2001 Pontiac Bonneville Car dies and or stalls

2001 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE
95,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
TRACY250
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
My 2001 Bonneville has been in the shop almost weekly all summer long and has yet to be fixed. While driving the car, the engine dies without warning. This may occur at 75 mph or 30 mph, speed does not matter. Sometimes the car will restart, other times it will not and it will require towing. The computer shows no codes.

The serpentine belt and intake manifold failed in the spring and were repaired prior to the above described symptoms. These symptoms began a couple months following previous mentioned repair.

The following repairs and/or replacement have been performed:
1. After factory remote start has been removed,
2. fuel filter has been replaced,
3. the ignition module was replaced,
4. the crank shaft sensor along with a plug wire.

The problem still persists; I've spent literally thousands! I initially suggested the engine computer or the battery but the service techs looked at me like I was crazy (I am female so why would I suggest anything!) I believe the dealership is taking advantage of me and just guessing and replacing parts at my expense!

Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated!!
Sep 2, 2008 at 1:41 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
DOCFIXIT
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 18,828 POSTS
Have fuel pressure checked needs to be 52-59psi if not could be pressure regulator. When it stalls is it like you turned it off or a slow down to stop?
Thanks for donation
let me know
Sep 2, 2008 at 2:12 PM
Avatar
TRACY250
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
The fuel pressure was checked immediately following a stall while the tech was driving it. The fuel pressure was fine. As for the stall, it just dies, no warning. You can be driving 75 mph and all of a sudden you have no power breaks or steering, etc. Sometimes the tach needle will jump around, car will chug/sputter and then die, but that is not always the case. Most times there is NO warning. It's like I turned off the car while driving.

Tech told me today after replacing the ignition modual if that didnt work, the computer was next. Not sure how he's identifying the problem, I think they're guessing!
Sep 2, 2008 at 2:24 PM
Avatar
DOCFIXIT
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 18,828 POSTS
Are they driving the car with a diagnostic scaner hooked up? If not this needs to be done they have the GM scanner. This takes a snap shot of essential components and will pin point the problem. The fact there are no codes makes PCM suspect because any shut down with key on should set some code.
Sep 2, 2008 at 2:45 PM
Avatar
TRACY250
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
He must not be driving with a diagnostic scanner hooked up because the mechanic has been driving my car off and on all summer to experience the problem himself. He said they can't diagnose the problem until it happens while in their possession. This is a GM dealership, not a small garage.

What is PCM?

I'm getting the run-around right??
Sep 2, 2008 at 2:59 PM
Avatar
DOCFIXIT
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 18,828 POSTS
PCM is computer your first choice. Could be they need to give your car to what is called a driveability tech. they are trained to diagnose problem cars.
Need to set up a meet with the service manager and with your knowledge of scanner and the drive tech. you will get some where. Also all GM dealers have the ability to hook your car up via internet to a GM engineer to help resolve the problem. So what your getting is a car out of warranty run around to an inexperienced tech.
Be firm see service manager and if you get nowhere ask to meet with the area GM service represenative. Also you can contact GM online to lodge a complaint and in owners manual there is an 800 number to call for help.
Go get em'
Sep 2, 2008 at 5:04 PM
Avatar
TRACY250
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Thank you for your help. I'm heading for the dealership at lunch today. Got my car back yesterday and now the service engine soon light is on and the car smelled funny when I pulled into the garage last night.

Thanks again!
Sep 3, 2008 at 8:29 AM
Avatar
DOCFIXIT
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 18,828 POSTS
Don't give up you will get satisfaction just stay calm and use the tools you are now armed with.
Sep 3, 2008 at 4:11 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.