Engine light on, shut off while driving 50 MPH

MEMOE

MEMBER
1991 OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS
3.1L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
79,000 MILES

While driving my car stalled out at 50 MPH. Was able to restart it but stalled again. This time it did not restart. Could smell a lot of gas like it was flooding out when it did start as soon as I put it into drive it shut down again. Finally got it to stay running in all drives. I left it in idle gear running rough at 5-10 RPMs for about 10 minutes then sputtered and shut off. Also, the engine light is on. I don't have a code reader nor a lot of money as I am disabled and elderly any advice would be welcomed and much appreciated.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

Although you don't have a scanner, you can retrieve codes. This vehicle has an OBD1 computer system. All you need to get codes is a short jumper wire or even a paper clip.

Follow the directions in the link below. It explains what to do.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/buick-cadillac-chevy-gmc-oldsmobile-pontiac-gm-1983-1995-obd1-code-definitions-and-retrieval-method

I have a feeling the crankshaft position sensor may have failed. Take a look through this link and let me know if it seems to mirror what you experience.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

The first thing to check would be ignition spark. If the sensor has failed, you will lose spark. Here is a link that shows how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe