I recently bought a used 1999 Pontiac Grand Am Se 4-door 2.4 liter L4 with 80,000 miles on it. It ran perfectly the first week or so, then today it started acting weird. My son used it this morning to run an errand and nothing happened. Then I went to the doctor's office. I got there fine, but when I got done the engine cranked, but wouldn't start. It took me ten minutes to get it to start. Then, at a traffic light (while I was in drive) while I was stopped, the engine stalled. Luckily, it started on the first try, but it was very unnerving. I got home and my son started the car to see what I meant, and it started fine. Later that night, the same thing happened. It took 3 tries to get the engine to start. Pumping the gas had no effect. Then I left the car running in park and the engine stalled after 2 minutes.

I have found other complaints about the Passlock security system stalling the car, but we have a Sony XPlod stereo, so we have no way of controlling the security. I have no explination for the car's poor starting and I assume because they started on the same day that the failure to start and the stalling are related. I don't have much money for repairs. We have no warranty and little extra money, so if I could avoid taking the car to the shop and having them tell me they are stumped for $900 I would be a lot happier.

Please, if you have any ideas or suggestions, post them. I need help!

I have a 2000 grand am, 98,000 miles with similar problem. Sometimes will start, sometimes will not. Often will stall on highway, sometimes will not. Folks seem to think it is the fuel pump, which I will have changed out as soon as I can come up with the $250 for the part (thank God for free labor or the repair cost is $650!). Please let me know if you solve your problems with your car.

Thanks!

I had a similar problem with a 93 grand am. It had fits of not starting. It would turn over what i thought was just fine, but would not hit. I determined that it was the spark which led me to checking several things. Finally to the freaking battery posts, it sounds awfully similar. check it out and see if you have any corrosion and if the battery is holding the required amperage. Summer heat will get to a battery just like winter cold. Battery problems will fool you and it is also free at most battery places for them to check your battery out for you! Good Luck!

It sounds as if your fuel system isn't working properly, either the pump is going or your injectors are clogged. When starting the car if it seems like it's not going to turn over, do not pump the gas pedal that only puts more fuel into the engine, and could potentially flood the engine, that probably why it took you 3 times that one time to start the car. Passlock is not the issue with your car, passlock won't allow your car to start when triggered and the security light on the dash would come on. Also check your air filter, if your car isn't getting enough air or fuel the car will be harder to start and could possibly stall out on you.