2002 Saturn SC Steering Problems
- Complaints
- 3about this part
- Share
- 8%of 38 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 5,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 3 complaints about the steering of the 2002 Saturn SC, 8% of the 38 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 5,000 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Almost from the start the steering column would lock up trying to start the car. Front and back lights have water inside, brakes have never worked right going all the way to floor with no air in lines. Sunroof also quit. Front driver door metal cracks when opening. Engine also looking like trouble.”
NHTSA complaint #10575621, filed 2014-03, 1,200 miles“The contact owns a 2002 Saturn SC. While the vehicle was parked in a lot, the contact had to make numerous attempts and exert force to unlock the steering wheel. An independent mechanic replaced the ignition module and coil spring. The manufacturer was notified. The approximate failure mileage was 5,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10607790, filed 2014-07, 5,000 miles“The contact owns a 2002 Saturn sc1. The contact stated that when inserting the key into the ignition, the steering column would suddenly lock. She tried to rock the steering wheel back and forth but it would not unlock. The dealer was contacted and they advised her that the cylinder and the housing would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and they advised her that there were no recalls for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10400031, filed 2011-05, 80,000 milesSteering: other model years
Other parts of the 2002 Saturn SC
12 complaintsAir bags
6 complaintsBrakes
4 complaintsEngine cooling
4 complaintsOther or unknown
3 complaintsExterior lighting
2 complaintsBody and structure
2 complaintsSuspension
2 complaintsEngine
1 complaintsFuel system
1 complaintsSeat belts
1 complaintsSeats
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2002 Saturn SC
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