car stalled out in huge puddle - Crankshaft sensor?

2002 CHEVROLET MALIBU
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LANAB
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
during tropical storm fay i was trying to make my way home, and ended up going through a puddle that was way too big for me to be going through in the first place. the car will run but it will not idle now, i can keep my foot on the gas and that will keep the car running, but if i let off the gas it dies out. what could this be, my father and boyfriend were thinking the crankshaft sensor? any help or thoughts on this would be helpful, and truly appreciated
!!
Aug 25, 2008 at 6:03 AM
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SQM
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

First you need to change the oil and filter of the vehicle.
Since you have stalled in water, you possibly have water in the engine. It likely got sucked thru the intake. By changing the oil you will be able to make sure there is no water in the engine.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-change-engine-oil-and-filter

Also it will be a good idea to clean out the Mass air flow sensor and the throttle body.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/mass-air-flow-service

Also you need to check for any codes. This can narrow down the issue:

https://youtu.be/vMwTzURWXmk

Please let me know of any questions.

Thank you.
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Jul 29, 2021 at 12:35 AM
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