Starting Problems

• If the engine and starter will not rotate when the key is turned, check the connections between the battery cables and the battery terminals. If there is any corrosion present, the terminals must be cleaned. Also, tighten the retaining bolts that secure the cables to the battery terminals. Turn the headlights on to make sure the battery is fully charged. If the lights appear dim, charge the battery. If the starter motor spins, but does not rotate the engine, remove the starter and look at the teeth on both the starter gear and the flywheel. Make sure the bolts that connect the starter to the engine block are tight. If any are missing or chipped the starter or flywheel must be replaced. If the engine is hard to start when hot, there is a possibility it could be flooded. Wait 15 minutes before attempting to start it again.
  
  

Idling Problems

• If the engine stops soon after starting, check that all the electrical connections to the distributor, ignition coil and alternator are fastened securely. It could also be the result of a vacuum leak. Tighten all the bolts that secure the throttle body and intake manifold. Check the vacuum hoses for leaks by spraying soapy water on them and watching for bubbles to appear. If the engine idles erratically, check the air filter and replace if it is excessively dirty or clogged.
  
  

Engine Misses

• If the engine misses at idle speed remove the spark plugs and make sure they are gapped properly. Also examine the spark plug wires. If the engine misses while driving at speeds above idle examine the distributor cap and rotor. Replace if it's overly worn or damaged.
  
  

Stalling, Backfiring and Lacking Power

• If the engine stalls, remove the fuel filter and check to see if it's clogged. Replace as necessary. Tighten the bolts that secure the intake manifold and throttle body; check the vacuum lines for leaks. If the engine stalls out after cruising, it could be a sign the torque converter clutch is malfunctioning. Backfiring on an early model Cavalier with a HEI ignition could be a sign of incorrect ignition timing. If the engine lacks power, check to make sure the distributor is securely bolted to the engine. Loss of power could also be a sign of problems that are not directly related to the engine, such as the clutch slipping or the brakes binding. It could also be a sign of low or uneven cylinder compression. Remove the spark plugs and perform a compression test.
  
  

Knocking and Dieseling

• A knocking sound coming from the engine is a sign of detonation and could be caused by using the wrong grade of gasoline. It could also be a sign of incorrect ignition timing or using the wrong type of spark plugs. Remove the spark plugs and compare them to the listing to the emissions control sticker in the engine bay. If the engine diesels meaning it continues to run after being switched off, it could be that the idle speed is too high or that the engine is overheating.