Questions and Answers

Stalling Corsica Q. I have a problem with my 1992 Corsica, 100,000 miles, automatic, air, 3.1 liter 6 cylinder engine. The check engine light would go on and off, setting a knock code, which I fixed by replacing the knock sensor. It would also stall occasionally. Prior to changing the knock sensor I thought the problems were related. But the stalling has persisted.

I have been reading you advice to others concerning stalling and found some help, but also have more questions.

The car normally stalls after coming off the interstate and stopping. While slowing the engine runs very rough and you know it is going to stall. Just before it does the engine surges then dies. It may take 4 to 5 minutes before it restarts, then idles and runs just fine.

Having as many miles as it has I thought I would start with replacing the ignition control module and coil packs. This did smooth the engine, although it was pretty smooth before. It still stalled. Changed the throttle position sensor, still stalled. Changed the idle air control motor, still stalls.

Today the wife went to start the car, no go. Think the real problem may be showing its self. I read in some of you answers holding the throttle only adjust the air to the engine. But holding the pedal down a little is the only way it will start. If you hold it down it starts right away, and revs just fine. As soon as you let off it dies. I can hear the fuel pump come on when the key is turned and I changed the fuel pump relay. Sitting hear reading you other answers I don't know if I should pursue the fuel supply or the ECM or something else? HELP!!!!!!

Thanks for taking the time to consider this problem and for your wonderful database.
John

A. You have a lot of possibilities here. It may have an ECM starting to go bad. It's behind the glove box and to the right of it. When it starts acting up, see if it will idle for you. Then reach in there and give it a rap with a screwdriver handle. If it shuts off or runs better you have found the problem. If you can't isolate it you will need to determine if it won't start because of no fuel or no spark. There is a pressure tap on the fuel rail under the hood. You should have about 40 psi.

If you have pressure then you need to test for spark. There are testers out there that can be installed in line with a plug wire. Just watch the light for blinking. If you still have a spark problem you may need a crank sensor which is on rear of block near the oil pan rail. Also, if it runs all the time with the gas pedal ½ way down then you may have a idle air control motor stuck closed. It is bolted to the throttle body, four wire plug. Cleaning it may help. It also needs to be "taught" it's position by idling in drive until fan comes on, shut off for 10 seconds and repeating again.

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