Why does my engine keep dying?

Question

I have '99 Chev. Cavalier, and I just got the spark plugs fixed and fuel injectors replaced hoping it would solve some of the problem that has yet to be fixed.

The engine has been dying at stoplights, recently while turning right and again while driving in a parking lot. Wal-Mart recommended changing the battery, but the battery is still running while the engine is not. The two lights that come on when the engine dies are the battery and oil lights.

The engine is rather shaky at times. The needle on the RPM meter shakes at stoplights sometimes. I feel like I have to floor it in order to get up to 50mph in a timely fashion. The car shakes a whole lot if I consistently go a certain speed ( sometimes 25mph, or 40mph).

The check engine light has been on for a few years for a misfiring in piston #1 and a cooling fan primary circuit condition.

Answer 1

A misfire can cause shaking.



Most likely you need to clean your air system. The idle air controller being cleaned might stop it from stalling at a stop. Your catalytic converter may be done as well. If your battery light is on, then you should probably change it or have your alternator checked out.

Answer 2

Brad is pretty much dead on right. Your IDLE AIR CONTROL valve is dirty, and requires cleaning. For best results, locate an AMSOIL dealership and buy a can of their FOAMING CLEANER. Use it in and around your throttle body, followed with a Gun-out chaser. Do this with engine off first, and then with engine on. Believe me, there is nothing wrong with your battery! Wal-mart is not the place to ask questions about this. Replacing the fuel injectors was a waste of money. Using AC Delco plugs is also a waste of money. Use either Bosch platinum or Iridium plugs. They chemically react with fuel and improve power and burning.

Answer 3

Yeah, what Brad said. Also why is the misfire code coming up....could be that giant 4 cylinder coil/module on the top of your engine. Most idle air controllers (IAC) do not clean up easy...better just to get a new one (try cleaning it with "Cleens" from AC delco first tho)...also it should have an IAC code if it's stalling because of a slow sticking IAC.