1997 Saturn SL steering problems

10 complaints (4% of all complaints for this car). 1 crash reported.

owner complaints: 10
of this car's complaints: 4%
crashes: 1
recalls: 1

Which part fails

Steering wheel/handle bar
3
Hydraulic power assist: pump
2
Rack and pinion
1
Hydraulic power assist system
1

At what mileage

Complaints by mileage at the time of the problem.

0k-25k

25k-50k

50k-75k

75k-100k

100k-125k

125k-150k

150k-175k

175k-200k

200k+

Saturn SL steering problems in other years

Related recalls

Steering: gear box (other than rack and pinion)Reported August 29, 1997 · 14,580 vehicles affected

What is wrong: Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with manual steering. The pinion bearing cage in the steering gear can separate under high steering system load conditions, such as parking lot or similar low speed maneuvers.
Risk: This could result in the pinion gear disengaging from the rack causing a loss of steering control.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the manual steering gear assembly.

Recall number 97V138000 · Recall details

What 1997 Saturn SL owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Dec 17, 2004 · Steering, Tires · 72,844 miles · CA · crash · 1 injury

While driving 60 MPH, the consumer lost steering control. This caused the consumer to hit a tree. The vehicle was towed. Please provide more information. *jb. Driver sustained injuries.

Filed Apr 30, 2001 · Steering · UT

There is alot of play in steering, and theres avery loud poping noise when turning wheel.

Filed Mar 20, 2001 · Body, Brakes · MA

Head gasket, water pump, oil pan gasket, serpentine drive belt, and coolant light on, service engine light was also on, work completed by dealer.

Filed Jul 12, 2000 · Electrical, Steering · CA

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.

Filed Jun 9, 2000 · Steering · FL

While driving on rough roads or making a turn around a corner consumer heard a clunking noise or something loose. Took to dealer , and they could not remedy the problem. *ak.

Filed Aug 9, 1999 · Brakes, Engine · MD

Defective fan belt tensioner assembly failed, causing a loss of power steering and ABS while making u-turn.

Filed Jul 21, 1998 · Steering · TX

When traveling 35 MPH and when attempting to make a turn, consumer noticed the vehicle became very difficult to operate due to the power steering pump which went out and needed replacing. Consumer has contacted the dealer, dealer has replaced parts. Please provide any further details.

Filed Jun 20, 1997 · Steering · MD

While driving vehicle consumer heard a clicking noise then pulled vehicle ihnto a parking lot. Consumer had no control of steering, and steering wheel had no connection to column. Vehicle has never been in an accident.

Filed May 21, 1997 · Steering · MD

Traveling about 5 MPH there was total loss of steering, resulting in steering lock up diagnosis, the retaining clip omitted during assembly.

Filed Mar 3, 1997 · Steering · MD

Steering wheel came completely apart while she was driving.

Questions about the 1997 Saturn SL steering

Does the 1997 Saturn SL have steering problems?

Owners have filed 10 complaints about the steering of the 1997 Saturn SL, 4% of all its complaints.

At what mileage do 1997 Saturn SL steering problems start?

Not enough complaints include the mileage to tell.

Was there a recall on the 1997 Saturn SL steering?

Yes, 1 recall: 97V138000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.

What year does the Saturn SL have bad steering?

The Saturn SL model years with the most steering complaints are 1995 (37 complaints), 1996 (20 complaints) and 1994 (11 complaints).