Hey, maybe somebody out there can help...I have a 1995 SL1 that has been my wife's since 1998. I just began a new job and am driving a whole lot more (from 100-150 miles/week to anywhere from 100 to 250 miles per day) so I've taken a new interest in extending the life of the car. It tends to overheat anytime the temp is above 65 degrees, but will run much cooler if the AC is on. Also, when the temp gauge rises above the 1/4 mark the revs jump and the service engine light comes on (I haven't yet had the code checked) Other than that it runs fine although it burns an INSANE amount of oil (seems to be fairly common?) I like to do things myself, mainly because $$ is tight, so any pointers would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

Replace ECTS (Engine Coolant Temp Sensor) and connector (Saturn only part). Fan is designed to kick on when AC is engaged. When ECTS fails it tells PCM coolant is always at -40 and never engages the aux fan.

Get codes read at Autozone or similar and post.

Or use the paperclip method (since it is ODB1)

 

at the risk of sounding ignornat, what is the "paperclip method?"

 

On the older Saturns you can read the trouble codes yourself by jumping the A and B terminals on the data link on the dash below the drivers left side. You do this with the engine and ignition off. Switch to the run position. DO NOT START THE CAR. THIS WOULD BE BAD!!! The "Check Engine" light will start flashing. Just count the flashes. It'll start with three series of 1 .... 2. After this, you'll get three reps of each trouble code follwed by 1..2 again. Do this and post the codes. Very usefull clues.

 

I'll try it...thanks!