Check Engine light comes on every so often

MASCHERGEN

MEMBER
2002 SATURN SL1
108,000 MILES

I have a 2002 Saturn SL1.

Check Engine light comes on every so often, then goes back off after a few days/weeks/months. Car shop says I need a new "PCM Control Module", but my buddy says the check engine light is usually related to emissions. Often a loose vacuum hose? I NEED my car to pass inspection before the end of this month, so that I can transfer my IL title/registration to TX.

This alone will cost nearly $400, but only if my car passes TX state inspection first. The "PCM Control Module" repair will also cost almost $400. I don't have much $ left, and if I can't transfer everything from IL to TX, I will not have a vehicle to get to the job I so badly need.

The car was plugged into the diagnostics at Auto Zone. Code "P0341" for the cam shaft position sensor, but my make/model/year car NEVER had a cam shaft position sensor. Please help. Advice?

No car=no job, which equals no home, again.

8 Replies

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

So is the P0341 the only code you have?I really dont see it being the pcm though. Its usually spark plugs and wires causing that code. Look and see if there is black carbon where the spark plugs meet the wires. Also you dont have platnuim plugs in the engine do you?

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Friday, January 13th, 2012 AT 12:20 AM

SATURNTECH9

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I would say your due for some plugs and wires. There super easy to replace in those cars. What is your zip code so I can get you a etimate?

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Friday, January 13th, 2012 AT 1:52 AM

MASCHERGEN

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5 POSTS

MY zip code is 78748. If this is something I can replace myself, what type of tools will I need. I imagine a special socket will be necessary? Again, cost is very important here. If this IS something I can do myself, will I have to "reset" the "service engine" light, or will it turn itself off? It is imperative that my car pass Texas state inspection parameters before the end of the month.

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Friday, January 13th, 2012 AT 2:46 AM

SATURNTECH9

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You will need a 3/8" drive 5/8" spark plug socket a 3/8" drive ratchet and a 4" long 3/8" drive. To replace the wires you will need a 3/8 drive 8mm socket because the wires are bolted down to the coils. Use ngk copper spark plugs no platnuim omes. As far as the wires goes dont by the cheapest ones get like some bosh ac delco or nipon denso wires. The could needs to be reset with a scan tool or it will take a will to clear by itself.

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Friday, January 13th, 2012 AT 5:14 AM