1996 Saturn SL Engine Problems
- Complaints
- 1about this part
- Share
- 0%of 287 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 103,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 1 complaints about the engine of the 1996 Saturn SL, 0% of the 287 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 103,000 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.
“I noticed that the temperature gauge would go 3/4 towards the red. If I am stopping at a light, the temperature gauge keep going 3/4 towards the red, then goes back very slowly to the middle. I have been informed that I would need to replace my gasket. This would cost approximately $1,200.”
NHTSA complaint #10658749, filed 2014-11, 103,000 milesEngine: other model years
Other parts of the 1996 Saturn SL
63 complaintsBrakes
44 complaintsElectrical system
40 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
37 complaintsSteering
20 complaintsAir bags
18 complaintsVehicle speed control
17 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
16 complaintsSeats
15 complaintsTires
13 complaintsBody and structure
12 complaintsFuel system
8 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1996 Saturn SL
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