Questions and Answers

Chevy Lumina Running Bad Q. Hey Vince; Got a problem with a Chevy Lumina 6 cylinder 3.1 with automatic transmission, 84,000 miles. The cars idle speed comes and goes especially when cold. It falls on its face when going up hills or at low speeds, but does fine at higher speeds or RPMs. I had a diagnostic ran and I got a P0401 (exhaust gas recirculation, insufficient flow detected) the guy told me this is usually a clogged EGR and cleaning it should take care of it.

I took off the EGR and found little carbon. Reinstalled and had the same problem. This problem at first caused a steady light and now when going up a hill or low speeds this light begins to blink. (service engine soon) I have also try to replace it with a EGR valve I got from the junk yard, twice and still no luck. I just want to make sure this is the problem before buying a new as they run upward to $300.00 for this car. And can this cause any damage if let go to long. Any advice?

Thanks,
Steve from WV

A. You don't mention what year this is. A blinking check engine light means a catalyst damaging misfire is occurring. Sounds like a bad plug or wire, this would explain the lack of power. As for the code, there have been a couple of bulletins out for a reprogramming of the PCM to widen the tolerance window for running the self test internally.