* Age and Degradation: Fuel lines, especially older rubber ones, become brittle and crack over time due to exposure to fuel, heat, and UV light. Cracks lead to leaks and potential ruptures.
* Corrosion: Rust and corrosion can weaken metal fuel lines, causing them to fail. This is particularly prevalent in areas with harsh winters and road salt.
* Mechanical Damage: The lines can be damaged by impacts, such as hitting a pothole or debris on the road. A poorly routed line that rubs against moving parts can also wear through.
* Improper Installation: If fuel lines have been recently replaced, improper installation could lead to kinks, crimps, or stress points, making them prone to failure.
* High Fuel Pressure: An issue with the fuel pump or fuel pressure regulator could result in excessively high fuel pressure, stressing the lines beyond their capacity.
* Inferior Fuel Line Material: Using low-quality or incompatible fuel line material during repairs can lead to premature failure.
* Fuel Additives: Some fuel additives are known to degrade certain types of fuel lines faster than others.
To determine the *exact* cause of the fuel line failure on a specific Saturn wagon, a mechanic would need to inspect the vehicle. Ignoring a blown fuel line is extremely dangerous due to the risk of fire. It's crucial to have it repaired by a qualified mechanic immediately.