Catalytic converter?

ADWASM

MEMBER
PONTIAC GRAND AM

I have a 2002 Grand am V6, 66,000miles. For 4+ months, it has had hesitation (pushing on gas pedal does nothing until it's almost floored), poor acceleration, choppy acceleration at high end of RPM, lower than usual gas mileage, and sounds like the engine is stressed. A month ago my tranny started clunking after long drives, or during hot, humid weather. Since then, Ii has had 2 tune-ups (replaced spark-plugs and wires), and re-built tranny. It still has all the symptoms as before except the clunking in the tranny. The check engine light will go on and off randomly as the car is stressed. I'm thinking a bad catalytic converter, the dealer already checked the O2 sensor and fuel lines and said they were fine. Any suggestions before I take it back so the dealer can "FIX" my car again?

6 Replies

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

I wouldn't go back to the dealer, there are many good independent shops that can help you. What liter size motor? 3.4? There may be damage to the converter, but may stem from another source. IS the level of the oil and coolant correct? I have seen many intake manifold gasket go bad on these.

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Wednesday, September 19th, 2007 AT 10:51 AM

ADWASM

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Yes, it's a 3.4L engine. I kind of HAVE to take it to the dealer because it's still under warantee for another 9,000miles and they won't re-imburse me for any work I do outside the dealership. I'd like to have an idea of what it is so I can try to lead them in the right direction since they haven't found the real problem yet. I change the oil every 3000mi and check the coolant every week. No changes in either during the last 4 months.

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Wednesday, September 19th, 2007 AT 10:57 AM

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IS that an "aftermarket "warranty?
IF you have the contact, what company does it say?
What is the 1-800 claim number on the contract and what is your VIN?

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Wednesday, September 19th, 2007 AT 11:02 AM

ADWASM

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I had the car checked again, they pulled codes and they said an EGR fault and they also saw a leak in the intake manifold. Does this sound like it could be the culprit?

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Friday, September 21st, 2007 AT 9:16 AM

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I would agree that it is likley. Not convinced that your required to go to the dealer just yet though. The deal always says that, but that car is out of manufactures warranty period.