the road safely. The vehicle towed to the dealership where the transmission was replaced.
When traveling 35 mph, going up an incline and vehicle is placed in fourth gear, the vehicle will drop from fourth gear into second and will accelerate. Consumer has contacted the dealer. Dealer states normal operations. Please provide any further details.
The problem in a nutshell is unexpected/unpredictable apparent loss of braking.
Transmission jerking and experiences unwanted surges almost resulting in collisions.