Oldsmobile 88 intermittent hesitation and stalling when starting to move on Oldsmobile 88

Submitted by red one · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Oldsmobile 88 owners report experiencing intermittent hesitation and stalling when starting to move. This hesitation can last for about 10-15 seconds and may be accompanied by a rough idle before backing out of the driveway. Additionally, some owners notice the engine chugging while stopped in traffic, which may smooth out after about 20 seconds, allowing for acceleration. Stalling issues may arise as the engine shuts down after running for a few minutes, requiring immediate restarts to continue driving. This stalling can occur when the vehicle is not applying throttle, potentially indicating a problem with the idle air control valve solenoid. Some owners also report backfiring and an increasing frequency of stalling, which could be linked to lean codes and misfire codes, suggesting a need to check fuel pressure. To address these issues, it is recommended to check the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor and Crankshaft Position Sensor, as well as consider replacing the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve solenoid if it is weak. Proper torque and condition of components like the harmonic balancer and crank sensor are also crucial to prevent stalling after repairs.

1 person reported this problem
0 comments
Schedule Repair

Oldsmobile 88 vehicles with this problem

Search for another problem

RepairPal Car Genius

Ask our experts about your Oldsmobile.

RepairPal Car Genius™ is a free resource for vehicle owners seeking advice on maintenance, auto repair, shop inquiries, estimates, and finding a trustworthy repair shop in your area.

 Auto Repair Expert Auto Repair Expert

Call us at 877-913-1554

Available 9am – 6pm ET Monday through Friday

Call Our Experts