'97 Monte Carlo z-34 Keeps dying

[kibbles]

Help! My daughter's car has had all the infamous 3.4 hard starts, etc, but here's a new one. The car starts great, but when it's warmed up, it won't run, and dies when slowing down. It's virtually undrivable now, and nobody seems to be able to figure this one out. The throttle position sensor was changed, and that didn't do it. It did this last month, and received a complete tune-up, but apparantly that didn't fix it, because the problem's back. Any advice appreciated. Thanks!
Judi

[miles28]

having some of those same problems w/my 97 LS

[RABarrett]

My suggestion is a computer scan by a competent tech. I have seen these problems caused by a computer's inability to properly interpret sensor readings. To properly diagnose, it became necessary to constantly monitor the computer's readings, and when the engine refused to start, carefully check the scan tool's readings. My diagnoseis in these cases was the ECM since the readings from the computer did not match the MAP sensor readings. The MAP operated correctly, but the computer did not properly interprtet the results, cutting fuel way back... The only correct way to properly diagnose these issues is to understand the way the system works and take the time to properly analyze what you see. Anything less is guessing and not worth paying for.Food for thought. Ray

[jacinc2]

Although I am selling a 1999 Monte Carlo for parts that you can use, I suggest to check this first.

I had this same problem with three different cars already. Find out where the computer is located on your car first before taking it anywhere and look to see if any diodes are burnt out on the main board of the computer. You can tell when they are burnt because you will see burnt marks on the board where the components are sodered on.

This problem happens on cars after they warm up or are running for a while because they melt the diodes when they are hot and then bind together again when they cool down.


John 352-454-1659 (anytime)

[sillyfaceguy]

Judi,

FYI, the computer is under the hood, on the passenger side front. To get to it, you will have to remove that black brace going from the strut tower to the front frame, then remove the clip holding that fuse box in place. Move the fuse box aside, and you will see the computer, it's in a black case with 4 big bundles of wire going into it. You will then need to use a 10mm wrench I believe to loosen the 2 or 3 nuts holding the computer in place. There's an access panel on that black case to look inside and access the main chip. If you need to inspect the whole circuit board, the whol case will need to be opened. THis might be more information than you ever wanted, if you're not handy with the tools. It's not a real hard job, but not the simplest if you're not experienced with underhood work. Hope this helps.

[bwtracing]

This could be a temp sending unit, that particular engine has an automatic shut off, if it is sending too high of a temperature to the ECM theECM automatically shut the car down, but i do believe it is the ECM like everyone says, if that isnt check the temp sensor

[wpbharry]

This is a long time after the original request, but I just joined recently. Purchased a '96 Z-34 new in Nov. '95; was great for 18 mos. Then all went down the drain. Car started dying either while slowing down or on the fly (ahem). After the 3rd time, which nearly caused a major accident, I traded it in with only 12K on the clock in Aug. '98.

And, the alternator went 3 times in 12K miles, the drive belt went, and the rear discs (which were new on the '96s) were nothing but trouble.

First 2 times the car needed a new computer, which caused it to be in the shop for a week each time, as they had to reset the airbag modules both times, which I guess is a MAJOR pain.

Third time, they finally fessed up and said that the (#2 as I recall) cam was sticking and I'd likely need a new engine shortly. Drove the car from the service area right to the showroom, whereupon it died again!!

But, last time I checked on CarFax, it was in Long Island, NY (a ways from FL), with over 50K on it. I'm convinced to this day that it was resold out-of-state after an accident.

Hope this info is still worthwhile.

P.S. I then bought a new '98 Malibu LS, which has been better, but by no means a bundle of joy.

[guitarplaya84]

i dunno if you have already tried this but check with your local gm dealer and check for any recals.

[Code Red Monte]

man you all have alot of problem with your rides ive had mine since it had only 12 miles on it and ive beat the crap out of it and at 143k later i still dont have a hole lot wrong. it sounds like it might be a feul pump or a filter. the comp might need to be flashed