SL2 cooling issue
 

OK, so the problem I am having with the car is that the fans don't turn on unless the AC is turned on. Once the AC is turned on the fans turn on and the engine temp drops like a bat out of hell. Checked all the fuses and everything is good and the engine is not throwing any codes. So, anyone know what the issue could be.?

From your posting, I'm unable to identify your year of Saturn, but the symptoms point to a defective ECTS (Engine Coolant Temp Sensor). It should take an hour or so of your time, and about $40usd in parts.
Use OEM parts, please and make sure the new sensor has the metal tip on it - it is much more hearty. The other part is the connector which goes on the end of the wire that connects to the ECTS. Replace it because it gets corroded/loose over time, and makes a poor connection.
Use Teflon tape on the new part where it screws into the engine, and also be sure the engine is cold when you to the repairs - no need to get burnt

Sorry for not posting that info again, it's a 94 SL2 and if I'm not mistaken it's the same 1.9 liter DOHC engine all the way to the end of the SL production so these instructions should work.

But this actually brings up one more question. Does the ECTS control the temp gauge in the cluster? The only reason I am asking is because the temp gauge is working. So if it does then it's something else but if not that I'm guessing your right on the money.

Actually, the early engines (up through 1995) had two separate sensors ... a two-wire to monitor/control the fans, and a single wire sensor for the temp gauge. You want to replace the two-wire unit ....

Yeah, I just went to Autozone a little while ago and bought the ECTS and they printed out a directions sheet with a pic and description giving me the same info. The sensor was 10..0 bucks from Autozone and it comes with a 2 year warranty. good deal. Again thanks for the info. I will be changing it out tomorrow after I change the oil so I'll let you know how it goes.

Yea i had the same problem with my 92 saturn. I ended up just making a bypass switch in the car just in case.

K, I replaced the ECTS and it worked. Although it waits till the gauge gets to 3/4 before turning on the fans. Is that normal?

3/4 scale is the normal range for fan start up. It's a shame that a defective ECTS won't usually set a SES code.

I just would've figured that it would have kicked in a little sooner. And yes I agree it should throw a code and a SES light.