Engine shuts off while driving

Hi,

Does the check engine light stay on when the engine is running? If it does, you should have the computer scanned to see if there are diagnostic trouble codes related to the problem.

Here is a link showing how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Also, if it's possible, record what the vehicle is doing so I can hear it. It may help me with diagnosing the issue. In addition, let me know what the fuel pressure was when you checked. What you described sounds like a fuel issue, but I can't be certain.

If the check engine light is on, it's important that we retrieve codes. They will likely send us in the right direction.

Let me know.
Joe

Hi,

Let me know what fuel pressure you found. Also, once I see the video and hear it stall, it may lead me in a different direction.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

That's higher than it should be. Here are the specs:

2000 Chevrolet Cavalier L4-2.2L VIN 4
Fuel Pump Pressure
Vehicle Powertrain Management Fuel Delivery and Air Induction Fuel Pump Fuel Pressure Specifications Pressure, Vacuum and Temperature Fuel Pump Pressure
FUEL PUMP PRESSURE

Fuel Pressure

Ignition Switch ON, Fuel Pump Running 41-47 psi

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I need you to confirm the pressure. And I agree about the Schrader valve. Anything to make it a bit more difficult.

If pressure is too high, it may be causing the issue.

Let me know what you find. Also, if you have a live data scan tool, let me know what the short term fuel trims are.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

I watched the videos. I have to be honest. I think the fuel pump is bad (weak) or you have a plugged catalytic converter. If you can, let me know both the short term and long term fuel trims are (live data from scan tool).

Also, try removing the oxygen sensor before the catalytic converter to see if that makes a difference. If the converter is plugged, that little extra room for exhaust will make a difference.

Let me know.
Joe

I listened to it at startup, and it seemed to have a misfire. Can you check what the engine coolant temperature sensor is sending as far as temperature signal? Do that when it's cold.

Let me know if you can get that info.

Joe

Hi,

You are always welcome here. No need to apologize for reviving an old thread.

Have you checked the engine coolant temp sensor? If you haven't, please try that. If you find it's bad, here are the directions for replacing it.

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2000 Chevrolet Cavalier L4-2.2L VIN 4
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Replacement
Vehicle Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Computers and Control Systems Coolant Temperature Sensor/Switch (For Computer) Service and Repair Procedures Repair Instructions Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Replacement
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE (ECT) SENSOR REPLACEMENT

pic 1

REMOVAL PROCEDURE

NOTE: Use care when handling the coolant sensor. Damage to the coolant sensor will affect the operation of the fuel control system.

1. Turn OFF the ignition.
2. Drain the coolant system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System in Cooling System.
3. Disconnect the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor electrical connector.
4. Carefully back out the ECT sensor.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
1. Coat the threads only with sealer P/N 9985253 or an equivalent.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

2. Install the ECT sensor.

Tighten
Tighten the ECT sensor to 25 N.M (18.5 lb ft).

3. Connect the ECT sensor electrical connector.
4. Refill the engine coolant system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System in Cooling System.

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Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

There should be a reading on the scanner which identifies engine coolant temperature (ECT). That reading should parallel what the outside temperature is (if the engine is cold) and will increase when the engine warms up.

Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

No, that is not normal. Unless it was -40° outside the entire time, the sensor is stuck or failed. This temp is the coldest it will identify. The Intake Air Temperature changes value based on the temperature of the air entering the engine, similar to the ECT sensor. Low temperature produces a high resistance (100,000 ohms at -40°C (-40°F) while high temperature causes low resistance (70 ohms at 130°C (266°F).

I would suggest replacing it or at least confirm there is no problem with the connector. If there is a weak connection or corrosion, that can cause higher resistance, so check that first. If everything seems good, the sensor is the likely issue.

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Here are the directions for replacement. The attached pic correlates with the directions.

2000 Chevrolet Cavalier L4-2.2L VIN 4
IAT Sensor Replacement
Vehicle Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Powertrain Management Sensors and Switches - Computers and Control Systems Air Temperature Sensor ( Ambient / Intake ) Service and Repair Procedures Repair Instructions IAT Sensor Replacement
IAT SENSOR REPLACEMENT

pic 1

REMOVAL PROCEDURE
1. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
2. Disconnect the IAT sensor electrical connector.
3. Carefully remove the IAT sensor from the air cleaner outlet duct.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
1. Install the IAT sensor into the air cleaner outlet duct.
2. Connect the IAT sensor electrical connector.

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Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe