Expert: keith - 6/1/2005

Question
Hi...
I have a 2000 Chevy Cavalier that in the last year or so has developed a heavy idle. I have tried to alleviate this problem by getting a tuneup, regular oil changes, fuel filter yada yada. Nothing seems to fix it. I think perhaps the Ethanol-gas conversion from a year and a half ago affected the engine?

To descibe my problem is this: The car runs ok, but at a stop light you can feel the car bucking a little from the idling..you can also hear it jumping. There is also an odd smell...not so much exhaust, but like a raw fuel smell. You can smell the Ethanol in the air, but I've noticed this in other vehicles as well. Is there any additive I can use to help? What service can I do to my car to help, since a tuneup didn't help?

One more thing...about a year ago I almost blew the fuel pump due to a 90% clogged fuel filter. Could the idling be a result of a strained fuel pump that should be replaced?

Thanks,
Neal

Answer
Hi Neal, you can have A pressure test done on the fuel pump to check it. I think your injectors are dirty as a result of A very dirty filter,some dirt may have gotten through to the injectors. First you can try injector cleaner that you put in your tank along with the fuel, you can get that at an autmotive store. If that dont work you can have your injectors serviced by a machine(this is an expensive machine and maybe only available at higher end service shops) This machine does a really good job and i have seen it fix a lot problems like yours. I hope this helps you. Regards, Keith.