Most common 2000 Saturn S-Series problems
Share of the 8 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Saturn S-Series complaints by model year
Best S-Series years: 1997, 1999, 2000. Compare all years →
What 2000 Saturn S-Series owners say
Electrical system
On December 14th I left work at 4:00 pm (temp was 20 degrees f), drove 1/2 mile, turned off ignition and made a quick purchase. Started the car, drove about 1/2 mile and the car began missing. I drove another block, the engine light came on, went off, and the car missed again. I headed back towards my workplace to use a telephone to call my spouse to pick me up, but the car completely quit after driving a block or two. I got out of the car to walk, but notice smoke coming from under the hood, then I heard a sparking, crackling sound and looked under the front of the car and saw a small fire burning. I approached a residence, the occupants had already observed the smoke from the car and had begun the 911 call. The flames quickly grew and the front of the car was completely in flames and black smoke by the time the fire department responded.
Tried to insert the key into the ignition to start but the steering column was locked. Could not jiggle the steering wheel to unlock. Mechanic said the ignition cylinder was faulty, however when he tried to remove it to replace, it would not come out. Had to replace the entire assembly. First replacement assembly ordered from Saturn was faulty so had to order another one. Saturn mechanics said they had seen "several" of the same type of problem. I'm keeping the original parts in case there is a recall. The car only has 44K miles on it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2000 Saturn S-Series a good car?
Based on 8 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2000 S-Series rates average: 20% fewer complaints than a typical year of the S-Series at the same age. It is one of the best S-Series years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2000 Saturn S-Series?
The electrical system — 4 complaints, 50% of all complaints for this model year, most often about starter assembly. Next are the lights (1) and windows, wipers & sunroof (1).
How many recalls does the 2000 Saturn S-Series have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2000 Saturn S-Series. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Saturn S-Series?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 1997, 1999 and 2000. See the full Saturn S-Series years comparison.
At what mileage do 2000 Saturn S-Series problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 87,000 miles; 25% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.