Alternator mount bracket failure on 1997 saturn sl2, VIN #[xxx] while driving to work, the mount bracket for my alternator snapped in half! The design flaw is that the mount bracket is actually part of the aluminum engine block. The engine heats up which causes the metal to expand and become weaker from the thermal stress. There is considerable stress from the alternator (vibration, stress loads). With the heated up metal (weakened from thermal stress) combined with the stress load from the alternator vibrations, it adds up to trouble. Lucky for me I was only going about 20-30 MPH when the bracket failed. This failure has caused almost $1,400 in repairs to my car which is currently @ saturn of pensacola, florida getting repaired. I don't want to think of what would have happened if I had been on the highway at a higher rate of speed and this failure had occurred. My vehicle is 6 years old but this is something that shouldn't fail. Is there any help or information that the federal safety agency can provide me in this matter? Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions. Thank you very much for your help. *la information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).
1997 Saturn SL electrical complaints
Page 2 of 2: complaints 11 to 31 of 31, newest first, as owners wrote them.
1997 sl2 saturn would not start. Battery would not hold charge. Had early electrical system problems (accessories would not function, no dash lights).
Alternator fell off broke from engine bracket. Consumer stated the vehicle is without warranty.
Horn was inoperative. Vehicle checked by dealer, who determined there was a wiring problem.
When starting vehicle consumer noticed smoke coming from underneath the dash. Vehicle was shut off, has not been examined by dealer.
At start up horn sounded, then, smoke was coming from under the dash. Consumer shut off engine, and had vehicle towed to dealer. Dealer determined that wiring harness under the dash needed to be replaced.
Saturn are an easy car to steal. Saturn is aware of this issue so they replaced the ignition switch in the 2000 models. Replaced ignition switch for 109.46 dollars.
The whine noise was heard from the engine diagnostics indicated that the coolant pump was leaking and the serpentine belt had failed.
Vehicle's full electrical system fails while driving, clock even resets. Causing car to shut off. Power steering/ brakes/ radio/ air conditioner/ headlights, etc. Fail. Began around 30,000 miles. Battery and alternator replaced, does not fix problem.
As of today's date, 7/12/00 the saturn auto is with the dealer in santa ana, ca. No safety defect listed in summary.
I have experienced loss of power, no start conditions,and long periods of crank time,even killing a battery that I had to pay for! Notified my dealership and they told me if they---determined it wasn't the fuel pump, I would have to pay a service charge !---and I have the best extended warranty they have !
Serpentine belt tensioner kept tension on the belt felled. Later, alternater came on, and then consumer lost power steering. If consumer was to lose it on the highway at 70 MPH, there could be a serious accident. Mechanic says belt was very poorly designed.
Transmission--bushing went out. Spark misfire--computer module was replaced by dealer.
Horn assembly.
Horn assembly failed. Yh
Starter failure.
Battery failed.
Horn failed. Qcaw
Brakes failed several times resulting in damages to vehicle.
Passenger and driver's side seat belt failed, not releasing properly.
Horn design is difficult to find in emergency situations.
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