Possible Cause & Correction

2001 Chevrolet Cavalier LS, 2.4 TSECTION Possible Cause & Correction
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 32 other vehicles, including the 2002 Saturn SL2, 2002 Saturn SL1, 2002 Saturn SL, 2002 Saturn SC2, and 2002 Saturn SC1. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check the following items:

  • Check ignition wires for short or faulty insulation. Spray spark plug wires with a fine mist of water to check for shorts.
  • Using Spark Tester (J-26792), check for available secondary voltage.
  • Check ignition system for faulty ground and power feed circuits.
  • Ensure ignition control wiring harness is not routed too close to wiring which may cause induced voltage signals.
  • Check Transaxle Range (TR) switch input with vehicle in drive and shifter in drive or overdrive.
  • Remove spark plugs and check for correct heat range, wear, cracks, wetness, improper gap or heavy deposits.
  • Check for poor quality or alcohol contaminated fuel.
  • Check for improper fuel pressure. Check for restricted fuel filter. See FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST under BASIC FUEL SYSTEM CHECKS in appropriate BASIC DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES article.
  • Check for plugged injectors. Perform injector balance test. See FUEL INJECTOR BALANCE TEST under FUEL SYSTEMS in appropriate SYSTEM & COMPONENT TESTING article.
  • Check PCM for proper ground circuits. Check for internal PCM intermittents.
  • Check engine compression. Check for incorrect valve timing, bent push rods, broken valve springs or worn camshaft lobes.
  • Check for sticking EGR valve.
  • Check TP sensor for sticking and binding. Check for correct TP sensor voltage. See FUEL SYSTEMS in appropriate SERVICE & ADJUSTMENT SPECIFICATIONS article.
  • Using a scan tool, monitor the Knock Sensor (KS) system for any excessive spark retard activity.
  • Check MAF sensor and connections.
  • Check for proper Crankshaft Position (CKP) and Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor resistance.
  • Check exhaust system for restrictions, such as a damaged or collapsed pipe, muffler or catalytic converter.
  • Check for faulty motor mounts.
  • Check injector drivers by disconnecting all injector harness connectors and connecting an injector test light (noid light) to each injector's harness terminal. Light should flash while cranking.
  • Check intake and exhaust manifold passages for casting flash.
  • Check PCM and engine grounds for correct locations, tight and clean connections. See WIRING DIAGRAMS article.

RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.