Used 1997 Saturn S-Series Consumer Reviews
Best Ever
This is the third Saturn we have owned. We get super gas mileage, good performance, comfort even for my 6'2" husband. We love this car. It gets regular maintanence. We have had new brakes put on it. I had an accident in it. I was hit by a 4-wheel drive pickup with his back wheel, going 65 MPH and it just took my front bumper. It did not spin me or push me into other traffic. I could have been killed, instead it just took off the impact point. We have 174,780 miles on this car and we are very happy with it. Diana
Get the Extended Warranty!
Lots of problems with my Saturn-so far the following items have been replaced--glad I got the warranty!!! Two window motors sunroof motor transmission (2 times!!)
112K miles and still zipping along
This was my first new car purchase and I have no regrets. The goal was to get a SAFE, economical, dependable vehicle and that is exactly what I got. I consistently get over 30mpg and have had no major breakdowns or repairs. At about 40k miles, we replaced the alternator.This year we replaced the break rotors for the first time ever. Only other expenses are oil changes and preventative maintenance. Only cons are vibration noise, seats do get uncomfortable on long drives (ask my 6'2" husband), and there is a notable decrease in power when you put 4 adults in the car. But, what would you expect for the price?
GREAT CAR! Reliable
We've had since new. It has been a very reliable and great car. Good power for a 4 cylinder with excellent highway mileage and 25-26 mpg mixed driving. Dent resistent side panels are great -- keeps car looking good. Very good sound system. Sits low like a sports car, so access by grandparents is a bit difficult. The only problem has been the seat belts don't fully retract as they should, but that is minor. Overall, it has been a great car. It has 54,100 miles & still runs great.
Pleasantly surprised with used Saturn
After my teen-age daughter wrecked our one remaining family car, I was in desperate need of transportation. A co-worker sold me her Saturn for $800. Our little car takes everybody where they need to go with ease and efficiency. We have made several long distance trips recently and the car has been reliable, fantastic on gas and comfortable for two adults and two elementary school age kids in the back. Despite the fact that the A/C doesn't work, interior is worn and the shift linkage is held together with tie rods I still prefer to drive it over our newly inherited Yaris. Friends who also recently purchased used Saturns are equally pleased. It's a fun car to drive, good recommendation here!
Got hit by a semi and walked away
Have had this car 10 years & have taken care of it. It's served me well. Last week a semi hit me twice, once broadside, on a 45 mph hwy and I walked away with just some bruises -- and the car still drives. Will buy Saturn again.
Excellent Value
We bought this car new nearly 11 years ago. It has exceeded our expectations in many ways. It is simply a reliable, fuel economic vehicle. Very few problems, and we are approaching 188,000 miles, and it still runs well. We also still get about 32 MPG in combined City/Highway driving. The interior space is pretty good for a compact car. It does burn oil, but that is what happens to most cars with so many miles. Our complaints are few: The interior has mostly cheap plastic. It is also a little loud when driving. But these things are hard to avoid for such an inexpensive vehicle.
Great value
Bought this car in 2004 to replace my the same model (2002 edition) which I had put 220,000 miles and decided to upgrade. This car has been excellent in reliability and the body style is much improved (no pop-up headlights anymore) than the previous SC2 years. Overall a great value for anyone who doesn't mind giving up the plush luxury car for a very reliable, fuel- efficient, decent car.
My 2nd Saturn
This has really been a great car. I have had very few problems with it (knock on wood). It's roomy inside, and I like the dash better than the L300 2003's I just looked at. The new ones have the windshield very close to your face. Saturns feel very safe and handle nicely. Their customer service is the best. You'll never meet nicer salesman in a dealership.
Red coupe rules!
Previously owned an SL sedan (1992) which was given to my daughter when I got the coupe.She purchased a 3 door coupe in 1999. This car has needed only routine oil changes, tires etc. until late 2002 when the original battery and exhaust system were replaced by the dealer whose service has always been excellent.I plan to keep the car for another 30000 miles(110,000).