Possible Cause & Correction
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 38 other vehicles, including the 1996 Saturn SW2, 1996 Saturn SW1, 1996 Saturn SL2, 1996 Saturn SL1, and 1996 Saturn SL. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Check following items:
- Check for proper valve timing.
- Check for engine vacuum leaks and/or engine not tuned to specifications.
- Check secondary air injection system.
- Check EGR valve for leaking base gasket or valve hanging open.
- Check engine for sticking or leaking valves.
- Check for fuel or water in vacuum hose to MAP sensor. Also check for restricted hose.
- Check fuel injectors. Perform INJECTOR BALANCE TEST in SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS article.
- Check fuel system. Perform BASIC FUEL SYSTEM CHECKS in BASIC TESTING article.
- Using Spark Tester (ST-125), check available output voltage of ignition coil.
- Check for crossfire between spark plugs, distributor cap and spark plug wires.
- Remove spark plugs and check for wet plugs, cracks, improper gap, burned electrodes or heavy carbon deposits. Also, check condition of distributor cap, rotor and spark plug wires.
- Check for an intermittent ignition system problem.
- Check intake and exhaust manifold passages for casting flash.
- Check distributor vent system (if equipped).
- Check harmonic balancer interrupter rings for missing, broken or bent vanes.