2001 Saturn SL2 1.9L TWINCAM 5 Speed Manual

Asked by Guru2M29F Mar 06, 2020 at 12:09 PM about the Saturn S-Series

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I have 2 issues that are likely related.

1. Engine idles at 1,100 RPM instead of 700-950. My fuel economy is lower than it should be. It warms up at 1,400-1,500 RPM and it takes 3-5 minutes to come down slowly to 1,100. When driving and shifting (5 speed) at lower RPMs 1,100-1,300 range, the engine speed jumps up a few hundred RPMs when I push in the clutch pedal. It does this when engine is warmed up or cold.

2. When driving at highway speed and with the engine warm, when I let my foot off gas and push in the clutch the engine will slow down to 6-700 RPM and jump back up abruptly to over 1,500 and back and forth before it settles at 1,100. This is the only time that the engine speed will jump around. otherwise it runs consistent, just higher than it should.

3. I have replaced the CTS (coolant temp sensor) and it did nothing.

I have done nothing else to this vehicle. Miles are at 102,000.

Please Help!
Thanks.

3 Answers
50

CredibleScience answered 4 years ago

You probably just need to replace your Air Intake Valve and Throttle Position Sensor on the throttle body. I had to do the same thing less than a month ago - after I replaced those parts (maybe about $40 delivered to my front door from Amazon) my high idle rev issue resolved immediately. Took all of an hour start to finish (including the extra advice step below). Also a good idea when you have the throttle body off to replace those 2 pieces that you take brake cleaner and clean the valve. Chances are it's never been done on yours, so it's got 19 years and 102,000 miles of carbon buildup. You'll notice an immediate increase in response and power. Good luck!

2 people found this helpful.
Best Answer Mark helpful

Guru2M29F answered 4 years ago

Thanks for the advice. I am ordering parts tonight. I found the throttle position sensor quite fast but I am having trouble finding the air intake valve. Is that the idle control valve? Piece that has a pointed end and a large black cap on it? Thanks again!

Mark helpful
50

CredibleScience answered 4 years ago

Yes, the Idle Air Control Valve - sorry, I always forget that exact name and just call it the air intake valve since that's what it's doing. :P

Mark helpful

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