Hey Brian==it is in the fromt of the intake manifold. Drain the rakiator then remove it and install the new one. GoodluckJoe
That would acually be the fan sensor. There is a coolant temperature sensor on the right hand end (looking from the front) of the engine. When it fails, the idle speed goes a bit goofy and the engine tends to ide fast. The gauge will also do some interesting things as well.
This is best done with a cold engine but can be done hot, just be very very careful and make sure the pressure is off the cooling system but once you have released it, put the cap back on tight.
The sensor has 2 wires, yellow and black, and is clipped onto the sensor with a snap connector. Be careful not to pull the wires but to pull the sensor off with the plastic holder. Once the wires are free, then you can remove the old sensor.
Make sure to prepare the new one by wrapping Teflon tape on the threads to seal it. That works best. Remove the old sensor and quickly put the new one into place and finger tighten. Once it snuggs up, then finish tightening it into place.
Make sure you replace the wires otherwise it will at least set an error code or 2.
Good luck.
Refer to the link below
Replace your Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. Visit Saturnfans.com for help in diagnosis
The sensor is threaded into the coolant passage in the back of the cylinder head.
Replace the engine coolant temperature sensor. Your car has two, replace the one with the 2 wire connector
Engine coolant temperature switch/sensor
Faulty coolant temp sensor can cause the vehicle to run poorly, if run at all. If you are leaning toward replacing the sensor you will be happy to know the sensor is relatively cheap, around $12, and simple to replace. Please visit my Bio for a link to my saturn help site for image of where the coolant temperature sensor is located.
Replace your Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. Your car has two, replace the one with the two wire connector
To replace the coolant temperature sensor on a 2002 Saturn, first ensure the engine is cool and disconnect the negative battery cable. Locate the sensor, which is typically found near the thermostat housing or on the engine block, and unplug the electrical connector. Remove the old sensor using a socket or wrench and install the new sensor, making sure to torque it to the manufacturer's specifications. Finally, reconnect the electrical connector and the battery cable, and check for leaks after refilling the coolant if necessary.
under the backseat and you just pull it out and put a new one right back in
on the right side of the engine
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor.
To replace the coolant sensor on a 2004 Saturn Ion, first, ensure the engine is cool and disconnect the negative battery terminal to avoid electrical issues. Locate the coolant temperature sensor, which is typically found near the thermostat housing on the engine. Remove the electrical connector and unscrew the old sensor using a socket wrench. Install the new sensor, reconnect the electrical connector, and reattach the battery terminal, ensuring to refill any lost coolant if necessary.