Engine is difficult to start?

Tiny
KEGELMTA
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 CHEVROLET IMPALA
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
Having a weird problem with an '04 Chevy Impala with a 3.8 L V6 engine. Most of the time the engine starts and runs fine. The engine usually idles smooth @ ~ 750 rpms, but once in awhile the idle will pick up to ~ 2000 rpm and then drop off to almost nothing, occasionally even stall out and then the engine is difficult to start. The problem can happen when the vehicle is sitting still or when its being driven down the road. The check engine light works and it does not come on when the engine has an ******* attack, as it were. I checked for error codes and there were no pending codes either. Any idea what might cause something like this?
Wednesday, May 18th, 2011 AT 12:50 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,814 POSTS
For erratic idling, the most common cause is a dirty throttle body and Idle Air Control valve. Have them cleaned and retest.The other item that can cause erratic idling would be insufficient coolant. These guides can help us fix the problem.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-cranks-excessively-before-starting

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/throttle-actuator-service

Please run down these guides and report back.
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Friday, March 12th, 2021 AT 9:39 AM
Tiny
KEGELMTA
  • MEMBER
  • 19 POSTS
Thanks. I will check the throttle body, Idle Air Control Valve and coolant level.
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Friday, March 12th, 2021 AT 9:39 AM
Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,814 POSTS
Keep me updated.

Have a nice day.
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Friday, March 12th, 2021 AT 9:39 AM

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