Faults:
The brakes were done shortly before I acquired the vehicle.
Rear brake cylinders were replaced at 220k.
Starter was replaced at 221k.
Alternator was replaced at 223k.
Burns oil, and usually have to put in a quart ever 300 miles.
Will have to replace front driver-side control arm and wheel bearing.
Interior makes some squeaky noises, but they're cheap to begin with. Still in relatively good shape, but rust is developing under the foot panels inside the doors.
"Performance" mode causes the transmission to fluctuate much more aggressively than I'm comfortable with to use it.
Struts and shocks will have to be replaced soon.
A/C does not work, no idea how long it's been out.
General Comments:
I was given this car for free from family, and it's been a bit of a nuisance, but very reliable. Parts are easily found, and it's relatively easy to work on if you've got the aptitude for it.
Performance is lacking. Steeper hills almost require you to go into 3rd or 2nd gear. Does well merging onto most highways, but it leaves much to be desired.
Handling has a "bubbly" feel to it. The suspension will have to be replaced, as bumps cause the car to bounce around a bit at higher speeds.
Road noise is a little loud. After putting in aftermarket speakers, it's hardly an issue any more.
Plenty of room for 4 passengers, nice and roomy, but you take a hit in performance and a bit on gas mileage, with it needing more RPM because of the extra weight.
18th Aug 2019, 23:47
I had a ‘99 Wagon, and my ownership experience was similar to yours. These Saturns make great beaters — seems like they shouldn’t exist now without a pizza sign on the roof. They rattle and creak, and you have to remember to check the oil level, but they will just keep soldiering on otherwise. They were the car GM needed 10 years earlier.