Most common 1997 Saturn SW problems
Share of the 31 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Saturn SW complaints by model year
Best SW years: 2001, 2000, 1999. Years to avoid: 1995, 1998, 1997. Compare all years →
What 1997 Saturn SW owners say
Electrical system
Tl* the contact owns a 1997 Saturn SW. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, smoke started to emit from the ignition after the key was inserted into the ignition switch. The contact immediately removed the key and towed the vehicle to an independent mechanic. The technician diagnosed that the ignition switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 150,000.
I called Saturn of eatontown, nj reporting an electrical problem with the ignition and door bell alarm-it rang constantly. I was told by the service manger not to worry, use a little cw spread; 3 days later, the steering column and ignition caught on fire. Saturn is refusing to honor safety recall TSB # 97-c-02, dated apr 97, titled, "recall-ignition cylinder malfunction." I understand that under federal law a manufacturer-initiated safety recall is equal to a NHTSA safety recall and must be remedied at no cost to the consumer. I thank you for your assistance in this matter. Anthony a. Sessa p. S. I am not sure when my deceased father purchased this vehicle.
Transmission & drivetrain
Dt*: the contact stated while driving 25 MPH slowing down to make a left turn, a loud noise came from under the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a local independent repair shop for inspection. Upon inspection, the mechanic determined the transmission blown from the inside out and needed to be replaced. The dealership was notified, however no repairs have been made.
A bolt in transmission broke off and broke through the casing, causing transmission fluid to leak.. Vehicle could catch fire. Contacted dealer.
Brakes
Tl* the contact owned a 1997 Saturn SW. While driving 40 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed, but failed to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that the emergency brake was applied, but also failed to stop the vehicle. As a result, the contact crashed into another vehicle. The air bags deployed, but the contact sustained bruises and bumps. The front seat passenger was injured and received medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed and towed to a tow lot. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. ...
Ongoing problem with brakes squealing when they were applied within the first mile of driving,. Then brakes failed. Dealer notified, and informed consumer that it was a normal condition. Asking NHTSA to shed some light on this matter.
1997 Saturn SW engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.9L 4-cyl | 5-speed manual | FWD | 24 / 34 / 28 |
| 1.9L 4-cyl | 4-speed automatic | FWD | 23 / 31 / 26 |
EPA ratings. Class: Wagon.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 Saturn SW a good car?
Based on 31 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 SW rates use caution: 1.6× as many complaints as a typical year of the SW at the same age. It is one of the SW years we suggest avoiding. 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 1997 Saturn SW?
The electrical system — 8 complaints, 26% of all complaints for this model year, most often about horn. Next are the transmission & drivetrain (5) and brakes (5).
How many recalls does the 1997 Saturn SW have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1997 Saturn SW. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Saturn SW?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2001, 2000 and 1999. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 1995, 1998 and 1997. See the full Saturn SW years comparison.
At what mileage do 1997 Saturn SW problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 92,000 miles; 0% 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.