Strange 96 Cavalier problem

96 Cavalier 4 cyl. wont stay running long. Idles very rough when it is running. If I plug in my OBD II scanner it idles smooth, but I cannot "scan"the car for any codes. Code scanner works because I have used it on my other vehicles. Short somewhere? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

sounds like a fuel or ignition problem. maybe a misfire. Is the check engine light on

96 Cavalier 4 cyl. wont stay running long. Idles very rough when it is running. If I plug in my OBD II scanner it idles smooth, but I cannot "scan"the car for any codes. Code scanner works because I have used it on my other vehicles. Short somewhere? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

could be TPS sensor or Map Sensor

If the scanner wont communicate it sounds mor elike a bad computer. Sounds like it is running in limp home mode. If a sensor or ignition problem the scanner would still work.

I know Chevy posted a recall for Cavaliers with the ignition. Call Chevy to check and see if your ignition needs to be replaced Free of Charge.