94 Century timing problems

[genie86333]

I have a 94 Century 3100 (3.1L), automatic transmission, w/about 175,000 miles.

About 5 weeks ago it started occasionally missing (like once every few days.) I noticed it usually did it when it (the car, not the weather) was somewhat warm (not overheating or anything, but after it had run about 10 minutes or so.)

A couple of weeks later, it started running really rough for a bit a minute or so (but stayed running) then ran fine again for several miles. I'd almost made it home when it just died. I was able to get it to start again twice for a family member to listen to but it would die as soon as you tried to put it into gear. Now it wont start at all, althought it sure tries.

It's definitely a timing problem. They're going to check the timing chain but are thinking it's probably a sensor/module. Anyone have any suggestions on what it could be?

[richtazz]

Welcome to AF

Are you low on coolant or does the oil look milky/cloudy by chance? Timing chain issues are rare on the engine in your car, even at 175k miles. The GM 3.1 is known for having intake leak issues which can cause major engine problems. You may have blown a head gasket (due to low coolant causing hot spots even though the guage never reads hot) or engine bearing damage (due to the coolant getting in the oil). I would suggest a compression test and cooling system pressure test before I bothered taking the engine down to check a timing chain which more likely than not isn't bad.

If the coolant isn't low, then I would check for spark. You may have a bad ignition module or a bad coil pack causing one or more cylinders to misfire.

[genie86333]

Thanks for the input. I'll check both of those things!