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Shuts off...


fespinal4444
05-04-2007, 11:28 AM
I have an automatic '99 Chevy Cavalier.
It runs great, but I've noticed it shuts off on me when it's hot outside, it runs well during the Winter months. I don't know if it overheats or not because everything seems fine; There are no leaks, coolant is 50/50 and on level and the temperature gauge needle doesn't go in the red zone.
The first thing that happens is that when I step on the gas while driving, it takes a little bit longer than usual to respond, then when the car is idle and I press on the gas my engine lights come on and then everything shuts off.
This is very dangerous because it almost died on me while turning on a big intersection.
I've heard a million posibilities: Adjust idle, Thermostat, Vacuum leak, Vapor lock, Wrong oil etc...
What do you think it is? Help please...

shakewell
05-05-2007, 10:32 PM
As simple as it may sound, the fuel filter could be the culprit. That's what happened to me - and my filter was only 10,000mi old. I had the same symptoms - slight hesitation when accelerating, but when I went to accelerate from a stop at times the car would simply die. I could restart it, but whenever I tried to give it gas, the thing would die.

I tried nearly everything to fix it. Turned out to be the stupid filter and I only replaced it because I was testing the fuel pressure at the filter fitting and figured I might as well replace the thing it if I had it apart.

Hopefully that helps.

Jmrec100
05-05-2007, 11:50 PM
I suggest just change the fuel filter too. Easy problem solved if that's it. Simple think to restrict the fuel flow if its clogged.

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