Hi, I have another problem. First off, someone gave me this car, so I don't know much about the history. Sometimes when I start the car it'll start up, then cut off, it'll usually stay on the second time. Also, when I'm at a stop sign or a red light, after sitting there for a while my car will just cut off. After I start it up, it'll run just fine. The last problem is when I'm driving every now and then the rpms will go up and down by a little causing the car to jump. Anyone know what's wrong with my car. Thanks in advance.

Has it had a tune up lately? Doesnt sound like anything major, maybe a clogged fuel filter, or dirty Throttle body, sticking PCV valve, spark plugs need to be changed?

When my MAF was failing, it would die right after I started it occasionally, and at some lights aswell. When the computer kicks into open loop, the RPM will jump up causing the car to move forwards.

Sounds like a sensor is on the fritz.

I'll try getting a tune up, and if that doesn't work, I'll get my computer scanned and someplace like Auto Zone. If it's the MAF how much would it cost to fix?

I was searching around, $178 was the cheapest I could find. http://www.partsamerica.com/ProductList ... Air+Sensor Just enter your zip code and car info. Your best bet would to go to NAPA and get a re-built one or go to a local junkyard, much cheaper.

Does it do this only when it's cold...or will it do it even if it has been running for a while (warmed up)?

TOC Admin
Brando

Whether it's been going for a while or just been started it does it. It does fine sometimes, but sometimes it just cuts off. The most annoying thing is when I'm driving and I'm accelerating, the car starts jumping kinda, and when I'm just coasting, the rpms will go down by like 50 and jump right back up every couple of seconds causing the car to jerk up and back.

yea...sounds like the MAF sensor to me....but get the codes read at Murray's, Autozone...or the likes.

TOC Admin
Brando

If it is the MAF sensor does that mean I need a new one or can I just clean this one. Where is the sensor located, and is it possible to replace it myself, or would it be better to let a professional install it?

cleaning it will most likely just make it worse...it is VERY easy to replace...

Unplug the harness, unscrew a couple hose clamps...remove and replace....then retighten the hose clamps and plug it back in.

TOC Admin
Brando

Ok thanks. Is this the part I need http://autozone.com/servlet/UiBroker?Us ... ONE%7C%7EB ?

No, that is not the part you need...it is the part you may need.
And call up NAPA...see what their price is on a MAF sensor for you...probably be cheaper than that. No returns on sensors/electrical items though...so get your computer scanned.

TOC Admin
Brando

Sorry, that's what I meant, still have to go get it checked out. At Napa online it's 228 plus 50 core, but I'll call them. Thanks for all the help, I'll get my car checked out in a day or two. Btw, do places like Auto Zone charge to scan?

I don't know about AutoZone, but I know Murray's doesn't charge for it.
Umm....NAPA's site sucks....definately check with your local store.

TOC Admin
Brando

Hi kingoanklebreakn, Brando, hello All,


The shop will find the cause of the problem. It's part of the process.


If it tests bad, you are going to replace it anyway so, you could try cleaning it first. Probably won't fix it, but it will prove to be good experience.
Since they are delicate and easily damaged, cleaning a good one is not recommended. The decision is dependent upon how lucky one feels at the time.

Make a bad one worse?

The same thing is done when cleaning it, except hoses should always be replaced.
If one took it out and put it back in without cleaning, loose vacuum and/or electrical connections might be closed and the problem solved.
If so, cleaning the sensor wire did not help in those cases where it was thought to be the cure.

Regards, Norm

Edit: Removed possible misinformation.