1991 Pontiac Sunbird At the end of my rope!

1991 PONTIAC SUNBIRD
104,501 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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CONVERTIBLE GIRL
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  • 2 POSTS
I have a 91 convertible Sunbird and it hesitates when I start it! The engine was completely rebuilt at 98K miles, I have recently had a tune up, new plugs & wires, and the timing set at a local franchised mechanic change. It hesitates REALLY bad when I first start the car, but then the car is fine. Could it be the oxygen sensor or the fuel filter? OR could it be the mechanic's fault? I notice it is still idling erratically. The engine light is NOT on, but I can feel the car hesitate and the idling is off. I think the mechanics blow me off because I'm a woman, but I know my car and this isn't normal!
Nov 10, 2009 at 10:14 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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First, if the fuel filter was bad, I would think it would happen all of the time. As far as a rough idle, it could be a few things. It may be a vacuum leak, timing (which you had checked) or the idle air control valve (IAC). Also, it could be caused by a bad EGR valve. Does the car run better when it is at normal operating temp? Also, has anyone ever checked fuel pump pressure?

Let me know.
Joe
Mar 8, 2010 at 1:35 PM
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CONVERTIBLE GIRL
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I think I've had about everything replaced on this car, EXCEPT the fuel filter. Just had the alternator, voltage regulator & battery replaced - the voltage reg. & alternator were original (!) It seems to be idling a little better, but when started cold, it seems to hesitate. It also seems to run slower when the heat is on. I will ask my mechanic to check what you said. Thanks!
Mar 8, 2010 at 1:42 PM
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