Are 1996 Saturn SC2 coupes reliable?

(2011-05-01 14:30:32)

1. Maximus Says: I'm thinking of getting one as my first car. I would really appreciate the advice and experience with these cars from anyone.

2. Hank Scorpio Says: They tend to last in areas with little precipitation/seawater. Where I live I see these old saturns all the time...they don't look pretty but they still run fairly well. Only problem I can see is that these 90's era saturns didn't use the same engines as the other gm 4 cyls (i.e. jbody cavalier, sunfire, etc.) so if the engine goes it can be more expensive to get a replacement engine. It's not just the displacement that's different thee engine design is different (last time I checked).

As a first car it should be okay because they're cheap, get decent mileage, and have the dent resistant panels; just have the car inspected by a mechanic prior to purchase. And ALWAYS check the obd2 system for readiness in case the seller is trying to sell you a vehicle that needs emissions control work.

3. Vipassana Says: If you maintain them, they last.

If you don't, they won't.

So...how would they be "reliable", when that implies that they can take care of themselves?