Q: My car is hard to start, and runs poorly when it does start.
Although its been cold outside I have never had this issue when starting my vehicle before. First it has a hard time starting then once started the engine light begins to blink (I have always had issues with the engine light coming on and off throughout the time that Ive owned the vehicle but despite having it checked out nothing was wrong). A couple other alarms start going off but they don't stay on long enough for me to figure out what they are. It makes a "glug glug glugging"noise and the entire vehicle is bouncing with every glug. When I put it into gear the glugging noise becomes deeper and almost a bit slower and there is hardly any power to actually move the vehicle forwards or backwards. I know this all probably means a serious issue I just want to know what the problem is.
My car has 219000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our
terms of service
for more details
Get an instant quote for your car
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing
What others are asking
How do I turn the clock on or off?
The clock can be turned on or off easily and quickly: 1. Press the Trip Computer switch until the settings menu shows up 2. Rotate the Trip Computer switch to Clock, then press the switch. 3. Rotate the Trip Computer...
Headlights dim when revs drop while driving
Check the battery and have the alternator load tested. A lot of times it is as simple as you needing a new battery or an alternator. You can get the car load tested or try or test the alternator yourself...
Wont turnover
Check the main engine fuse box and look for fuse number 27. Remove the fuse to see if it is blown and discoloration in the socket. The fuse holder cannot handle the load on it, causing it to overheat. You...
steering wheel won't unlock my key turns only to turn lights on but that's it can't unlock steering wheel to start the car what to
The steering lock may not be unlocking either due to a faulty ignition lock housing or more commonly as the cars age a faulty spring at the steering wheel on the under side of the column. If the ignition lock...
My AWD is not working
Hey there. This could be anything from something simple as a differential clutch connector problem to something more serious, such as a mechanic failure with clutches, rear axle, or coupling. You should have a Check Engine Light of some kind...
Went got a test at Autozone for alternator, she stated everything test normal but battery voltage is too low? What does that mean?
Hello. This could mean the alternator is not charging the battery high enough or the battery will not accept and hold a charge. You may need to replace the battery first, then recheck the alternator charging system for proper operation....
I put my car in park and turned it off, now the shifter won't move
From the description you have provided, it would appear to be a shifter and/or shift cable problem. A bad shift interlock solenoid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/shift-interlock-solenoid-replacement) may be preventing the shifter from moving. It could also be that the shifter or shift cable...
My truck runs great but their is a little white smoke coming from tail pipe
Hello. Your particular make and model is known to develop excessive condensation during colder mornings and cause a white smoke to plume at startup. Other things that may cause a white smoke to come from the exhaust are a leaking...
Where is my PCV Valve located on my 2009 HHR SS 2.0 Turbo
Based on the parts diagram (https://www.wholesalegmpartsonline.com/products/VALVE-Engine-Crankcase/2668790/12589440.html) for your vehicle, the PCV valve itself is mounted to the intake manifold. See the part identified as No. "529" (ACDelco #12589440) on the just referenced parts diagram. Replacement of the valve might require...
Related articles
The Best Used Cars to Buy for First Time Car Owners
Owning Owning your very first car is an exciting time in a person’s life. Likely you want to put a lot of thought and research into the process to ensure you get something that meets your needs, is fun to...
The Top 5 Selling Cars in Connecticut in 2012
Connecticut Connecticut offers plenty of rain and its fair share of snow during the winter months, which means drivers need vehicles that can handle these conditions. Top selling vehicles in previous years have included the Toyota Camry, Corolla and the...
Volkswagen Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
Drivers Drivers in the market for a used Volkswagen vehicle may want to check out cars under their certified pre-owned program. Many manufacturers have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, and each one is set up differently. Read on to learn...
Browse other content
Estimates
Maintenance