Take a compression test of that cylinder. If it is low. it probaqbly is a burned valve, If it is ok, check for a bad injector if it is port injection. Also check for a vacuun leak. Change your spark plugs and wires.Also Check for broken Sparkplug or bad wire...I had Identical problem when I bought my 01 Nissan and it had water in the plug hole from being detailed,I sprayed penatrant oil in hole and on plug wire and problem solved within 1/2 mile.Also check for oil in the plug holes ...Most likely cause is a burnt exhaust valve BUt yes do check basics first A commoc problem is corrosion on the ignition coil especially #3 coil tower Remove the wire from the coil and make sure it's not corroded. CHeck the resistance of the wires and check the plug gap
What are the torque specifications and the tightening sequence of the cylinder head bolts on a 1996 Saturn SL1?
Several things can cause a Multiple Cylinder Misfire. First and most obvious are your spark plugs and wires. If they havent been changed within the last year that you can remember its time to change them. Faulty Crankshaft sensor would also cause this to happen but is unlikely.
If your check engine light is flashing that means an engine cylinder misfire has been detected
What kind of cylinder?
An engine cylinder misfire has been detected in the # 3 engine cylinder
Several things can cause your 1996 4.3 liter V-6 engine to misfire and have a vibration. A bad fuel injector is the most common cause.
possible misfires caused by spark plug/coil wires
Possible cylinder misfire and/or failing engine mounts.
Engine cylinder ( # 2 ) misfire has been detected
Check your oxygen sensor.
A misfire on cylinder 3 in a 1996 Blazer can be caused by a faulty spark plug, fuel injector, or ignition coil specific to that cylinder. It is recommended to perform a compression test to rule out any internal engine issues and also check for vacuum leaks. Additionally, scan the vehicle's computer for any trouble codes that could pinpoint the exact cause of the misfire.
Trouble code P0301 means: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected