Problem Reports
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1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Problems
Check Engine Light With Code P0171 and/or P0174
The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) tube which connects the EGR valve to the intake manifold may develop an engine vacuum leak, causing the Check Engine Light to illuminate with code P0171 and/or P0174 stored.
Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue
Illumination of the Check Engine Light can be caused by a loose or worn gas cap.
Intake Manifold Gasket May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil
The intake manifold gasket may develop and external engine oil or coolant leak. In some cases, an internal coolant leak may occur causing coolant to mix with the engine oil. Our technicians tell us that operating the engine with a coolant/oil mix can result in internal engine damage. Replacing the intake manifold gasket should correct these leaks.
Corrosion At Ignition Coil Towers
Corrosion may develop at the connection between the ignition coil tower and spark plug wire resulting in an engine misfire. The Ignition coil and spark plug wire should both be replaced to correct this condition.
Oil Pump Drive O-ring May Leak Oil From Rear of Engine
An engine oil leak may develop from the rear of the engine. This is commonly caused by a failed oil pump drive o-ring seal. The leaking o-ring should be replaced to correct this concern.
Oil Pump Drive O-Ring May Leak Oil
An engine oil leak may develop from the oil pump drive O-ring. This can often be confused with an intake manifold gasket leak. Careful inspection is required to determine the exact cause of the leak. Replacement of the failed 0-ring will commonly correct this concern.
Rough and/or High Idle Due to Engine Vacuum Leak
The upper intake manifold gasket and/or a PCV vacuum lines/hoses can develop vacuum leaks with age. This type of leak can result in a higher that normal or rough idle.
Corrosion on Battery Cable Ends
Acid may leak from the battery at the cable connections, resulting in corrosion on the battery cable ends and in the battery tray. A Leaking battery should be replaced and the cables thoroughly cleaned or replaced if necessary.
Key Stuck in Ignition Lock Cylinder
The automatic transmission shifter may fail, or a wire may break near the shifter causing the ignition key to become stuck in the ignition lock cylinder.
Power Window Not Working Due to Failed Switch
One or more of the power windows may stop working due to a failed window switch. Failed switches will require replacement.
Engine Stall Or No Start Condition
The fuel pump may fail causing engine to stall and not restart.
Engine Overheating Due to Water Pump Leak
The water pump may develop a coolant leak resulting in an engine overheating condition.
Transmission Fluid Leak From Cooler Line
An automatic transmission fluid leak may develop from the rubber section of a transmission cooler line. In some cases the rubber section of hose can be replaced. In others, the complete cooler line must be replaced to correct this type of leak.
High Pressure Power Steering Hose Can Leak Fluid
The high pressure power steering hose will commonly leak fluid; it should be replaced.
Poor Ride/Handling Due to Worn Suspension Struts
The front struts may show signs of wear, or be excessively bouncy ride at freeway speeds. This may begin to occur at around 75,000 miles.