Q: The car bogs down and stalls; and has a rough idle until the i tap the upper plenum.

asked by on February 15, 2017

Hi, my name is Joe. I have a 94 Firebird with a 3.4L. The car was sat up before I got it, and after I replaced the fuel pump, injectors, spark plugs and wires, it ran great for a couple of days. Then I replaced the injectors again (advised by another mechanic) and it ran fine for a few hours. After testing, we replaced the PCM because the injectors seem to be fine. Also replaced the TPI Sensor, and a couple of other sensors, but it keeps bogging down and stalling. It will bog and die when accelerated. I noticed if I lightly tap the upper plenum with a mallet, and we straighten out for a little while. My number is 205-807-8781

My car has 46000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Car is stalling Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

If the problems started after you replaced the PCM, and the first PCM did not have any known issues, you might want to begin your diagnostic by re-installing the original PCM. Seems like you did a lot of work on the fuel system so be sure to replace the fuel filter in case the filter is plugged. If manipulating the plenum improved the idle, that would suggest a vacuum leak and you should check for vacuum leaks throughout including the EGR system, PCV system and so forth. Check the base ignition timing and ignition advance function (against Factory Service Manual specifications). Check for a restricted exhaust or a plugged catalytic converter (can check exhaust back pressure through port or infer backpressure by checking to see if intake vacuum is normal). After those obvious possibilities, an automotive scope would be used to look at secondary firing patterns in all cylinders to determine if the issue is fuel and/or ignition related and if so, which cylinders. If you want this stalling diagnosed by a certified Mechanic, dispatched by YourMechanic right to your location, please request an engine stalling diagnostic and the responding certified mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How Does the Anti-Pinch Feature Work on My Power Windows?
Basically, anti-pinch works by measuring the amount of electrical current the motor uses that drives the glass up and down. Like practically everything on a modern car, the windows are controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-your-ecu-uses-sensor-data). When you...
What tips should I know about using the air conditioner?
While your air conditioner is pretty simple to operate, there are a few things that you’ll need to know in order to ensure that you’re using it correctly and to avoid using it incorrectly. Here’s what you should know: If...
How do I use the heated mirrors?
Not all vehicle vehicles will be equipped with heated outside rearview mirrors. If yours is, this can be a handy tool to provide extra visibility in the colder months. Your side and rearview mirrors will automatically heat when the rear...
Faulty speed sensor causing car to stall.
If you are referring to P0320 - Ignition/Distributor Engine Speed Input Circuit code, then the most common cause of the problem is the crankshaft position sensor. This sensor controls ignition timing of the engine and when it fails the computer...
Why are my wipers going off when I turn the turn signals on?
Hi, thanks for writing in. It appears that there may be an issue within the column. The controls for the wipers and turn signals are separate units, but are connected by a series of wiring within the column, and there...
Hesitation during acceleration - 2013 Suzuki Swift
Hello. The ECO mode is a feature which changes shift point to improve fuel economy. It should not cause a delay in the vehicle taking off, though. I would first get the vehicle in the air and see if any...
Engine is misfiring and Check Engine Light is on - 2002 Toyota Tacoma
Hello. A flashing Check Engine Light is a sign that the computer has detected an issue that could potentially damage the vehicle's emissions components. I would recommend scanning the trouble codes when the light is flashing in order to determine...
I'm looking to purchase a 2013 Acura TL from an Acura dealership in Wisconsin, but I wanted to make sure rust wasn't an issue.
Rami: The areas of immediate concern when it comes to rust are brake and fuel lines and suspension or frame components. Rust on exterior sheet metal (body panels) is somewhat "cosmetic" although of course I understand that nobody wants to...
Good evening I have a 2011 bmw 335d, I just got the oil changed and now my service engine light is on. The car runs and drives gre
There are hundreds of different diagnostic trouble codes than could potentially cause the check engine light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-does-the-check-engine-warning-light-mean-by-spencer-cates) to illuminate. Sometimes the issue is as simple as an EVAP system malfunction such as a loose or defective gas cap. If you...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor
Common signs of a faulty crankshaft position sensor include issues starting the vehicle, intermittent stalling, and the Check Engine Light coming on.
How to Keep Your Car From Stalling
When When driving a car, we expect it to get us from point A to point B without any issues. It can become unnerving to drive if your car stalls randomly when coming to a stop, whether it is at...
How to Buy a Classic Pontiac
Whether you want to buy a classic Pontiac for yourself or as a gift, here are some tips on buying one for a great value.