CAR ELEC. PROBLEM

[Gr8horn]

I have a 1992 Buick Roadmaster and for some reason my car, when in idle, starts to hiccup and seems to want to die. I mean that it is idling fine and then starts to die then goes back up to normal. I have changed the spark plugs and wires to no avail. It also loses all power every three weeks or so. I will jump it and it works the same way for about another three weeks then continues to do the samething. I need some help bad. If anybody can help I would appreciate it. Thanks!

 

[Woland]

Have you cleaned the poles on the battery?

 

[hornface]

Take it to any auto parts store and have them check the battery and alternator.
You can also do a bunch of other little things like putting some injector cleaner in the gas, or cleaning out the throttle-body (or carburator), have the timing checked. But it sounds like an alternator problem.

 

[Gr8horn]

The alternator is new and the battery is good as well. I have been told that it maybe my voltage regulator. I just can't seem to figure this one out. It runs like a champ until I'm stopped and idling.

 

[7Titles]

Does it have something like an idle speed control motor? I had similar symptoms on my car until I replaced it, but my car is much different, 94 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4.

 

[accuratehorn]

Electronic idle control problem, vacuum leak, valves burnt or sticking, many other possibilities. Does it have a check engine light on-if so, get the code read, it may provide the answer.

 

[Gr8horn]

No service lights are on...yet. I will probably take a voltage meter to the car and see what I can see. If that doesn't work I'll just kick the tires again.

 

[ornjblud]

Perhaps a dirty/faulty mass airflow sensor? I cleaned the MAF filaments on a friend's explorer and it cleared up an erratic idle.

You might still try to pull a code, sometimes you can get a code without a CEL. If so, it will help narrow down the problem. I think places like autozone will scan your car for free.

 

[Gr8horn]

Thanks for all of the suggestions. I'm taking off work tomorrow to try and fix it myself. I'll let y'all know the outcome.