Fuel pumps are common problems for that Saturn.
Try this:
When you get in, turn the key to run. Don't start it, but listen for a soft humming (this is the fuel pump). When that humming stops (a few seconds) turn the key off and on again. You should hear more humming. Do this a few times. Then start the car.
If the car starts right up, you need to replace the fuel pump.
Talk to the dealer - they might cover part of the cost.
Forgive me for being unversed in both newsgroups and cars - we have a
> problem that has just come up with our Saturn, and I'm looking for some > ideas.
>
> We have a 1997 Saturn SL. Typically it will start immediately without
> putting a foot on the gas. In the past few weeks, however, we have had
> to give it some gas to get it started, sometimes all the way to the
> floor; otherwise it won't turn over. At times that doesn't help, and it
> needs a 2nd or 3rd try.
>
> We just had the spark plugs replaced, the fuel filter replaced, and a
> fuel injection service, simply because they were needed. None of these
> things seem to have been the problem. Is this an electrical issue? Or
> a fuel issue? If anyone has any ideas what may be going on, we'd
> greatly appreciate hearing them. I'd like to address this before taking
> a several hour trip.
>
> Thanks in advance,
>
> Al
>