Hi all, I am new to the forum & read through the past posts looking for my problem with no results. My 1999 SL2 with 93 K miles DOHC engine is making a noise on the upper passenger side of the engine. The noise is present at idle and at speed engine cold or warmed up. With a mechanics stethoscope I have isolated the grinding noise to the upper right side motor mount where it bolts to the top of the engine with 3 bolts directly over the idler wheel. (See image) The X indicates where the noise is most pronounced with the stethoscope probe. I can find no info in my Haynes manual for servicing the idler wheel as this is where I think the noise is coming from. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

From your description, I suspect that the tensioner bearing is beginning to fail. Replace the tensioner assembly. The bearing is not repairable ...

 

Take the belt off and if the noise goes away then find it from that point.

Change that top engine mount but do not buy it from your local parts store because it's worthless. Drive to your nearest SATURN dealer and get it, evan if it's a hour or two away.