GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Saturn 🢒 2001 🢒 SL 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Mechanical - 1.9L 🢒 Oil Pressure Diagnosis and Testing

Tools Required

SA9127E Gage Bar Set


Object Number: 872892 Size: SH

Notice: Use only oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified for Gasoline Engines "Starburst" symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty.

Important: As shown in this chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for you vehicle. However, you can use SAE 10W-30 if it's going to be -7°C (20°F) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use engine oil with viscosity rating such as SAE 10W-40, SAE 20W-50, and 30W as it does not meet Saturn recommended requirements.

Engine Additives

Do not add anything to your oil. Your Saturn Retailer is ready to advise you if something should be added.


    Object Number: 870897 Size: SH

    Important: The oil level should be 4.76 mm (3/16 in) above or below the FULL line on the dipstick, after the engine's oil and filter have been changed. If the oil level is at or below the ADD line, check for oil leaks and add oil up to the FULL line.

  1. Check the engine oil level.

    2. Object Number: 906013 Size: SH

    Important: The cylinder block oil pressure sensor and plug threaded holes in the main oil gallery are not pipe threads. Use only the adapter provided in the SA9127E or a M14 x 1.5-6g threaded fitting and seal.

    Important: A 19 mm (3/4 in) crowfoot and 9.5 mm (3/8 in) wobble drive extension, 76.2 mm (3 in) long, will allow access to the oil pressure sending unit for both removal and torquing.

  2. Remove the oil pressure switch.
  3. Install the oil pressure gage using the SA9127E .

    4. Object Number: 906017 Size: SH
  4. Start the engine and warm it up to normal operating temperature.
  5. Check the oil pressure.

    6. Specifications

    Oil Pressure

        • Standard at idle: 90 kPa (13 psi) min.
        • Service limit at idle: 65 kPa (9 psi) min.
        • Standard at 2,000 RPM: 250 kPa (36 psi) min.
        • Service limit at 2,000 RPM: 200 kPa (29 psi) min.
        • Standard cold, up to 2,500 RPM: 560 kPa (80 psi) max.

    Important: A 19 mm (3/4 in) or 24 mm (15/16 in) crowfoot and a 9.5 mm (3/8 in) wobble drive extension, 76.2 mm (3 in) long, will allow access to the oil pressure sending unit nut for both removal and torquing.

    Important: Check for oil leakage after installing the oil pressure switch.

  6. Install the oil pressure switch.

    7. Tighten
    Tighten the switch to 45 N·m (33 lb ft).