Why does the check engine light in my SL turn on when I start my car?

It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. It’s just your SL firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Why is my Saturn SL making engine noise?

Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Saturn SL engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.

What could damage a Saturn engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Saturn SL engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Can I use water in my Saturn SL radiator?

While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your SL radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What could cause my SL engine to suddenly stop?

There are different reasons your SL vehicle engine could suddenly stop. You may be looking at a lack of fuel, faulty sensors, issues with the ignition system, engine overheating, electrical problems, or mechanical troubles.

Where can I go for Saturn SL repair?

For Saturn SL engine repair, trust your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. You can make an appointment today at any of our thousands of locations across the U.S.

1997 Saturn SL Engine Repair

Learn about

1997 Saturn SL Trim Options

Select your Saturn SL trim level to learn more about Saturn-recommended engine repair. Use the following chart to find information.

L4/1.9L

1997 Saturn SL Repair

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Saturn SL’s engine parts and components will change. We’re here to help when something stops working. Select a repair or category to learn more about 1997 Saturn SL services.

We Care for Saturn SL Engines

Saturn SL engines are known for their reliability. You may have even been thinking about that when you bought it. However, the wear-proof engine has yet to be invented! Things can go sideways sometimes. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1997 Saturn service center — quick! That's when it's time to head to Firestone Complete Auto Care. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know Saturn SL engines. Schedule a courtesy inspection at the first sign of engine trouble. After all, Firestone Complete Auto Care is one of the most popular picks for professional engine repairs thanks to its service and affordability.

Check Engine Light on 1997 Saturn SL

As soon as your SL check engine light turns on, it’s time to get an expert’s opinion. A check engine light that’s on or flashing could be a symptom of a serious problem in your car’s starter, Possible causes can include a failing oxygen sensor, worn spark plug, a clogged catalytic converter, or a leaking engine vacuum, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Bring your SL to Firestone Complete Auto Care to get computerized diagnostics and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. engine pinging noises, essential fluid leaks, or engine misfiring.

Saturn SL Engine Repair

If your 1997 Saturn SL needs engine repair, our expert techs will let you know what needs to be done and why before they get started. We make recommendations, but you make the final decision. If a repair can wait, we'll let you know. We'll also tell you if it's necessary for your safety. We seek to give you all the info you need to make a smart decision about our services. By choosing Firestone Complete Auto Care for SL engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Saturn-approved parts and fluids — serpentine belt, motor oil seal, fuses, or other parts.

Questions About 1997 Saturn SL Engines

Why does the check engine light in my SL turn on when I start my car? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. It’s just your SL firing up its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Why is my Saturn SL making engine noise? Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Saturn SL engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you're low on oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
What could damage a Saturn engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Saturn SL engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.
Can I use water in my Saturn SL radiator? While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your SL radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What could cause my SL engine to suddenly stop? There are different reasons your SL vehicle engine could suddenly stop. You may be looking at a lack of fuel, faulty sensors, issues with the ignition system, engine overheating, electrical problems, or mechanical troubles.
Where can I go for Saturn SL repair? For Saturn SL engine repair, trust your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. You can make an appointment today at any of our thousands of locations across the U.S.