Faults:
I have a 2001 L300 V6.
In December 2006, on my way home from work at 2am, I noticed the overheating light on, and before I could get off the road, I heard a popping sound under the hood, followed by a sound of running water.
I towed it to the Saturn dealer, and they informed me of a blown head gasket, oil cooler, oil cooler rings, etc. The total cost was $2100.00.
After about 3 weeks, the car starts to make a terrible noise and the service engine wrench light comes on. I take it back, and the timing and drive belt both are cracking, and the tensioner and pulleys need to be replaced. Total cost $1200.00.
When I picked it up yesterday, it sounded great. Could not even hear it running when cranked.
On the way home, I stopped at a red light, and when I accelerated, it shifted hard and the service light with the wrench came on?? I've already spent $3300.00 in 2 months on this car, what could possibly be wrong now?
After I got home and started the car again, the light was off. It will come on occasionally when accelerating and jerking a little. Is there any way to be heard or get the word out about these cars? They have way too many issues.
I have also experienced the uneven tire wear many have mentioned about this car.
15th Feb 2007, 07:13
It's well known that if you have coolant leak onto your timing belt (usually from a leaking oil cooler seal or head gasket), the coolant will degrade the timing belt material. The techs ABSOLUTELY should have replaced the belt, tensioner, and water pump following a blown head gasket.