1999 Pontiac Grand Am Lurching

Tiny
CHERRIEMOON
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 PONTIAC GRAND AM
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 145,000 MILES
Hello,

For about a month, off and on, my car has been lurching when I drive. What happens is, when I start driving, as long as I drive over 15 mph I'm fine. But if I'm in a crowded lot or caught in traffic moving slowly, the car starts to lurch forward like it wants to move. This only happens sometimes.

Also, if I drive to work then back home hours later it rides smoothly both trips. However, if I go somewhere then start the car again a short time later, it lurches, makes revving noises, then tries to shut off. It actually has shut off on me 3 times (once while I was at a repair shop!). No one can figure out the issue.

One mechanic suggested I needed new spark plugs, but even after he replaced them about 2 weeks ago I am having the same issue. I have also heard it could be the transmission or the throttle body needs to be cleaned. I am open to suggestions, but I cannot afford to keep paying for things that are not actually fixing the problem :( Please help.

Thanks!
Shanna
Friday, December 4th, 2009 AT 4:25 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
MMPRINCE4000
  • MECHANIC
  • 8,548 POSTS
Is your check engine light working and is it on?

Two areas I would look at are a dirty throttle body and dirty IAC (idle air control valve).

The 99 GA with a 3.4 V6 had problems with coil pack and spark plug wire failure.
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Saturday, December 5th, 2009 AT 7:29 AM
Tiny
CHERRIEMOON
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thanks so much for the reply!

The light is working, but no it isn't on.

I found an image of how to find the throttle body, but do you have a suggestion of how I can find where the IAC valve is located?

Also, the coil pack issue had been mentioned to me so we will look into that. Is there a way to test it to make sure I have the correct one replaced?

Thanks again.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/356693_throttle_body_1.jpg

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Monday, December 7th, 2009 AT 6:47 PM
Tiny
MMPRINCE4000
  • MECHANIC
  • 8,548 POSTS
IAC is on throttle body and is device that regulates or "fine tunes" idle.

No real reliable way for the DIY'er to measure coil output, most shops can measure coil output.
IAC:


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/108325_GA_IAC_2.jpg

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Tuesday, December 8th, 2009 AT 7:34 AM

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