1996 Saturn SC
Only 26 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 26 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 26
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1996: 26 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1991 | 5 |
| 1992 | 16 |
| 1993 | 23 |
| 1994 | 51 |
| 1995 | 39 |
| 1996 | 26 |
| 1997 | 33 |
| 1998 | 13 |
| 1999 | 24 |
| 2000 | 7 |
| 2001 | 21 |
| 2002 | 38 |
Known problem areas
Only 26 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
6 of 26 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline.
Show complaint excerpts
Cylinder head cracked. Nlm
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-12-31
Electrical system
6 of 26 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing interior/under dash and front underhood.
Service brakes
5 of 26 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
Ligthly applied brake to slow down to stop at intersection; though I had foot pressing hard on brake car would not stop, entered intersection and struck a passing car; this was within an hour of picking up the car from garage where repairs had been...
NHTSA ODI report, 2017-01-28
Also filed under Structure and engine
Structure
4 of 26 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing body and frame and members.
Show complaint excerpts
Drivers seat won't stay in upright position when I lean back with slight pressure, whether I am in motion or not. This has been an ongoing problem for about a month. As a previous owner of many cars, I have never heard of this type of problem.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-12-20
Also filed under Seats
Seats
3 of 26 total reports mention: seats, most commonly citing recliner.
Show complaint excerpts
During collision seat back collapsed.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-04-29
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1996 Saturn SC — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 5 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1996 Saturn SC reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1996 Saturn SC?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 23% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1996 Saturn SC have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.