2002 Oldsmobile Alero Cars not starting

LTINSLEY22

MEMBER
2002 OLDSMOBILE ALERO
166,350 MILES

Recently I started having car trouble. My car has moments when it doesn't start. Some days it will cut on just fine, but other days I have to sit for at least 30 min for at to start. I have a car md the code reads p0420. I did some research and I see that it has something to do with the Catalytic Converter, which is what I don't understand because I have a straight pipe. I'm up to date on all my oil changes, I just got a tune up. I'm just trying to understand whats wrong. I take it to the mechanic and it starts for them, but after driving it back and fourth from school and work, I'm always afraid to cut it off, because I want it to come back on. I'm sure its something minor. It hasn't started in 4days. Please help.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

By federal law, it should have a catalytic converter. You do realize, without one can be throwing different problems with the engine. Since it won't start, have you checked to see if it is getting spark and fuel to the engine?

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Sunday, October 13th, 2013 AT 7:34 PM

LTINSLEY

MEMBER
1 POST

No I haven't, I taking it to a mechanic tomorrow. I just wanna know, what I should tell them to look for. I'm a female, and I always end up spending more than I have to. I just wanna go in, with some idea of what the problem is

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Sunday, October 13th, 2013 AT 7:43 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

I have to say, it could be many things. The straight pipe doesn't help. The computer isn't getting signals from the oxygen sensors to function properly. If you can, check to see if there is spark and fuel to the engine. Once I know if one is missing, I will be able to direct you better. Otherwise, it is a guessing game at this point.

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Sunday, October 13th, 2013 AT 7:52 PM