New to Saturn

I have recently bought a station wagon 1998 with 5 speed transmission. (I
think 1.9L single overhead cam). We are planning to pick this car this week
as it is going through safety inspection right now. It has 100,000Km, Could
anyone tell me a bit more about this engine such as typical problematic
areas. For example, water pump and ignition module or injectors. I am
planning to have the timing belt replaced within a week, do I have to
replace water pump too? Coolant, Is it Dexcool? Any issue with the coolant
system?

Thx in advance for your help.

 

No timing belt - you have a chain. alternators can be a weak point.
keep the oil changed and you will keep the chain happy. and yes, teh
coolant is dexcool.

 

Before you accept the car, check for the dreaded (and common) oil-burn
problem. Look at the dip stick, the oil fill cap, PCV valve and throttle
body, not the oil.

 

Thanks,
The information I found from internet seems to indicate that Saturn engine
suffer heavy oil consumption (1 qt after 400 to 500 miles) Ouch!. It also
said that this oil consumption problem normally occurs at 70,000 miles and
above. Few have suggest to replace PCV valve while other said that an oil
ring is start to fail that engine over haul is required to control the oil
consumption. One most elegant solution to the problem is to switch oil
grade to 20W50!
So is this a common to majority Saturn owners or just a few isolate
incident? Should I switch to 20W50 oil once I pickup the car?

Thx again for all your help in advance.

 

The only reason to go to a 20W50 is to slow an existing leak, but you also
starve your engine for lubrication which can make new leaks. If it's not
consuming a bunch of oil when you get it, the best plan is to use a good
"high-mileage" oil (high-mileage synthetics are available) and change it
often.

 

NO! With oil that thick, it might not evenly flow through some tiny
ports, creating localized underlubrication, and over heating. You
want to follow the manufactures oil viscosity recommendations. If the
car burns oil, you shouldn't buy it. Unless the car is real cheap.
The oil burning issue could cause the car to fail
inspections(smoking), and I'm sure there are other cars out there that
are in better condition you can buy.

imho,

tom @ www.CarFleaMarket.com

 

Thanks for the information's. I have been very careful in selecting this
vehicle but without knowing oil consumption problem. Perhaps I do have or
not have this oil consumption issue, but it is something I will keep an eyes
closely to ensure proper measure is taken. I have checked the e-test
certificate for HC reading and other emission criteria readings. The
vehicle passed emission with good margin. Test drove the car for about 20
min, everything seems fine. I did notice that car idling at 1000 rpm for
about 10 min of the total test drive time (temp. outside is around 0
Fahrenheit) before it drop to 700-800 RPM. Car drive smooth, accelerate
well with 5 speed tranny. Heater is working fine. Other than high RPM
during 1st 10 min drive, I would say the car drive like a new car. Once I
pick up the car this Friday, I will check the oil and will stick to
recommended oil from Saturn (I think 10W30). I must say that this newsgroup
has been helpful to me to acquire some level of knowledge about Saturn
engine and I am appreciated.

 

5W30 is what Saturn recommends year round. The lighter (compared to 10W30)
oil provides for higher fuel efficiency. I prefer to use 5W30 in Winter and
the 10W30 during spring/summer/fall in all my vehicles since 10W30 provides
superior high temperature lubrication and cold starting is not an issue for
me during the rest of the year.

Sounds like the car is in good shape. Ask to get the maintenance records
and then you will know for sure. Good luck!

Bob