2002 Saturn Vue Excessive knocking and stalling

KMDMYR

MEMBER
2002 SATURN VUE

Engine Mechanical problem
2002 Saturn Vue 4 cyl Two Wheel Drive Manual

My wife's 2002 Saturn Vue is stalling in adle at traffic lights and when she is driving there is excessive knocking in the engine compartment. Is there a way to diagnose what the problem is? My father in law thinks it might be computer or timing belt. How would I know?

1 Reply

MATHIASO

MECHANIC
1,209 POSTS

Welcome to 2carpros. Com

There are lots of things that can cause engine noises.
Lets start with basics.
First, check the engine dipstick to see if the oil level is low. If low, add oil to bring it back up to the full mark. Is the engine still noisy? Check your oil pressure. A low gauge reading (or oil warning light) would indicate a serious internal engine problem that is preventing normal oil pressure from reaching the upper valve train components. The cause might be a worn or damaged oil pump, a clogged oil pump pickup screen or a plugged up oil filter. Using too thick a viscosity of motor oil during cold weather can also slow down the flow of oil to the upper valve train, causing noise and wear.
Is there engine light? Engine code?
Engine code help determine which system has problem.
The most likely problem will be Spark Knock (Detonation) caused by an inoperative EGR valve, over advanced ignition timing, engine overheating, carbon buildup in the combustion chambers, or low octane fuel.