I am the proud(?) owner of a 1991 Cavalier VL 2.2, that has made me quite frustrated as of late. My car recently acquired a stalling problem which caused me to replace the IAC, TPS, spark plugs, plug wires, air filter, and fuel filter. After the problem persisted, I changed the ignition control module. That seemed to be the end of my stalling problem...enter hesitation problem.
I decided to celebrate the rebirth of my car by taking it on a short 150km drive to another city. Once I had been driving at highway speeds (110kms/hour) for about 15 minutes, the car started to hesitate and buck when the engine was under any noticeable load. I also noticed that the engine seemed to be idling a little higher than what I was used to. This may be unrelated, but the 'shift' light also flashes on and off while the engine is bucking even while coasting in neutral. As soon as this problem was noticed, the car was turned around for a long shameful drive home.
All the way home my car continued to hesitate, buck and jerk me around in my car. Once I was back in the city, the problem persisted at lower speeds (50-60kms/hour). It never did stall on the way home which was a small victory in my mind. I was still not impressed to say the least!
I was thinking that the problem may be the fuel pump. Is there any way of testing the fuel pump while in the tank? I would rather not change it if the problem is something else. I have yet to see the 'Check Engine' light come on (unless while starting the car - the light does work). Tomorrow, I plan on replacing the O2 sensor, and checking the gap on the new spark plugs I have installed.
Does anybody have any other ideas as to what may be the culprit? Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Steve
