2002 Saturn SC2 Engine runs rough.

JVFLYER

MEMBER
2002 SATURN SC2
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
80,000 MILES

So I was wondering what could be wrong with my car. It seems to run rough at 2 different RPMs. The car starts up fine but when it warms up and the RPMs drop to around 1100-1200 it starts running rough. Then it gets better and when it completely warms up and at idle it runs rough, around 500-700 RRM. When you turn on the Air Conditioner it seems to make the problem much better, you can still feel a little "chugging" sometimes but not nearly as bad. I had the oil, spark plugs, air filter changed and that hasn't made much of an impact. It drives well after it warms up, on the highway and city streets just as long as the RPMs dont drop and it still has pretty good power when you do accelerate from idle. Thanks for you help! Any info will be very helpful. Thanks

1 Reply

IMPALASS

MECHANIC
3,112 POSTS

Hello

There could be a number of different things. First please go to Auto Zone or O'Reilly's and for free they can pull the codes to the car. Make sure if you don't fix it and need to get back with us, tell us what the codes are. Example: P0301 - O2 Sensor bad. Make sure you give us the number and what it says. Also, while there for free also they can bring their tester out and check your battery, alternator and starter. Do this too.

Last you had your plugs changed but you didn't say anything about your wires. You might consider changing them. I would use OEM wires though. Also, you can take a spray bottle with water in it and while the engine is running spray over the plug wires... If the car has problems sparks are jumping and the wires are bad.

Feel free to check these things and if you haven't found your problem - get back with us.
Hope this helps