I have a 1995 Saturn SL1 that left me stranded a few days ago. It has been running well since I bought it two months ago, but it suddenly quit on me.

I started it and let it warm up for a few minutes before hitting the road. I made it about two miles, and then I felt it lurch slightly (while driving). I dismissed that first one as being a bump in the road or something, then it did it again five seconds later. As I slowed down and pulled over to turn it around it lost all power.

Right now the car is hard to start and idles very rough. It will not stay running in gear without extra gas.

I changed the fuel filter, but that was no help.

I pulled the spark plug wires one at a time to check them, and one of them came apart with a reddish-brown puff at the spark plug. I then changed all four spark plugs and wires, but again, no help.

When I checked for codes, I got code 33 (MAP sensor voltage out of range-high) and code 34 (MAP sensor voltage out of range-low) at the same time. I've read that disconnecting the MAP sensor sends the system into a backup mode. I tried that, but again, no fix.

Is there anything I can do without throwing more parts at it? I'm hesitant to buy specialized test equipment, especially if it costs the same or more than that part I'm checking in the first place.

Sounds like you may have a bad alternator.  Go by AutoZone or another auto parts store and they can test it for you for free.

I bought a new coil pack and tried it in both positions, but it was no help. I had the engine running for about 10 seconds total. After that, I pulled the sparks plugs, and all four were wet and smelled like gas.

I think that year was throttle body injected on that motor correct?



I had a 93 - they were pretty simple if I recall from engine management/electronics perspective.  I'd try replacing the alternator or testing it first (make sure you're getting proper voltage output) as a start.  



Wish I could offer more.  Look at SaturnFans.com - lots of really knowledgable folks there and huge resources to poke through.

try over at SATURN FANS you can seach your symptoms without joining.  I just bought a 99 and they have been very helpful with the issues I have had.

Do you have a DVOM?
















 

It was the EGR valve itself. It was stuck wide open. The engine ran 100% better after I replaced the valve.