2000 Grand Am 3.4L randomly dies

2000 Grand Am GT - 3.4L - 184,000 miles.

3 weeks ago, it stalled on the highway while I was going 70 mph.
Pulled over. Wouldn't start. Then 5 minutes later, it started right up.
Hadn't had another problem until yesterday. Stalled after 45 min.
Wouldn't start after 20 minutes. Had it towed. Right after it was off the tow truck, I tried it & it started right up. Once again it stalled today, but started up after a few minutes. No check engine light, no warning. It just stops running. It has spark, so I assume it's fuel related. Pump or regulator maybe??

I want to find out the best steps for me to take in order to diagnose the issue based on what's most likely at fault. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!:biggrin:

was there any work done to your car recently?

Check for pending codes, inspect all wires and connectors going to and connecting to ICM especially connector at ICM with violet and yellow wires that is for CPS make sure wires are in good shape since they can touch hot engine parts. Inspect ECT wires and test ECT. Check inginion swithc for signs of melting. Battey cables should be tight and clean. Also check your engine oil level.

Does it "sputter" and then die, or does it stop all of a sudden like when you shut the key off?

Check fuel pressure, it should be 41-47 psi with the key "on" engine off.
If you have never changed your fuel filter replace that if your fuel pressure is low, its a highly neglected area.

If it stalls or wont start again, check for spark immediately! If you have no spark test the crank shaft position sensor (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=663352).

If thats good get your ICM/coils tested.

2000 Grand Am GT - 3.4L - 184,000 miles.

3 weeks ago, it stalled on the highway while I was going 70 mph.
Pulled over. Wouldn't start. Then 5 minutes later, it started right up.
Hadn't had another problem until yesterday. Stalled after 45 min.
Wouldn't start after 20 minutes. Had it towed. Right after it was off the tow truck, I tried it & it started right up. Once again it stalled today, but started up after a few minutes. No check engine light, no warning. It just stops running. It has spark, so I assume it's fuel related. Pump or regulator maybe??

I want to find out the best steps for me to take in order to diagnose the issue based on what's most likely at fault. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!:biggrin:

did you check your owners manual for a reset button for the fuel line?

have you checked in your owners manual to see if there is a reset button for the fuel line? i understand that sometimes a vehicle has a shut-off mechanism so the vehicle will shut off if jarred suddenly or something like that.....

thier is no reset for the fuel. :nono:
you are thinking of the anti roll over mechanism which shuts off fuel if your car is turned upside down. i dont think his was upside down..

Had the same problem with my wifes 2001 GA SE. When she was driving on the parkway the thing would just shut down. She would pull over and 2 min later it would start , sometimes longer but would eventually go. We had it to the mechanic about 5 times -NOTHING. One time he pulled down on the harness that connects at the fuel tank. When he did this the car would shut off. Basically shutting down the fuel pump. He cleaned it but again had the problem. So we bought a new harness --Think around $120 Havn't had that problem again. We also ran into the fuel filter getting clogged up fats but the harness was the main problem.

I have had SOOOOOOOO many problems with this car I ptobably woulda paid to get another and light this one on fire. Passlock, manifolds, Gas smell, Etc.
This may not be your problem but have it put on a lift or if you like at home and jiggle the harness. I'm pretty sure there are 2 there but only one affected it.

Most part stores sell the wire harness fix for the fuel pump harness short.
Its $20 its only about a 18-24" of wires.

I think we/the garage got the harness from GM not sure though. The fix cost us the $120. so the cost of the harness I probably knew at the time.Didn't know there was a FIX to a harness short on the GAs .everyday something new.