2001 Saturn SL Brakes Problems
- Complaints
- 13about this part
- Share
- 12%of 111 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 55,153miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 13 complaints about the brakes of the 2001 Saturn SL, 12% of the 111 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 55,153 miles. 1 of these say a crash was involved, according to the filers.
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.
“The vehicle brake rotor warp several times which caused vibration while braking. The dealer replaced the rotors. When the vehicle was moved from a stop the vehicle jerked forward. The vehicle also acts as if it want to stall when sitting idle. The dealer was unable to duplicate either concern. The radio light was inoperative therefore the dealer replaced the radio.”
NHTSA complaint #10025025, filed 2003-07, 55,153 miles“While accelerating from a light up to ~20mph there was the smell of brake fluid/rubber burning. When traffic slowed again brakes had no response even when press all the way to the floor. Car was stopped in time to avoid accident by application of emergency brake and placing the car in neutral. Pumping the brakes failed to regain pressure though after driving to the side of the road with ebrake and restarting car a hard pump of the brakes had some resistance. Further cautious driving and pressure rebuilt. After inspection at the shop no explanation for the event could be found.”
NHTSA complaint #10616483, filed 2014-07, 94,000 miles“Driving down a two house dead end street traveling about 20 miles per hour, when the drivers side rear wheel cilinder broke and all ability to stop was lost. After replacing the wheel cilinder, it was also realized that the passenger side brake line to the rear brake was missing several washers and then caused the brake line to leak. Two weeks later the master cilinder for the brakes also failed all before I ever hadto replace any of the brake pads or shoes.”
NHTSA complaint #10075129, filed 2004-06, 32,000 miles“The consumer stated the brake pads wear prematurely. The part has been replaced five times within one year. The cause has not been determined. Please provide additional information.”
NHTSA complaint #10108875, filed 2005-01, 76,885 miles“When applying brakes vehicle will shutter and vibrate. Rotors are prematurely warping. Took to dealer to replace brake pads and rotors but problem still exists. Dealer replaced and turned rotors once, stating there was no mechanical problem found.”
NHTSA complaint #8008342, filed 2002-04Related service bulletins
- 10111927Feb 12, 2014This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Service Engine Soon Malfunction Indicator Lamp. Technician may find…
Brakes: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2002 | 10 | 8% |
| 2001 | 13 | 12% |
| 2000 | 15 | 10% |
| 1999 | 34 | 19% |
| 1998 | 20 | 12% |
| 1997 | 24 | 11% |
| 1996 | 44 | 15% |
| 1995 | 56 | 16% |
| 1994 | 45 | 16% |
| 1993 | 36 | 21% |
| 1992 | 19 | 15% |
| 1991 | 2 | 7% |
Other parts of the 2001 Saturn SL
29 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
20 complaintsEngine cooling
18 complaintsAir bags
13 complaintsSeats
6 complaintsOther or unknown
4 complaintsBody and structure
4 complaintsTires
4 complaintsExterior lighting
3 complaintsFuel system
3 complaintsSteering
3 complaintsVehicle speed control
3 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2001 Saturn SL
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 29, 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