2003 Chevy Cavalier Sick of going to mechanics!

MWINTERS6782

MEMBER
2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
162,606 MILES

When the problem first started, I was at a stop light and my car started jolts back and forth. That was about a month and a half ago. I've went to several mechanics that have "fixed" the problem. Now it's getting really bad, it shakes when I go 60 and up, it jolts when I'm idling or going under 45, and now it ticks really fast and really loud! The mechanics have fixed the spark plugs, spark plug boots, changed all my filters, changed the O2 sensor, changed my oil, fixed a hose, and it still isn't fixed. They checked the codes and I can't remember exactly what it said, but it was like fuel emmisions, I think. Something like that they all said just made your check engine light come on, but really didn't do anything.

3 Replies

PEAR69

MECHANIC
1,482 POSTS

Is your check engine light on now? If it is, have your computer scanned and post back the exact codes. Autozone, or a place like that, will do this for free. You can also purchase a scan tool to do this.
The trouble code is very important to know, because it will lead us to the problem. More tests will be necessary, but first start with the trouble code. We will go from there.

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 AT 12:44 AM

MWINTERS6782

MEMBER
2 POSTS

My check engine light is on, I've had it tested, but the only thing it came back with was PO442, and they said it had nothing to do with my problems, and doesn't really matter. It's also missing on all 4 cylinders, I don't remember how much, but they were missing a lot in the little amount of time he had it hooked up.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 AT 4:03 PM

PEAR69

MECHANIC
1,482 POSTS

A p0442 code is a leak in the EVAP system. It usually means that the gas cap is either bad or needs to be reattatched. BUT it can also mean that there is an intake leak of some kind - which would make sense in your case. Listen and check for any vacuum leaks around the engine. Make sure that all the hoses are attatched -- especially all the little tiny ones. If there is a leak, you will most likely hear a hissing sound. Also, check the evap solonoid.
Check engine lights do not always tell you the whole story. They lead you down the path, but every once and a while the path has a fork in it.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 AT 12:29 AM