Thread: 2002 Grand Prix 3.8 L rough idle, stall, won't crank for awhile

I have a 2002 with a 3.8 L. Just bought the car this week. Son was driving it at approximately 35 mph when the engine died. He was able to restart. He drove another short distance and the engine died again. Now, it wouldn't start right away. He called and I went to his location. By the time I got there the car started right up but the car makes an odd noise similar to acceleration pinging or a diesel engine. It did not make this sound when I bought it.

I started the car this morning and it started right up. It made the acceleration pinging or diesel engine sound right from the start. Once the car warmed the rough idle started again. When the car stalled it has yet to restart. Been about 30 minutes. At first it wouldn't crank at all, turn the key, fuel pump comes on and off, and turn the key and almost nothing. After some time, I get a little more crank...then a little more crank...

Any ideas?

I removed the radiator cap and did not see any liquid.

He says it did not go into the red. When I got to him the car was cold...it wasn't more than 15 minutes. Just had the car towed...when I turn the key, it sounds like the engine will rotate one progression...sometimes 2. I agree...it's hurt...just hope it isn't dead. Didn't plan on doing an engine replacement a week after I bought it.

It is the n/a. Based on what it's doing when I try to crank it...sounds like what it is.

Thanks for the info.