Thread: problems with car running

I have a 98 grand prix GTP. The car would'nt idle,and it kept dying. I replaced the ign. control module,and one of the coil packs that were all bad. I test drove it,and it ran fine. I drove it to work this morning,and at lunch it died,and started acting the same way as before,like it was'nt getting spark. I noticed that the traction control system off light is on(implying thay it is off),so after work I went back and turned the tcs off and started it,and it started and drove fine. I can't figure out what's wrong.Every time I have this problem the tcs off light is on. The tcs should always be on unless manually turned off.I would appreciate any help.

Originally Posted by t24moore

I dont think the two are related, (the trac light and the car dying). Are there any other symptoms like your tach bouncing? Your cam position sensor may be bad. First, check all of your grounding points to make sure they are good. One is on the tranny and the other is on the coil pack nut.

my rpms will bounce sometimes but not all the time, could that be my problem?

Thanks for replying. I started the car this morning,it ran for 10 mins.,then died. right before it died,the rpms were going up and down,like it was trying to keep itself running.I noticed some black fluid that came out of the tailpipe on the floor and wall of my garage that smells like gas,and the car would'nt start.sometimes it will run fine,then it will start to sputter and spit black smoke.I believe you are right about the tcs not being a factor,but this is my wifes car,and Ive had a bit of trouble with it as of late.I just replaced the head gaskets about a month ago,and now this.