hi. i've been having the same problem with the same model (also bought used in 2003). have you had any luck or results? it's my first car and i know virtually nothing about cars or fixing them, so tech talk won't help me much. basic symptoms are mainly during the first 5 minutes of driving, the engine putts and then dies, also has trouble accelerating quickly to high speeds (like merging onto a freeway). only thing that has helped slightly is adding fuel injector cleaners every fill-up and using supreme gas. this has helped a bit, but it's getting costly. i've taken it to about 5 or 6 mechanics and none of them can tell me a thing. anyone have any luck finding out the problem? thanks.
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Originally Posted by dave365
I see a pattern on the forums. And I'm in it. :-) :-(
2000 Chevy Prizm from small dealer "fixing up" auction cars. Bought 2003
After got it, had evap system check engine light, local auto shop "repaired" the car under warranty for the small dealer, replacing solenoid. I say "repaired" because just last month another repair shop working on this issue noticed the computer said light was on but no bulb to light up. How about that?
New York State Inspection won't pass with new emission controls. Buring 1 qt oil every 1,000 miles, drive 1,000 every 2 weeks or so commuting.Tail pipe carbonized. Hissing noise under acceleration (esp up hills).
Originally 2 codes P0171 and P0420, but after a tune-up (you can imagine the fouled spark plugs) only P0171 (lean bank 1). Searched really hard for vacuum leak, including brake booster. Spray cleaned MAF sensor and all symptoms went away but came back (hesitation and lack of power with "growling" pulling out into traffic soon after start).
Mechanic and I are thinking a cracked head could cause the lean condition and cause the oil consumption, but for now I have an inspection "waiver" for 1 year.
Any comments on this before I get tempted to spend big $$$???
-Dave
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