Smells of fuel making loud engine nose

GINAM75

MEMBER
2005 PONTIAC SUNFIRE
115,000 MILES

My car started running rough at stops but would quiet down if I turned the wheels. It smells like fuel when I drive it. I popped the hood to listen and the noise is coming from where the spark plugs go I think. Now it feels like the steering is loose so I cant drive it safely and the noise from the engine is louder. I'm hoping it is an easy fix so I can do it myself with limited funds.

Friday, November 15th, 2013 AT 1:05 PM

3 Replies

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

So the noise is coming from the spark plug holes?As far as the steering were going to have to check tie rods ball joints etc?

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Friday, November 15th, 2013 AT 2:53 PM

GINAM75

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I have a casing around my spark plugs, the sound seems to be coming from in there. How do I check the tie rods and ball joints, can I look at that externally (without taking things apart?)

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Friday, November 15th, 2013 AT 3:14 PM

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

To check the ball joints put the weight of the car on the lower control arm th3n grab the wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock position then see if there is any moment? If there is see if the play is in the ball joint. To check the tie rods with the car on the ground grab the tie rods then have someone move the steering wheel from 12 to 9 then 3 o'clock back and fourth rapidly while feeling for for play in the tie rods.

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Friday, November 15th, 2013 AT 4:11 PM