There are no safety recalls for the 2002 Saturn SC, but owners have filed 38 complaints with NHTSA.
2002 Saturn SC problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Electrical System | 12 | |
| Air Bags | 6 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 5 | |
| Unknown or Other | 3 | |
| Steering | 3 | |
| Suspension | 2 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 2 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 2 | |
| Structure | 2 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
| Service Brakes, Air | 1 | |
| Seats | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Electrical System › Ignition — 3
- Electrical System › Ignition › Switch — 3
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 2
- Suspension › Front › Stabilizer Bar — 1
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components — 1
- Service Brakes, Air › Disc › Rotor — 1
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 65,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2002 Saturn SC complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Air Bags · at 90,000 miles · reported Mar 21, 2017
Front end accident. Neither air bag deployed. Car was in motion, went through a rail over a embankment and down the hill into the lake.
Electrical System · reported Oct 27, 2016
The contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. The contact stated that the key fell out of the ignition switch while driving. At times, the contact had difficulty placing the key in and out of the ignition switch. The ignition switch was repaired three times. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.
Electrical System · at 118,000 miles · reported Nov 15, 2015
Car has had issues with the starter over the years, requiring countless replacements before the recommended replacement dates. Recently, a starter lasted only 6 months before failing. When a mechanic looked at the starter, he said that there is probably something wrong with the ignition causing the starter to continuously run while the engine is on. This resulted in the starter completely burning up on the inside. Smoke was visible from this starter. The key also slips out of the ignition in any position, including when the engine is on and car is moving. There is a recall from GM affecting…
Electrical System · at 134,000 miles · reported Mar 23, 2015
The contact owns a 2002 saturn sc. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start until after awaiting several hours later. The failure recurred on a separate occasion. Also,the key became extremely difficult to turn in the ignition switch. In addition, the key released independently from the ignition switch on numerous times. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 134,000.
Air Bags · at 150,000 miles · reported Nov 3, 2014
Passenger airbag deployed while driving through a parking lot at approx. 15 MPH. Car went over a speedbump and airbag spontaneously deployed. No passenger was in the seat at the time. Vehicle ignition "locks" after key is removed, sometimes making it very difficult to turn key when starting car again. Key can also be remived while car is in motion without turning off the ignition.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 Saturn SC have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2002 Saturn SC as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 Saturn SC?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (12 reports), followed by air bags (6). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 65,000 miles.
Are Saturn recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Saturn dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.