Bad thermostat?
 

so i have a 02 sc2, the temp gauge never goes over a quarter of the way up but i still get heat. is this normal to be running that cool?

likely a failed ECTS (Engine coolant temp sensor. tells the PCM the coolant temp and also drives the dash gauge. Influences air/fuel mix among other things. When they fail they tend to "read cold".

Replace with a brass tipped style replacement. Should also replace connector too.

Get from a GM dealer.

Two wire device located in cylinder head on passenger side. Use teflon tape on threads and work on a cool engine.

cool thanks, would have never guessed. would a autozone or one of those type places carry that or would that be something that is dealer only? since saturns are discontinued now

connector is dealer only so might as well get the right ECTS while you're there

Be sure to get a sensor that has a metal tip, not a resin-coated tip. Also, use Teflon tape on the threads.......