Help,


My 1996 Saturn SL2 failed the emission test. According to the diagnostic report, the following items need tobe repaired:


P0300 Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected.


P0341 Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance.


P0420 Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)


P1406 Manufacture's code.


Also:


MIL Engine Off: FAIL


MIL Command Status: FAIL


Could you guys please tell me how much it will likely cost to get the aforementioned problems resolved.


Any help will be greatly appreciated.


Thanks,

 

try a tune up

 

A tuneup may fix the multiple misfire, but what about the cam position! If youre going to keep the car, its stuff you need fixed. I'm sure that based just on those readings you are wasting a lot of fuel. I'm sorry I can help you with a price... I'm just not sure.

 

i can't tell you a price without seeing it first hand

 

So Ott, are you a mechanic or a hobbiest?

 

Indeed it is a misfire issue -- however, the "random" part of the code
is usually b.s. -- its usually one cyl missing but the computer gets it
wrong. Cam Sensor code will usually set if P0300 sets b/c the computer
is way confused.



Change wires and plugs (per ottjoe's tune-up suggestion) and get codes
cleared. Drive for about 25 mi after codes are cleared to see what
codes are left. If you get a single cylinder misfire code (P0301-P0304) with new plugs and wires, check ignition coils. If they are ok, you may have a compression issue in that cylinder (we won't go there yet...)



Car must be running pretty rough....


Cost: $50/30min





My guess is you're burning a ton of oil, and probably some raw gas
(from the cyl that is not firing) in the exhaust. The front 02 sensor
(before the cat) can corrode and get fouled with crusty residue -- this
will give a false signal to the computer and trigger a P0420 code. You
won't get an O2 sensor code b/c the sensor still works --- it just
passes a bogus value to the computer.


Of course, your cat may indeed be trashed, but pull the front O2 sensor.....think simple first....


Cost: $90 (?) for sensor --




Per some hunting on the Internet, this is a code for EGR pintle position. EGR valve (part of emissions system) is probably gunked up with carbon from all the oil you're burning and the pintle is not moving freely -- have EGR valve cleaned or replaced.Note -- this is consistent with failing emisions and although costly, I doubt you will pass without addressing this one......


Cost: $200 ishHope this helps

Please post resolution

Derf

 

THANKS guys, especially Derf, for your wisdom. I have an appointment with an emission repair shop this morning.The informationyoushareplaces me in a better position to deal with the emission repair shop. I am hoping that the repair cost does not exceed$400.00. I will keep you guys informed.


Thanks again,


Jacques

 

Thank you for all the help you had provided regarding my 96 Saturn SL2that failed emission. I had a tune up done last December. The mechanic NEVER clearedthe code.


* I cleared the codes by unplugging the battery


* Icleaned the EGR valve


Another mechanicscanned the vehicle for me. The Computergenerates code P0326 (Knock Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance (Bank 1 or Single Sensor).What needs to be done to clear that code?


The vehicleidles high (about 1500 rpm) then goes down to 1000 rmp seconds later. What is the reasonable idling level? Engine Coolant Temparature is also high. Do I need to change the Coolant sensor? If so where is it located?


I appreciate your continued helpguys.


Thanks in advance,


Jacques

 

Its either your temp sensor or your PCV. Mine did that and it was a PCV. Thats only a three dollar part, and real easy to change. If you havent changed it for a while then it could be bad. I normally throw in a new one when I do my fuel filter at about 30K

 

by the way eroc i work and fix thje saturns that my dad sell through his dealership, so i have learned saturns pretty well over the last 4 years