The 2002 Saturn S-Series represents the final model year for Saturn's pioneering compact car, embodying the brand's "different kind of car company" ethos. Produced from 1991 to 2002, the S-Series was available as a sedan (SL), coupe (SC), and wagon (SW). Key trims included the base SL1/SC1/SW1 and the more powerful SL2/SC2/SW2. New, prices ranged from approximately $12,000 to $18,000. It stood out for its dent-resistant polymer body panels and no-haggle pricing, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking an American-made alternative.
The Good
Key advantages of the 2002 Saturn S-Series include its excellent fuel efficiency, especially with the SOHC engine, and the practical benefit of dent-resistant polymer body panels. It offered decent comfort for daily commuting and represented strong value for money. Emotionally, its unique American origin and "different" approach appealed to buyers seeking individuality, while pragmatically, its low running costs were a significant draw.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2002 Saturn S-Series include prevalent oil consumption, particularly in the SOHC engines, and a propensity for automatic transmission failures. Head gasket issues are also common. Interior plastics can be prone to rattles and cracking, and road noise is often noticeable, indicating a generally dated design and less refined driving experience compared to some rivals.
2002 Saturn S-Series: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 1.9-liter SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) 4-cylinder engine (found in SL1, SC1, SW1 trims)
- 1.9-liter DOHC (Dual Overhead Cam) 4-cylinder engine (found in SL2, SC2, SW2 trims) - Horsepower:
- SOHC: Approximately 100 horsepower
- DOHC: Approximately 124 horsepower - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- SOHC Manual: ~28-32 MPG combined
- SOHC Automatic: ~25-30 MPG combined
- DOHC Manual: ~26-30 MPG combined
- DOHC Automatic: ~24-28 MPG combined
(Note: Actual mileage varies based on driving conditions and maintenance.) - 0-60 mph Times:
- SOHC: Roughly 9.5-10.5 seconds
- DOHC: Roughly 8.0-9.0 seconds - Towing Capacity:
- Generally not recommended for towing. If equipped with a specialized hitch, typically limited to 1,000 lbs, but this is rare and not a strong suit of the vehicle. - Trim-Level Features:
- SL1/SC1/SW1 (Base Trims): Typically included manual windows, manual door locks, AM/FM stereo, steel wheels with hubcaps, and basic cloth upholstery. Air conditioning was often an optional extra.
- SL2/SC2/SW2 (Higher Trims): Offered the more powerful DOHC engine. Standard features usually added power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, cruise control, a cassette/CD player, and often alloy wheels or upgraded wheel covers. The SC2 coupe featured a distinctive third door on the driver's side for easier rear-seat access. These trims provided a more comfortable and feature-rich experience.
2002 Saturn S-Series Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2002 |
| Make | Saturn |
| Model | S-Series |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SPRING HILL |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2351 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 55.00 inches |
| Overall Length | 178.10 inches |
| Overall Width | 66.40 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 102.40 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.9-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 1.9L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Manual 5-Speed |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $10,570 |
| Invoice Price | $10,871 |
| Delivery Charges | $465 |
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What Problems Does the 2002 Saturn S-Series Have?
The 2002 Saturn S-Series, while appreciated for its unique build, did suffer from several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns. Perhaps the most notorious issue is excessive oil consumption, particularly with the 1.9-liter SOHC engine (SL1, SC1, SW1 models). This is often attributed to piston ring design flaws, requiring owners to frequently check and top off engine oil to prevent serious engine damage. Ignoring this can lead to premature engine failure.
Another significant reliability concern involves the automatic transmission. The 4-speed automatic transmissions are known to be prone to premature failure, exhibiting symptoms such as slipping, harsh shifts, or complete loss of gears. This is a common and often expensive repair that can easily exceed the car's value. Manual transmissions generally prove to be far more robust and reliable.
Head gasket failures are also relatively common, especially as the vehicles age, which can lead to overheating and coolant leaks. Owners should also watch for aging engine mounts, which can lead to increased vibration and noise.
Other minor but frequent issues include failures of power window motors, malfunctioning HVAC controls or blower motors, and interior trim pieces that can rattle or crack over time. Due to its age, general wear and tear on suspension components and electrical systems are also to be expected.
Regarding recalls, the 2002 S-Series had a few minor campaigns, mostly related to seat belt components (e.g., buckle corrosion) or specific electrical connectors. A comprehensive check of the vehicle's VIN with NHTSA is always recommended for any used car to identify outstanding recalls. The S-Series was largely spared from the major ignition switch recalls that affected later GM models.
Another significant reliability concern involves the automatic transmission. The 4-speed automatic transmissions are known to be prone to premature failure, exhibiting symptoms such as slipping, harsh shifts, or complete loss of gears. This is a common and often expensive repair that can easily exceed the car's value. Manual transmissions generally prove to be far more robust and reliable.
Head gasket failures are also relatively common, especially as the vehicles age, which can lead to overheating and coolant leaks. Owners should also watch for aging engine mounts, which can lead to increased vibration and noise.
Other minor but frequent issues include failures of power window motors, malfunctioning HVAC controls or blower motors, and interior trim pieces that can rattle or crack over time. Due to its age, general wear and tear on suspension components and electrical systems are also to be expected.
Regarding recalls, the 2002 S-Series had a few minor campaigns, mostly related to seat belt components (e.g., buckle corrosion) or specific electrical connectors. A comprehensive check of the vehicle's VIN with NHTSA is always recommended for any used car to identify outstanding recalls. The S-Series was largely spared from the major ignition switch recalls that affected later GM models.
How long will the 2002 Saturn S-Series last?
Based on owner data, many 2002 Saturn S-Series vehicles, particularly those with diligent maintenance, routinely achieved 150,000 to 200,000 miles, with some well-maintained examples surpassing this. Years of service often stretched to 10-15 years, or more for secondary vehicles. The long-term durability of the S-Series largely depended on managing its known weaknesses. The polymer body panels proved incredibly durable against dents and rust, maintaining a decent exterior appearance. However, the Achilles' heel remained the automatic transmission, which often failed prematurely and became a significant deterrent to continued service. Consistent oil checks and top-offs were crucial to prolonging the life of the engines, especially the SOHC. Suspension components and interior plastics naturally show wear and tear over two decades, impacting overall refinement over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2002 Saturn S-Series featured a relatively spartan array of built-in tech and entertainment, typical for an entry-level compact car of its era.
Entertainment: Standard offerings usually included an AM/FM stereo. Higher trims or optional packages could add a cassette player, a single-CD player, or a combination unit. There were no advanced infotainment screens, Bluetooth connectivity, or USB ports, as these technologies were not common in this segment at the time. Audio controls were basic, typically consisting of simple knobs and buttons.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features, as understood today (e.g., lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control), were non-existent. The S-Series relied on fundamental mechanical systems like power steering and power brakes. There were no integrated navigation systems or parking sensors.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included dual front airbags for the driver and passenger. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an important optional safety feature, particularly on the higher-trim SL2, SC2, and SW2 models. Child safety seat anchors (LATCH system) were also present. The polymer body panels, while known for dent resistance, also contributed to overall structural integrity.
Optional Features: Beyond the ABS and audio upgrades, common optional features included air conditioning (standard on higher trims), power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, and cruise control.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2002 Saturn S-Series generally performed reasonably well in crash tests for its time.
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): It typically received 4 or 5 stars for frontal impact protection (driver and passenger) and 3 or 4 stars for side-impact protection, depending on the specific body style and test year.
- IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): The S-Series earned "Acceptable" or "Marginal" ratings in moderate overlap frontal crash tests. Side-impact tests by IIHS were not as prevalent or comprehensive for vehicles of this age, and by modern standards, its performance would likely be rated lower. These ratings should be considered in the context of early 2000s safety standards, which are less stringent than today's.
Entertainment: Standard offerings usually included an AM/FM stereo. Higher trims or optional packages could add a cassette player, a single-CD player, or a combination unit. There were no advanced infotainment screens, Bluetooth connectivity, or USB ports, as these technologies were not common in this segment at the time. Audio controls were basic, typically consisting of simple knobs and buttons.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features, as understood today (e.g., lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control), were non-existent. The S-Series relied on fundamental mechanical systems like power steering and power brakes. There were no integrated navigation systems or parking sensors.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included dual front airbags for the driver and passenger. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an important optional safety feature, particularly on the higher-trim SL2, SC2, and SW2 models. Child safety seat anchors (LATCH system) were also present. The polymer body panels, while known for dent resistance, also contributed to overall structural integrity.
Optional Features: Beyond the ABS and audio upgrades, common optional features included air conditioning (standard on higher trims), power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, and cruise control.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2002 Saturn S-Series generally performed reasonably well in crash tests for its time.
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): It typically received 4 or 5 stars for frontal impact protection (driver and passenger) and 3 or 4 stars for side-impact protection, depending on the specific body style and test year.
- IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): The S-Series earned "Acceptable" or "Marginal" ratings in moderate overlap frontal crash tests. Side-impact tests by IIHS were not as prevalent or comprehensive for vehicles of this age, and by modern standards, its performance would likely be rated lower. These ratings should be considered in the context of early 2000s safety standards, which are less stringent than today's.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2002 Saturn S-Series Prices and Market Value
When new in 2002, the Saturn S-Series typically ranged from approximately $12,000 for a base SL1 sedan to around $18,000 for a fully-equipped SC2 coupe or SW2 wagon. This positioned it as an affordable compact car.
Today, current used market prices are very low, with most examples trading for under $1,000 to $3,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Many are considered "beater" cars or parts vehicles.
The depreciation insight is profound: the S-Series has experienced massive depreciation, losing virtually all its original value over two decades. Factors severely affecting its resale value include the discontinuation of the Saturn brand, leading to concerns about parts and support; the vehicle's advanced age and high mileage; and its well-known mechanical issues, particularly the automatic transmission and oil consumption. The lack of modern features and safety technology also contributes to its diminished market appeal and minimal resale value.
Today, current used market prices are very low, with most examples trading for under $1,000 to $3,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Many are considered "beater" cars or parts vehicles.
The depreciation insight is profound: the S-Series has experienced massive depreciation, losing virtually all its original value over two decades. Factors severely affecting its resale value include the discontinuation of the Saturn brand, leading to concerns about parts and support; the vehicle's advanced age and high mileage; and its well-known mechanical issues, particularly the automatic transmission and oil consumption. The lack of modern features and safety technology also contributes to its diminished market appeal and minimal resale value.
2002 Saturn S-Series Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2002 Saturn S-Series is generally economical, but with caveats. Insurance costs are typically very low due to its minimal current market value. Fuel efficiency is a strong point, especially for SOHC models, keeping fuel costs down. Routine maintenance is affordable, with widely available and inexpensive parts. However, repair costs can swing wildly. Minor repairs are cheap, but major issues like automatic transmission failure or significant engine work (e.g., head gasket, addressing oil consumption) can easily exceed the car's value, making it uneconomical to repair. Therefore, it's economical for basic transportation if well-maintained and free of major mechanical flaws, particularly avoiding the problematic automatic transmission.
2002 Saturn S-Series Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
12.10 gallons
City Mileage
29 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
40 miles/gallon
2002 Saturn S-Series Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2002 Saturn S-Series Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2002 Saturn S-Series Insurance
Insurance for a 2002 Saturn S-Series is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2002 Saturn S-Series Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2002 Saturn S-Series competed in a crowded compact segment against formidable rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra, and Chevrolet Cavalier.
In terms of performance, the S-Series with its DOHC engine (124 hp) was competitive with base models of the Civic and Corolla, offering decent acceleration for daily driving. However, it generally lacked the refinement and quietness of its Japanese counterparts. The SOHC engine (100 hp) was less inspiring.
Regarding features, the S-Series offered a similar array of basic comfort and convenience options (AC, power accessories, CD player) as its rivals. Its polymer body panels were a unique selling point, offering dent and rust resistance that no competitor matched. However, interior quality and material feel often lagged behind the Civic and Corolla, which generally felt more upscale and durable inside.
Reliability is where the S-Series often fell short, especially compared to the segment leaders. While its engines, if properly maintained and regularly topped off with oil, could be durable, the widespread issues with automatic transmission failure and head gasket problems significantly hampered its long-term reliability. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla were renowned for their bulletproof reliability, particularly their transmissions, making them superior choices for trouble-free ownership. The Ford Focus and Nissan Sentra offered competitive reliability, generally surpassing the Saturn's automatic transmission woes. The Chevy Cavalier often shared similar, if not more, reliability concerns with the Saturn.
In terms of price, the S-Series was competitively priced new, often slightly undercutting its Japanese rivals. On the used market today, the S-Series is significantly cheaper than a comparable Civic or Corolla, primarily due to the brand's discontinuation and its known mechanical vulnerabilities.
Recommended Alternatives:
In terms of performance, the S-Series with its DOHC engine (124 hp) was competitive with base models of the Civic and Corolla, offering decent acceleration for daily driving. However, it generally lacked the refinement and quietness of its Japanese counterparts. The SOHC engine (100 hp) was less inspiring.
Regarding features, the S-Series offered a similar array of basic comfort and convenience options (AC, power accessories, CD player) as its rivals. Its polymer body panels were a unique selling point, offering dent and rust resistance that no competitor matched. However, interior quality and material feel often lagged behind the Civic and Corolla, which generally felt more upscale and durable inside.
Reliability is where the S-Series often fell short, especially compared to the segment leaders. While its engines, if properly maintained and regularly topped off with oil, could be durable, the widespread issues with automatic transmission failure and head gasket problems significantly hampered its long-term reliability. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla were renowned for their bulletproof reliability, particularly their transmissions, making them superior choices for trouble-free ownership. The Ford Focus and Nissan Sentra offered competitive reliability, generally surpassing the Saturn's automatic transmission woes. The Chevy Cavalier often shared similar, if not more, reliability concerns with the Saturn.
In terms of price, the S-Series was competitively priced new, often slightly undercutting its Japanese rivals. On the used market today, the S-Series is significantly cheaper than a comparable Civic or Corolla, primarily due to the brand's discontinuation and its known mechanical vulnerabilities.
Recommended Alternatives:
- For superior reliability and refinement: A used 2002-2005 Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla would be significantly more dependable, albeit at a slightly higher purchase price.
- For similar budget-friendliness with potentially fewer automatic transmission headaches: A manual transmission Ford Focus or Nissan Sentra could be a viable option, offering similar utilitarian value.
Final Verdict: Is the 2002 Saturn S-Series a Good Sedan?
The 2002 Saturn S-Series is ideal for highly budget-conscious drivers, first-time car owners, or students needing extremely affordable and basic transportation. It suits individuals who are mechanically inclined or willing to diligently monitor engine oil levels.
Given its age and the brand's discontinuation, it is absolutely not worth buying new (which isn't an option anyway). As a used vehicle, it can be worth buying, but only under very specific conditions. Seek out models with a manual transmission to avoid the prevalent and costly automatic transmission failures. The higher trims (SL2/SC2/SW2) offer a bit more power and features, making them preferable. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount to check for excessive oil consumption, head gasket issues, and overall mechanical health. If found in good condition with a manual transmission and priced very low (sub-$2,000), it can serve as a dependable, cheap "beater" car for a few more years, especially benefiting from its dent-resistant panels.
Given its age and the brand's discontinuation, it is absolutely not worth buying new (which isn't an option anyway). As a used vehicle, it can be worth buying, but only under very specific conditions. Seek out models with a manual transmission to avoid the prevalent and costly automatic transmission failures. The higher trims (SL2/SC2/SW2) offer a bit more power and features, making them preferable. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount to check for excessive oil consumption, head gasket issues, and overall mechanical health. If found in good condition with a manual transmission and priced very low (sub-$2,000), it can serve as a dependable, cheap "beater" car for a few more years, especially benefiting from its dent-resistant panels.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.