I recently took my 2001 Saturn SL to have it's required yearly emissions check performed prior to renewing my registration and for the first time since purchase it failed. I was told by the emission station that the No. 1 cylinder was showing a misfire. The car starts and runs fine with just a hint of vibration. However, when idling there is a sputtering sound from the exhaust. The same sound goes away when the car is above idle. The idle RPM is a constant 750 and never wavers. I have changed the plugs and wires with no change in the sputtering. I changed the wires less than a year ago and originally had two wires crossed, this was quickly corrected. Could this be the reason for the fault code and if so what can I do to have it reset, Any ideas? Also I still get great gas mileage.
Solved my problem: After more internet searching and consulting with my mechanic we determined it was the intake manifold gasket folding over into the #1 cylinder. This is common on Saturn engines. The gasket folds over leaving a leak in the vacuum system which causes the car to run lean. Check for a leak by spraying carburator cleaner around the #1 cylinder intake and you will hear the idle change if there is a leak. I had gasket replaced for $450 and car runs like new. My car is a 2000 saturn SL 1 with 60000 miles on it. Hope this helps someone.
Testimonial: "Thanks it really worked."
The intake gasket is know to "fold" on #1. Spray the #1 intake runner, where it meets the head, with some brake clean. With the engine running. If the idle changes, it is leaking. Replace the gasket.
I had this same problem and did as Bowmanew2002 and
rejakwilson suggested. It took me about 6 or 7 hours cause I really didnt have the tools to do the job but the part only cost me about $30 (after I spent about $300 figuring out the issue and replacing other parts). Anyways thanks guys
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i also have the same problem, changed all plugs and wires with no results.
Have the same thing on a 2000 Saturn SL1. Originally had a random misfire. Once sparks and wires were changed the code changed to misfire on Cylinder 1. Plug on Cylinder one was worn out. Others were not too bad. Mechanic suggests changing Ignition Coils next. Not sure if this will work.
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