1997 Grand AM problems (2 of 'em)

I have a 1997 Grand Am ... 2.4L 4 cylinder Fuel Injected (but I've also been told it's carburated), about 90,400 miles. It's had the wiring harness in the steering column replaced after it was recalled (back in 2002).

I've been having two issues with it ... not sure if they're related or not, so I'll mention both. First issue ... the check engine and ETS off lights come on at the same time. The first time it happened, I had it checked out and was told it was an engine misfire code. They suggested changing the spark plug boots. This was done. Was fine for at least a year I think. In the past couple months, the lights have come on again. In Nov it happened, had it tested ... engine misfire code again. They reset the computer and the lights didn't come back on until a month or so ago, but they went off again by themselves the next day. This morning, they were on again, but were gone by this afternoon. Haven't had it tested since Nov ... not sure what is causing it.

Second issue ... my car is hard to start at times. It's usually after it's been run then shut off for about 30 min or more and then I try to restart it. It's become more frequent recently (seems to happen all the time now). It tries to turn over but just doesn't catch. Usually starts after 4 tries or so or if I hit the gas pedel at the right time. If it's been run and then shut off for only few minutes (say 10 min or less), then it will start without a problem.

The second issue is the one I'm more concerned about. It's starting to drive me crazy ... I'm afraid one of these times it won't start. I've been told it could possibly be the ignition control module, but that's just a guess. I haven't had it looked at for this problem ('cuz I don't have the money right now). Is it possible that these 2 are related ... maybe that the second is causing the first? Any ideas as to what might be causing the second? Ignition module? Any insight into this would be appreciated. I'd like to have an idea as to what the problem is when I DO take it in.

I found referance to 3 TSB's that mention long/hard starts and misfire, they are 99776304a,990604995, and 990604005a. At least one mentions clogged fuel injector. Maybe someone with better access to TSB's can get further info

I see the no start problem all over the GM forums - Luminas, Lumina vans, Grand Ams, etc. Different engines and injections. I think yours is TBI or Throttle Body Injection with injector(s) on top of what looks kinda like a carbueretor. I'm having the same problem with a Lumina van 3.1L TBI. Replaced the computer and the prom. Checked out the ignition module pretty extensively. Since the last time I played around under the hood, the problem hasn't occurred but I think it will. Pretty sure it's a wiring thing. Good luck and I'll repost if I can find the answer.

i have the engine/ets off problem also, it seems to happen more often when i start it and its cold out, also it seems to happen more frequently for some reason when i put the car on defrost and the compressor kicks in. can someone please help us out

The defrost uses recycled air just like max A/C and kicks in the compressor. Its normal , but when they get dirty or worn they start making whiiining noises and louder clicking when it engages. The bearings in the compressor clutch are what makes the noise.

Thanks for the input everyone. It's given me a lot to check on.

Another question ... how often are you supposed to replace a fuel filter? The one in my car was changed 2 years ago this month. Could that be the problem? I'm planning on getting it changed this weekend (hopefully). Just curious if anything thinks this might help my problem.

i'm not sure if your car has spark plug wires or a coil housing...like mine.the coil housing($50) is notorious for going bad on quad 4 engines.i doubt it's the fuel filter.it could be the ECM($135) or MAP sensor($25)...both can be tested at auto zone or whatever part store is near you.bad spark plugs can also be the cause of that problem.if you have a coil housing that would be my guess but i would try new plugs first.good luck on that.

ya, its time to change the fuel filter and clean the throttle body. Tranny fluid too if you havent done it in 65k miles