what is wrong with my car?

1998 PONTIAC FIREBIRD
49,000 MILES
Avatar
AJOLET
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
when i turn the key on i can hear the fuel pump prime up.... i say fuel pump cause that is what i first thought it was but i am not sure. i replaced the the fuel filter. but the issue i am having is that my car just shuts off going down the highway and it will crank back up if i let it sit for 2 or three minutes. everybody keeps telling me its the fuel pump but i am not sure what is making it do this. any advice would be great i really want my car running good again.
Oct 31, 2011 at 5:43 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
FIXITMR
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,990 POSTS
only does it on highway? when it quits, a fuel pressure test will tell you if your pump is ok.
Oct 31, 2011 at 7:13 PM
Avatar
AJOLET
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
its only when the vehicle is moving its never when it is idling. i guess i am gonna test the relay and check the ground tomorrow. I am not very good at mechanic work, but i am kind of learning as i go so any advice would be most appreciated.
Nov 1, 2011 at 4:42 PM
Avatar
FIXITMR
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,990 POSTS
what motor is it?
Nov 1, 2011 at 7:36 PM
Avatar
FIXITMR
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,990 POSTS
is it sudden death quit or stuttery die out? generally spark quitting is more abrupt then fuel pump quitting.
Nov 1, 2011 at 7:50 PM
Avatar
AJOLET
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
it is a v6 and it is a sudden quit no stuttering or anything it just without warning dies and if i let it sit for a little bit it will crank again. I never know when its gonna die it just speratically happens.
Nov 1, 2011 at 10:57 PM
Avatar
FIXITMR
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,990 POSTS
crank/cam sensors are notorious for such behavior.
Nov 1, 2011 at 11:25 PM
Avatar
AJOLET
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
is it a crank sensor, cam sensor or a crank cam sensor and how can i test it?
Nov 2, 2011 at 2:57 PM
Avatar
FIXITMR
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,990 POSTS
when it happens again, check for spark.
Nov 2, 2011 at 6:33 PM
Avatar
FIXITMR
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,990 POSTS
separate sensors. you didn't say which motor you have.
Nov 2, 2011 at 6:45 PM
Avatar
AJOLET
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
it is a v6
Nov 2, 2011 at 7:09 PM
Avatar
BUDDY JENKINS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
he means which v6 there is more than one v6 that was put in the firebirds it should tell u on the top of the motor and another way to test for bad sensors is i u unhook the sensor and the car keeps runnin then that sensor is bad but if it dies the then sensor is good
Nov 11, 2011 at 10:57 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
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.