Problem with car holding idle at startup. I manually hold accelerator to warm engine. Then engine may sputter and miss until car hits 2nd gear and runs for a minute. Then car drives fine.

Asked by JaymeTampa Nov 05, 2011 at 08:17 AM about the 1989 Chevrolet Celebrity

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

After stopping I may have to wait an hour for the car to start again.  Acts like a computer chip problem.  Really perplexed!

2 Answers

Check coolant level in radiator...not just in overflow bottle. If it's low, fill and try again. Also, unplug coolant temperature sensor, usually located near thermostat housing. (follow top radiator hose to where it meets engine) See if it runs better cold and/or starts when its hot. If either is true when unplugged, replace sensor.

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