Strange Engine Problem

[Hurricane87]

I've never had something like this happen before. Occasionally the stereo will get very loud for a second, the speedometer will fluctuate. and then the engine will shut off. Sometimes the first two things will happen and the engine keeps running, but is sluggish for a few seconds.

Any ideas?​

 

[tomsteve]

check your grounds and power supply wires at the bat and alt.
whats the condition of your battery?

 

[rottonj]

Maybe the vehicle speed sensor? I believe the radio is connected to that.

 

[Hurricane87]

Tightening the battery terminals made it better, but didn't eliminate it. I just noticed today that the fluctuations in the HUD (which had earlier been repaired under warranty by a software update) go along with the speedo fluctuations, so I'm thinking it may be the speed sensor.

 

[SDGTP99]

Ooh I had a similar problem happen. For sure check that vehicle speed sensor, your grounds and check from exposed wiring.

 

[SDGTP99]

^^^because 1 or more of those 3 things will be the problem.

 

[Hurricane87]

Changing the vehicle speed sensor made it worse--now the cruise control shuts itself off.

The battery terminals have also been changed. Anyone have any other ideas? Please don't say "grounds." It's a Florida car that started its life in Oklahoma. Nothing is rusted out.

 

[rottonj]

If it got worse changing the sensor you may have a bad one, it shouldn't have gotten worse. Wire corrosion can happen over time and these cars are old, regardless where the car has been. CRC makes a battery cleaner and also a protector, if you spray it on the grounds it will strip off any corrosion. Cheap enough to try. Also make sure the power junction box with the cover by the passenger strut tower is tight , these can cause funky things to happen when they loosen. Keep at it, you will get there. good luck.

 

[SDGTP99]

^^^I second that. Take the new sensor back and exchange it for another one. I know it sucks to have to do that. Especially with that sensor.