I am in the process of purchasing a ''93 Saturn SL2 which appears to be in good shape except for a couple known, cheap repairs and a significant vibration in the steering column at idle. When I''m stopped at a red light with the engine in gear, the steering wheel vibrates significantly. This is my first Saturn, and I''ve read some reviews that say this model is known for a rather rough ride, but I don''t know if this particular vibration is normal or not. Once I''m driving again, the vibration in the wheel goes away (at least enough not to perceive it). I did notice that the rear-view mirror does vibrate a little while driving enough to make the cars behind you look a little shaky.

One of the two known needed repairs is the MAP sensor, according to the OBD codes (the check engine light comes on after three to four minutes of driving). Is there a possibility that it''s the cause (maybe indirectly) for the vibration? What else could be causing it? Is it a concern enough to call off the sale?

(BTW, in case you''re wondering, the other repair is a power window regulator, so I''m pretty sure that''s not related. [img]smileys/smiley4.gif[/img])

 

Top engine mount

 

Roughly speaking, what would be the expected cost (parts and labor) to repair that at an independent shop?

This car has about 100k miles. Is this an expected repair at that mileage, or is it early?

 

Cost will depend on just how much you and the shop owner are ''buds''. It is a fairly easy fix, but takes a floor jack and block under the engine to release the weight from the top mount. Five nuts (all accessible from the top) and the defective mount lifts out clean. Install new mount, and reinstall nuts. Torque to 37 ft-lb for 1993 engine.


Not sure about the shop time cost (about an hour or so to actually do the work), but the part should run around $40usd. Good luck

 

I once made a quick $20 replacing one for a lady in a Saturn parking lot just outside the service bay doors.