My 2002 Chevy Malibu has been having trouble getting up speed after pulling off. I paid $70 fro diagnostic, now they want $60 more. I am a single mother who can't afford to keep paying all these diagnostic fees. I wanted to use the dealer who might be able to pinpoint better, but afraid to take that chance because they charge $120 per hour until the problem is found. This has been going on two months. Mr. Transmission ruled out the trans. And I don't believe it is either. This week when I put my foot on the accelerator there is a high pitch squeal that sounds like I dragging some poor animal to his death. Repairs done so far:
1. 3months ago - used fuel filter (don't know if related)
2. plugs & wire
3. emptied & refilled trans. Fluid
4. oil change
5. transmission screen replaced
6. gas treatment
7. upgraded to plus gasoline

Please help I'm at my wits end.

You didn't mention if the SES or Check Engine light was staying on...
I would be interested in looking at the ECM data stream on a scan tool. An experienced GM drivability tech should be able to sort this out.

Be sure to ask about diag fees up front. One hour charge is the norm, but that should be able to tell a lot.

Ask to see the tech's credential (look for engine performance and/or L1 endoresements) and ask, too, about warranties. Don't be afraid to talk directly to the tech, depending on shop policy. Some of us actually want to meet you.

. Check for codes. AutoZone will attach a scan tool to the Data Link Connector and check for any codes. There's no charge for this service.

. The squeal may indicate the serpentine belt, pulley, or tensioner needs replacing. Go with an exact ACDelco replacement. Another possibility is the water pump is squealing and needs replacement. Attach a mechanic's stethoscope or large-handle screwdriver and listen to the water pump, while the engine is running.

. Ensure the spark plugs were the same ACDelco plugs that came in the car; i.e. don't use another brand of plug.

You didn't mention if the SES or Check Engine light was staying on...
I would be interested in looking at the ECM data stream on a scan tool. An experienced GM drivability tech should be able to sort this out.

Be sure to ask about diag fees up front. One hour charge is the norm, but that should be able to tell alot.

Ask to see the tech's credential (look for engine perfomance and/or L1 endoresements) and ask, too, about warranties. Don't be afraid to talk directly to the tech, depending on shop policy. Some of us actually want to meet you.



SES light comes on about 30 seconds after pulling off and CEL only comes on every now and then- troughout the day - never stays on all day.
Codes listed below:
P0404B EGR OPEN POSITION PERF.
P1546C AC CLUTCH RELAY CIRCUIT
P0300B MISFIRE
B2600 DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS ERROR
B2960 PASSLOCK CYL. DATA INCORRECT

You'll need to get the diag codes checked to see which sensor is failing or out of range. This something they should have told you with the first diag.

The ECM uses variou inputs from sensors to control fuel, ignition timing, shift points, etc.

If the light comes on after the initial bulb check, the ECM is detecting a fault of some sort.

BTW: SES, CEL and MIL all refer to the same lamp. It would be amber.
(editted)

. Check for codes. AutoZone will attach a scan tool to the Data Link Connector and check for any codes. There's no charge for this service.

. The squeal may indicate the serpentine belt, pulley, or tensioner needs replacing. Go with an exact ACDelco replacement. Another possibility is the water pump is squealing and needs replacement. Attach a mechanic's stethoscope or large-handle screwdriver and listen to the water pump, while the engine is running.

. Ensure the spark plugs were the exact same ACDelco plugs that came in the car; i.e., don't use another brand of plug.



Codes are as follows:
p0404b egr open position perf.
p1546c ac clutch relay circuit
p0300b misfire
b2600 daytime running lights error
b2960 passlock cyl. Data incorrect

When codes check three weeks ago only p0300b was listed.

CODES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
P0404B EGR OPEN POSITION PERF.
P1546C AC CLUTCH RELAY CIRCUIT
P0300B MISFIRE
B2600 DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS ERROR
B2960 PASSLOCK CYL. DATA INCORRECT

WHEN CODES CHECK THREE WEEKS AGO ONLY P0300B WAS LISTED.
P3XX codes are misfire codes. That condition would be felt distinctly.
However, if the EGR is hanging open, you will loose power. The EGR stands for Exhaust Gas Recirculation. It's redirecting exhaust gasses into the engine to cool the cylinder tempuratures for emissions reduction. If it hangs open, it could be diluting the air-fuel mix and robbing power.
Then there's that noise you described. Txgm mentioned an engine component might be seizing. Have you had that checked and/or did any of the tech's mention or notice that noise?
It may have been belt squeal, but it bears looking into that concern, too.

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