Is the Saturn SW Reliable?
1992–2001 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Saturn SW? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Saturn SW Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | 1 | 5 | 1 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 2000 | 2 | 10 | 3 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1999 | 0 | 7 | 4 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1998 | 0 | 14 | 1 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1997 | 0 | 14 | 1 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1996 | 0 | 20 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1995 | 0 | 21 | 5 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1994 | 0 | 15 | 9 | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1993 | 1 | 16 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
| 1992 | 0 | 2 | — | — | 57 | Fair |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the SW Compares to Similar Vehicles
The SW scores exactly at the sedan average.
Known Saturn SW Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 124 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Saturn SW reliable?+
The Saturn SW scores 72/100 on our reliability index — rated "Good." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 4 recall campaigns and 124 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year SW is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2001 SW achieved the highest reliability score of 57/100 with 1 recall and 5 complaints.
How many miles does a SW last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Saturn SW owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used SW will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Saturn SW Research
Check a Specific Saturn SW VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
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