new to saturns

[jabbo45]

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?

[peppermrj]

Originally Posted by jabbo45

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)

Changing the ECTS Coolant Temp Sensor (with pictures)

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

[jabbo45]

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

[greeffs]

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.