occasional missing and engine stall

2008 CHEVROLET COBALT
135,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
Avatar
FIREMANJOHN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
At random times the engine will miss and lose power, then stall. It will restart and runs fine for maybe another one hundred miles more or less. No engine codes are shown. It always works fine for the mechanic. I am afraid it will stall and not restart.
Feb 24, 2018 at 8:23 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hello,

It sounds like the coil drivers are getting overloaded. Have you installed new spark plugs lately? If not this is where I would start. Here is a guide to help you see what you are in for when doing the job:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-change-spark-plugs

Please let us know what happens.

Cheers, Ken

Feb 26, 2018 at 1:23 PM
Avatar
FIREMANJOHN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I replaced the plugs and drove for about 60 miles, The engine sputtered or bucked for a second then ran fine for another few miles then repeated. After several times the tack went to zero and the engine ran poorly. After I stopped then restarted the engine the tack went back to working and the engine ran fine for several miles before starting the sputter or buck. It didn't stall or quit for the total drive.
Mar 4, 2018 at 6:36 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
When the engine stalls we need to do a fuel pressure test. BTW when the engine will not run can you hear the fuel pump in the tank running. Turn the key to the on position without starting the engine to see if you can hear it.

Please report back

Cheers, Ken
Mar 5, 2018 at 11:07 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.