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1997 Pontiac Sunfire Repair Question


Topics covered: Engine, Smoke, Starter.
Mileage: 240 miles.

Asked on March 21, 2013

Pontiac Sunfire Engine Problem

My 1997 sunfire is stalling, running rough as if timing is off, grayish smoke coming out of exhaust, will not accelerate, transmission is winding out really far before changing gears, black smoke, felt like i had a flat tire. Just put a new starter in it last week, new catalytic converter, has 240,000 miles. Was running great 3 days ago. Serviced regularly. Please help we can't pay for an answer. We have hack mechanics trying to help us....my boyfriend is great with cars and started restoring a 66 Nova until he went blind 15 years ago. It is still sitting. I am unemployed and really desperate for some feedback....Thank you!
Avatar Asked by lynnkathleen

Answer

Replied on March 21, 2013

You need to start out by having the computer codes read and post the code numbers here.

Tiny Answered by Wrenchtech (expert)
14,749 answers provided
Replied on March 21, 2013

Thank you....we have to find someone to read the codes. And then it will be possible to give a diagnosis of some kind??

Tiny Response from lynnkathleen
1 question asked
Replied on March 22, 2013

Most nationally recognized parts stores will scan the computer for free. If there is an Auto Zone, Advance auto... near, contact them.

Tiny Answered by Jacobandnickolas (expert)
57,318 answers provided

Replied on March 25, 2013

We went to Advance and the only code was PO300...which the guy said was meant the car was just misfiring, that's all. Thanks for your help. I wish we could narrow it down.

Tiny Response from lynnkathleen
1 question asked
Replied on March 25, 2013

Yes, that does leave a lot of unknown things. Random misfire can be caused by any number of things.
What engine does this have?

Tiny Answered by Wrenchtech (expert)
14,749 answers provided
Replied on March 25, 2013

4 cyl 2.4 quad 4.....thanks :)

Tiny Response from lynnkathleen
1 question asked

Replied on March 25, 2013

OK, that's what i suspected/ This engine has a very common problem. The whit coil housing cracks internally causing misfiring. Make sure the plugs are in good shape and have no cracks in the porcelain, then I would replace the coil housing. It cost about $40.

Tiny Answered by Wrenchtech (expert)
14,749 answers provided
Replied on March 25, 2013

It's #7 in the picture

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt106/Desi501/Quad4ignition-1.gif

Tiny Answered by Wrenchtech (expert)
14,749 answers provided
Replied on March 25, 2013

Thank you..... is that also the reason for the other problems because a friend of ours said it was the coil also and I don't trust that guy.. lol, but thank you!

Tiny Response from lynnkathleen
1 question asked
Replied on March 25, 2013

Also, how difficult is this to install? My boyfriend is blind but with an extra set of eyes he has built and dropped a few engines in his Nova, installed the starter, and other things...Thanks again

Tiny Response from lynnkathleen
1 question asked