Expert: Mike Evans - 9/30/2010

Question
I have a 1998 Saturn SL-1, with approximately 128,000 miles.  I've been pretty good about oil changes...generally every 3,000 miles, though occasionally I might go 4,000.  
Right now, my oil light sometimes flashes on and off...though the oil level is full.  (This morning, for example, I had my oil changed...and the light flashed on and off a few times just as I was turning into our neighborhood.  I checked the oil level when I got home, just to be sure, and it was perfect.)
I am assuming there's probably a loose connection somewhere, and I wondered if you could give me any suggestions on what to check.  If you have any other suggestions, of course, I'd appreciate anything you could tell me.
Warm regards,
David Gardner


Answer
    I've never seen the oil level sensor on a Saturn.  But, like most GM cars, it should be screwed into a boss that is welded to the oil pan.  Just slide under the car and look at the oil pan near where it fastens to the block.  If you can't see, run your fingers over it.  You will find a sensor with wires attached to it.  That's it.  Buy a new one, drain the pan, replace it, and fill the pan back up.  If you are using a real mechanic and not an oil-change shop, they can do it for you when they change the oil next time.