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Engine coolingPart report

2000 Saturn LS Engine cooling Problems

Complaints
140about this part
Share
37%of 382 total for the year
Median mileage
84,513miles
Trend
StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.

NHTSA recorded 140 complaints about the engine cooling of the 2000 Saturn LS, 37% of the 382 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 84,513 miles. 1 a fire, according to the filers.

Example complaints

Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.

“Timing chain on my 2000 Saturn ls1 broke while traveling at 50 MPH. Car glided to a controlled stop. Estimated repair cost $2800 due to bent valves as a result of the timing chain. It is my understanding that nccc has previously requested NHTSA to expand recall to include earlier model years on this known Saturn defect. Is there a status update?”

NHTSA complaint #10258180, filed 2009-02, 85,000 miles

“My mechanic gave me information about a recall that is being done on 2000 and up saturns on the timing chain, however Saturn has yet to accept that as a recall. I spoke with someone from NHTSA and they directed me to Saturn who again directed me back here to file a complaint. I would like to know if this is going to be recalled.”

NHTSA complaint #10250537, filed 2008-12, 159,263 miles

“I was driving on the highway when I suddenly lost all power with no warning. I am told by the dealership that the timing chain was broken. I now need to replace the engine - at a cost close to what the car is worth. I see that the 2001 cars have this same problem and were subject to recall. Why not the 2000?”

NHTSA complaint #10282021, filed 2009-08, 107,000 miles

“Timing chain broke on 2000 Saturn l200 causing bent rods and engine failure. Saturn estimates cost of repairs to be $2000-3000. I have been reading of the current NHTSA investigation of 1999-2003 saturns and the high occurrence of timing chain failures. I do hope something can be done for Saturn to recall affected vehicles.”

NHTSA complaint #10235415, filed 2008-07, 140,000 miles

“I have been informed by my reliable, caring mechanic that my timing chain is about to go out and not to drive any distances or it could be dangerous. I have taken proper care of my car with regular oil changes. This part should last the lifetime of my car. I cannot afford to fix it and fear the danger of driving it.”

NHTSA complaint #10233059, filed 2008-07, 93,000 miles

Related service bulletins

Engine cooling: other model years

YearComplaintsShare of year
200220041%
200130052%
200014037%

Other parts of the 2000 Saturn LS

Electrical system
63 complaintsExterior lighting
62 complaintsSteering
35 complaintsBody and structure
28 complaintsSuspension
28 complaintsBrakes
25 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
25 complaintsTires
20 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
14 complaintsOther or unknown
11 complaintsEngine
10 complaintsFuel system
10 complaints

← All problems reported for the 2000 Saturn LS

About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.

To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology