I have a 1998 saturn sl2 the other day I turned off the car and 5 minutes later i came back and the car would not start. when I turn the key als the instruments work including door locks and radio. T

SOURCE: Saturn SL2

I had a similar problem on my 94 SL2. Turn the key…..Nothing.
Even worse, it was intermittent, the worst type to troubleshoot.

At first it was rare. Pulling out the key , putting it back in and turning usually worked.
Over time it got progressively worse and stubborn.

Then one day it wouldn’t start for anything.

My car has an alarm with a ‘starter kill’. My first thought, alarm malfunction. So I located the two wires (they can be any color) going from the alarm module to the steering column. They are usually labeled appropriately on the module. I used a small jumper wire (alligator clips) to short them at the alarm. If the alarm was the problem, this would fix it. It didn’t.

Time to take apart the steering column.

The key tool will be a 7 or 8mm socket. Take off the two piece steering column shroud to expose the wiring.

On the left side, directly opposite the ignition, you’ll see a piece of round plastic held on with two bolts. This is really the ignition switch.
Take out the bolts (again 7 or 8mm).
Take out the two plugs (blue and white) from behind it.
Take off the switch.

Plan A: (For most people)
Replace this. Bring it with you to the parts store to compare it.
Bring it home. Bolt it on. Plug it in. Turn the key.

I can’t tell you how much it was , since I used …

Plan B: (For the deservedly cocky)
I took the switch apart and cleaned the contacts.
They were burnt. I scraped them clean, re-assembled the switch and tested it.
Vroom..

If you need me to explain Plan B, use Plan A.

Hope this helps, let me know how it goes. Any other problems, click the ASK button.

Remember: Good things come to those who Rate.
Mike

SOURCE: 1996 Saturn SL2 car won't restart after running

engine coolant temp. sensor is cracked pull it out it is on the side of the head.. easy fix you will see its cracked when you pull it 15 dollar fix

SOURCE: 98 saturn sl1 won't start

If the problem occurs after the car has been driven long enough to reach normal operating temperature, the problem is the starter. If the 'no crank' occurs cold, retest the battery.

SOURCE: 98 saturn sl1 won't start

I have a 98 Saturn SL1 from time to time it would not start, it wouldn't even try. I knew the battery was good. It turned out to be the cranshaft position sensor.

SOURCE: key wont come out of ignition in 1998 saturn sl2

I had difficulty with my key in my 98 sl1 too but I discovered that I just had to push on the shifter until you hear it click, then you could jimmy the key a bit to get it out.