Purchased a 1998 SL2 with 144,000 miles yesterday. Everything except temp gauge works, it might not have a thermostat in it, cause it runs cool all the time. What are some of the major issues I should be on the look out for?

Purchased a 1998 SL2 with 144,000 miles yesterday. Everything except temp gauge works, it might not have a thermostat in it, cause it runs cool all the time. What are some of the major issues I should be on the look out for?

Welcome to the forum. You found the most prevalent one already. The Coolant temperature sensor has a plastic/composite tip that cracks.
There is an updated sensor available from saturn with a brass tip that I would recommend. Saturnparts.com or .net has them for under ten bucks. The shipping isn't cheap tho. ($8.25)
Check out these links on replacement procedure.
Changing the ECTS (Engine Coolant Temp Sensor) (http://www.saturnfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=24003)

Changing the ECTS Coolant Temp Sensor (with pictures) (http://www.saturnfans.com/forums/showthread.php?t=37884)

Replacement will help your idle, fuel economy, and driveability
Good luck and let us know how you like your new saturn. :smile:

Thanks, after looking at some of these threads, that’s were I was going to start

around 100 k+ miles a common problem with SL2 and SC2 is the valve/tappet cover gasket leaks around the spark plugs . a simple check is to pull your plug wire out and check for oil. Looks bad but not an expensive fix.