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1997 Mercury Sable Repair Question


Topics covered: Engine, Smell, Brakes.
Mileage: 1,600 miles.

Asked on February 4, 2013

Mercury Sable Engine Problem

Car seems to be stalling and "chugging" smells bad and brakes And steering whell will lock up and car will shut off"
Avatar Asked by Sskomra

Answer

Replied on February 4, 2013

It is normal to lose power assist to the brakes and steering when the engine stalls. Is the check engine light on? Does it smell like rotten eggs?

Tiny Answered by Jacobandnickolas (expert)
57,475 answers provided
Replied on February 4, 2013

Engine light has been on since i bought it. No rotten egg smell, smells and sounds like a motorcycle. Could it be because I'm below a half tank of gas?

Tiny Response from Sskomra
1 question asked
Replied on February 5, 2013

No, the fuel level shouldn't have an affect. It almost sounds like the catalytic converter is plugged. Have you checked that?

Tiny Answered by Jacobandnickolas (expert)
57,475 answers provided

Replied on February 5, 2013

What's that? How do I check it?

Tiny Response from Sskomra
1 question asked
Replied on February 6, 2013

The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system and is an emissions component. It is square and usually closer to the engine. Check to see if it is getting red hot when the engine warms up. If it is, chances are it is plugged. Also, you may have to have the back pressure tested to see if it is plugged.

Tiny Answered by Jacobandnickolas (expert)
57,475 answers provided