I recently bought a 1990 Sable. A new battery was put in before I purchased it. The previous owner said he thought that there may be a "short" because the engine would idle and then die at different times. I have found this too when I am at a stop light. Any ideas?

 

DOES IT JUST DIE THEN START UP? IS IT A 3.0 OR 3.8 ENG THSE CARS HAD ALOT OF DRIVEABILTY NEED LITTLE MORE INFO TO POINT YOU IN DIRECTION

 

I'm not sure. But recently I was told that it could be a sensor or maybe the oil filter needed changing. I changed the filter and have not had a problem since

 

I can't think of a situation where an oil filter would solve the problem you stated. I think whatever it was took care of itself.

 

I think I'm having the same sort of problem. When I drive sometimes for about 20 minutes straight I'll getto a light and when I take my foot of the brake the car will just sit there. If I press down harder on the gas it feels like the transmission will finally catch and the car will slam forward. what I usually do is put the car in park and then restart it and its fine. Anyone have any suggestions. Most mechanics say they cant fix it becuase they cant simulate the problem.

 

well mine is a 91 and it will crank but wont start, but id start by checking the ignition control module on the distributor those can act up, thats where im gonna start .

On the 3.0 I believe the ignition control module is on the distributor but on the 3.8 ,its bolted under the cowl vent there on the firewall.Autozone can test it also.

Edited by: onlyme