I have a 1998 Saturn SL2 and when I go to start it, it clicks like it doesn't want to start and then will finally turn over. Once its warmed up it starts up just fine. Is that a starter problem? At first I thought it was the battery but now I'm not so sure. :-/ Also its running really rough and leaking oil and just recently starting smoking a lot of white smoke. I'm assuming head gasket? I had the gasket cover valve replaced last yr.

SOURCE: 1996 saturn sl2. surges at

Dear Sir/Madam,

This is problem with Head Gasket. Replacing the head gasket it will be fix it.

Head gaskets run anywhere from 20-50 dollars depending on your truck/car, as for installing them on a truck they are relatively easy compaired to todays newer cars. they are located above the block your where your spark plugs are, they stop oil from seeping out of the motor. do it your self and it may take a few hours or pay some one and it will cost aroud 200.00 and up.


Thanks
Good luck


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SOURCE: Is there a how to diagram on replacing a valve

No real diagram, just unbolt valve cover,has rubber seals that fit in groove.

SOURCE: 2001 Saturn,blows Blue smoke only when ideling

It likely has worn out or hardened valve seals in the head(s). Oil is leaking into the cylinders through these seals. I'd try a seal softening agent in the oil before doing a valve job. Check your local auto supply for such stuff. A good mechanic can replace the seals without tearing off the heads.

SOURCE: 1997 Saturn SL1 very hard to start

jlwhelen,
I will suggest that perhaps the blue smoke is not purely oil. It sounds like you may have an ignition problem where the engine has a hard time firing until warmed. The blue smoke may be, at least in part, unspent fuel. I realize that a warm engine that uses oil will smoke blue, but excessively rich conditions on startup can result in a similar effect. If the choke circuit is delivering a little extra fuel from a dirty injector, the problem may be worse when starting from cold.
To remedy this, I would suggest a simple replacement of plugs and wires, as well as a fuel injector cleaner through the tank. I would bet money that these simple maintenance points would solve your problem.

Good luck!
Lucky

SOURCE: 95 saturn sl2 smokes is it the valve seals ?

your pistons are leting blow by get through whick means that your pisten rings are wearing out more then likly