I have a 2000 Sable. I bought it in February 10, the guy told me that it sputtered in the morning and needed to be warmed up. We had the pcv valve replaced by recommendation of the mechanic and that did not fix the problem. When it started to warm up outside, the sputtering stopped... The service engine light had come on and I had it inspected in June 10, they reset my computer and the light went off. I was told to drive 60 miles, and if the light did not come back on I would pass my emissions test. It did not come back on until September 10... Now that it is cold again, my engine is sputtering pretty bad. To the point that I have to hold my foot on the gas for about 10 mins. straight or it will turn off. It has been in the 30's in the morning, so I do think that this has made the sputtering worse. A couple months ago when I turned my car on, the light was flashing and then stopped. This morning the same thing happened, so I got the manual out and read that a flashing light means there is a misfire... At a cold start, the sputtering feels like the car may be running out of gas, as well as the interior and headlights dimming. I am going to get a tune up, new spark plugs, and try some fuel injector cleaner, but do you have any tips or suggestions? I paid $4500 for the car and I have already put money into it... I am concerned that I will have to pour a ton of money into it to get it running right, and I just don't have it. I would love to hear someones take on this... Thanks so much!

 

Did they tell you what DTC codes were logged before they reset it? What engine do you have; the Vulcan or the Duratech 24 valve? Are you experiencing any other problems after the engine is warmed up (hesitation, rough idle, stalling, etc)? There are many things that it could be, but we really need more information. The IAC valve has caused similar problems. Also, the MAF sensor could be the culprit.

 

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