Questions and Answers

Pontiac Sunbird Shudders, Stalls Q. Hello, Mr. Ciulla: I have a 1990 Pontiac Sunbird, 4 cylinder. No P/S, P/B with 92,000 miles. I've experienced problem of engine stalling when shifting to D after the car has been running a while (30 minutes or so). I've had starter changed (new), tune up done, one of the spark plugs was not removed last time it was tuned, and changed PCV valve.

The car is older but it still has a lot of life (to me). I'm second owner and car has been at 4,600 to 4,800 foot altitude (Carson City/Reno NV). I've had to re-start, gun engine, and shift to drive two to three times before it goes without stalling. Always after going for a short drive. It did this before I had all the work done and I've just been driving to work and back (10 to 15 minutes each way). This way, no problem.

Longer drives and it happens the same as before all repairs. All fluids are right, muffler and catalytic converter are fine, passed smog within normal limits. Do I need to check anything else? I am very grateful for your work on this site. I bet you've saved many people lots of headaches and expense(s). I appreciate any sort of guidance you may provide.

Thanks,
Lou

A. Sounds like the Torque Convertor Clutch (TCC) is sticking on. This will feel like you are driving a stick shift car coming to a stop without pushing in on the clutch, a violent shaking and stalling. If this sounds like your problem, there is a plug that goes on the front of trans that can be unplugged to see if your problem goes away.

If it does, you can replace the TCC solenoid or leave it unhooked with a slight change in fuel mileage. See the home page on replacing your TCC solenoid yourself and explanation of how it works and why it's there.