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1998 Malibu short runtime
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wdarty
New User
Mar 11, 2009, 12:13 PM
Post #1 of 4
(1511 views)
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1998 Malibu short runtime
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1998 Chevy Malibu
2.4L 4-cylinder engine
I've had a problem with this vehicle for several years that has gotten progressively worse.
Initially, the vehicle would operate for about 9-10 minutes (from cold start), then the engine would cut out (if highway driving, it would try to cut out, but momentum would cause it to resume); in street operation, it would cut out, and the driver had to restart it. This would continue intermittently; when malfunctioning, I noted that the transmission shift points were raised (higher engine RPMs to initiate a shift). At other times, the car would operate normally.
About a year ago, it refused to start for several days. I had it towed to my local mechanic, who couldn't get it started. He replaced the entire fuel system (its a single unit?) and got the vehicle operating. Immediately after getting back, the erratic behavior resumed. I took it back, he checked the diagnostic codes when it failed, and replaced the throttle position sensor (the first error that appeared). This didn't fix it. At this point he threw up his hands and suggested it was a problem that required dealer service center expertise. Having blown a bunch of bucks on it already, its been sitting in front of my house since then.
The problem has deteriorated to the point where the vehicle can only be operated for a few minutes before it cuts out, then will not start again for several hours. Starting cold and idling, it will run for about 3 to 4-1/2 minutes before cutting off. If I start it cold and idle it at higher RPMs (say, 1200 RPM), it will operate longer (5-1/2 to 11 minutes). When it has cut off, it cannot be restarted (it will crank) for at least 2 hours. Today it is back to not starting at all.
I have disabled the Passlock system to eliminate its contribution to the problem.
I was using mass transit to commute to work, but now am unemployed and need to get this POS working. Can anyone provide some ideas for resolving this?
TIA
Wayne
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Loren Champlain Sr
Veteran
/ Moderator
Mar 11, 2009, 6:10 PM
Post #2 of 4
(1507 views)
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Re: 1998 Malibu short runtime
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Wayne; We need to find out if it is lacking fuel or spark when the problem occurs. The very first thing that comes to mind that I'd look at is the crank sensor. But, at this point, is strictly a guess. They very seldom will set a trouble code. As far as the previous repairs, in my humble opinion, the mechanic should be continuing testing until he finds the problem. The "oh, well" answer doesn't cut it. Obviously, the fuel pump didn't correct the issue. What was the reason the pump was replaced? Low fuel pressure? Get the specs that he came up with and post them.
Loren
SW Washington
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wdarty
New User
Jul 21, 2009, 4:46 AM
Post #3 of 4
(1437 views)
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Re: 1998 Malibu short runtime
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The problem was determined to be the crank position sensor. Replaced, car works great now. Thanks for the tip.
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Jul 21, 2009, 5:35 AM
Post #4 of 4
(1430 views)
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Re: 1998 Malibu short runtime
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Wayne - thanks for coming back with the fix - it can likely help others,
T
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