10.0
really awful- Crashes / Fires:
- 1 / 1
- Injuries / Deaths:
- 0 / 0
- Average Mileage:
- 62,800 miles
About These NHTSA Complaints:
The NHTSA is the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints can be spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem. See the Back button — blue bar at the very top of the page — to explore more.
On a rainy night, Jan 10, 2014, I came out of work and started my car. I thanked god it started because sometimes it wouldn't start at all. Even after replacing almost every engine part including the computer. I started driving out of the parking spot and I smelled something burning inside the car. The engine started revving wildly up and down. I had no control of the car. White thick smoke filled the car fast. Flames started shooting out at me from under the dashboard. I was so panicked that I could hardly get out of the car. The insurance co totaled it and I still owe 500.00! I've spent more money trying to get the car to start when I want it to and to stop shutting off while im driving on the highway with my children and or infant granddaughter. This 2003 Saturn L300 has been nothing but a financial and mental nightmare only to go up in smoke, ruin my credit, and leave me stranded with no vehicle once again.
- Tobyhanna, PA, USA
The contact owns a 2003 Saturn L300. The contact stated that the vehicle would exhibit a sharp and abnormal increase in engine rpms when attempting to accelerate. In addition, the vehicle would also exhibit an unusually loud roaring but would not respond. As a result, the catalytic converter failed. The dealer advised the contact that they are aware of the failure but they could offer no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was approximately 133,000. The consumer stated the interior and exterior lights flicker along with the heater, which seems to come intermittently. The water pump and timing belt were replaced. Also, the catalytic converter motor and battery were replaced. Updated 04/15/11
- Tuscaloosa , AL, USA
While driving approx. 65 mph with cruise control on, tapped brake to disengage cruise control. The service engine light came on and the vehicle lost all power. After stopping the vehicle, restarted the engine. Power appeared to be restored but the service engine light remained on. Took vehicle to dealer. Dealer reloaded eeprom software.
- Rancho Cucamonga, CA, USA
- Baltimore , MD, USA