2002 Grand Prix 3.8 cutting out???

[Dan106]

2002 Grand Prix 3.8 with 115000 miles. Sometimes when I start the car it will immediately die and If I start it again it will be just fine. The problem is while driving, at any speed or rpm the engine just cuts out (like a lack of fuel). This is for a half a second and then its fine. It will also occur while stopped in gear. Sometimes it will do it repeatedly then stop sometimes it wont do it at all. I have cleaned the Mass air flow sensor, Idle sensor, replaced plugs & wires and fuel filter. Anybody any ideas...I have been told Fuel Pump, Fuel pressure regulator, Intake is cracked. I dont want to spend all this money if someone can help me narrow it down.

[tblake]

When it stalls does the "trac off" light illuminate?

I'm leaning towards a Crank Position Sensor on this one. What do you guys think?

[Dan106]

No the Trac light stays off. The check engine light has only came on one time and the codes checked back as the problem being in the vaccum lines, Manifold absolute Pressure, Vane Air Flow sensor, or mass air flow sensor. When the vehicle cuts out, the car does not die.

[SUERED]

I have read some internet stuff suggesting that the VATS system could be a problem---but I have an older GP= 1995. The VATS is Vehicle Anti Theft System--which has the special coded key, etc.. If the computer cannot read the key resistance, it will shut down the fuel system, etc.. Just an idea for you.

[richtazz]

It would help immensely if you could post the codes you mentioned. That would eliminate a lot of guessing.

With no codes to reference and since no trac-off light is illuminating (if it was I'd agree with Tblake that it's a CKPS), I would lean toward the MAF sensor as they don't always trip a code when they first start to fail. Try unplugging it and drive that way, if it quits cutting out you found your problem. Cleaning them doesn't always work especially if you used anything besides MAF cleaner on it. Carb cleaner and even brake parts cleaner will leave residue on the MAF element essentially ruining it.

[SUERED]

Oh----the VATS system is best explained by this Utube story. Here is the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKfn7J9CeZM