2001 GPGT Dies when driving, won't restart

[McGee87109]

Hello all and thank you in advance for any help you can give.

We have a 2001 Grand Prix V6. While driving at about 45MPH the car stalled and would not restart. Electrical systems continued to work. After pulling over, opening the hood and calling a tow truck - it started after about 10 minutes. It seemed to run just fine after that. The next day it ran normally - AM fine, Lunch Fine, leaving work fine, until the last stop at the convenience store, where it just wouldn't restart (but didn't stall). Went throught the same steps we had the day before, but after about 30 minutes, it still wouldn't start. The engine cranks fine, but it won't turn over. No warning lights had come on. After securing alternate transportation, we tried it one more time and it started. But, after about a block, it stalled and would not restart.

We had it towed to the dealership, who said they did not know what it is and that there are no codes in the car's memory. This is especially troublesome since we live 45 minutes outside of town and have little cell-phone coverage along the route - breakdowns are dangerous and it can take a long time before someone comes along to help.

Car history that may or may not contribute to this problem: It has about 90,000 miles on it. Was once driven for 20 miles w/o enough transmission fluid (quick lube guys' oops). Had a bad crank shaft position sensor about 6 months ago that caused it to stall while driving - but it always restarted then. About 3 months ago we bent the fuel line so had it replaced along with the fuel pump. It is not overheating, has plenty of gas, oil recently changed and all fluid levels are normal.

Again, thank you.

[richtazz]

I would check for spark when it's acting up. If the car has no spark, I'd suspect the crank sensor again or an ignition module. IF it does have spark, then I'd look toward the fuel system.

[Javakart31]

I would additionally ask if you've seen an overall performance change during this period. If you are typically easy on the car try driving it a bit harder and see if you feel a loss in power. Since you have a 2001 you could be experiencing a partially plugged catalytic converter. I had somewhat similar symptoms and the problem in the end was exactly that. There is a service bulletin related to this you should have received.