My car’s engine sputters when I accelerate, stalls, and cuts off when idling (especially at a stop light), the engine surges, and idles high for a few seconds when starting the car.
What could the issue or issues be with the car?
I’m leaning toward the fuel pump but I’m not sure since I can’t get the car to a mechanic for a diagnostic test. It keeps cutting off on me before I can even get out of my parking space, so I searched and found this sight to ask people that have more knowledge than myself what they think the problem could be.
Thanks in advance for all your answers.
The first thing to do would be to pull the check engine light codes. Just about any local parts store will do this at no cost. Once you have the codes you can post them below in the comments.
What could be the issue?
There are an endless list of possibilities that could cause this issue. Without looking at it any and all suggestions are just guesses.
- Timing is off, possible broken timing chain guide/tensioner – common with this particular engine
- Blown head gasket – coolant getting into cylinder/s – Compression test for confirmation
- Ignition module breaking down
- Fuel restriction – no check engine light
- Air restriction – bad sensor/s – Check engine light codes usually will pin point
- Internal mechanical issues
- Oil Sludge Build Up – Common issue with this particular engine
Like I said, hard to tell without looking at it and running a few tests.