Two braking systems are available for Saturn vehicles. The conventional (base) brake system consists of front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, with power assist. Optional is an antilock brake system (ABS). This section concerns itself with the conventional brake system.

The drum brake assembly is a leading/trailing shoe design. When the brakes are applied, the wheel cylinder moves both shoes out to contact the drum. With forward wheel rotation, the leading brake shoe provides the majority of the braking force, since it is self-energized, meaning that drum rotation draws the brake shoe into the drum. With reverse wheel rotation, the trailing brake shoe is self energized. Force from the brake shoes is transferred through the shoe anchor, the backing plate, the axle flange, and finally to the wheels. Brake adjustment is automatic, on any brake application. With leading/trailing brakes, it is normal for the leading (front) shoe to wear at a faster rate than the trailing (rear) shoe. The backing plate of the rear brake assembly has an inspection hole which allows for a quick visual inspection of the leading brake shoe/lining. A rubber plug covers the inspection hole to prevent dirt and moisture from entering the rear brake assembly.