Car will start up and just idle. Tried driving it around the block and barely made it. What causes this and how do I fix it?
First off, any existing computer codes should be pulled with the use of a scan tool. Next, post any and all existing codes in the comments. We can use these trouble codes to help determine what is going on.
Reset Limp Mode
One thing you will want to try is disconnecting the battery for a few minutes. Then reconnect the battery and restart the engine. This should reset the computer if it just happened to be a glitch.
Limp Mode
Under certain conditions, the fueling system will turn OFF the fuel injectors for a period of time. This is referred to as fuel cut-off. Fuel cut-off is used in order to improve traction, save fuel, improve emissions, and protect the vehicle under certain extreme or abusive conditions.
In case of a major internal problem, the ECM may be able to use a back-up fuel strategy for limp mode that will run the engine until service can be performed.