'01 S80 2.9 Stalling frequently at low RPM

soooonr · Post by **soooonr** » 17 Dec 2014, 21:05

Hello everybody!

I'm a new member and I'm really grateful for all the useful info. Forgive my complete lack of knowledge about stuff under the hood. I'm new at auto repair but I'm really enjoying the challenge!

The problem- I poured antifreeze everywhere (except where it's supposed to go) a few days ago and immediately my engine started stalling when the RPM got low. About half of the time it dies when it idles and sometimes it idles erratically, and about 25% of the time it idles normally. It stalls when it's moving and apparently other drivers don't appreciate me stopping in the middle of the street for no apparent reason. Weird, right? Also, all of the dash lights go on when it stalls and I think a few times it seems like there have been power surges (?) because the lights would get brighter and then dimmer again.

Attached are pics of a part of the MAF and the pic with the arrow is of a hose that has a break in it (the hose with the white line). Sorry for the poor quality of the pics. I purchased MAF cleaner but I can't seem to remove the MAF from the large hose (intake? round plastic part?) to it's left. The wire thingys are sooty and I'm going to clean that as soon as you kind folks tell me how to remove it.

: MAF sensor.

: Hose that's broke.

Does the sensor part of that MAF look like it might be the cause of my problem? How do I get that MAF off of the hose it's attached to on the left(I got the side with the screws off)? What is that hose with the white stripe for and could the hole in it be my problem? The antifreeze I spilled could have easily made it into the hole in that hose.

Thank you, you undoubtedly intelligent, attractive and generous internet folks for time and thoughts. I'm very much obliged. I would be happy to return the favor if you ever need information about... ummm... uhhhh... Trailer Park Boys (the TV series)!

Post by **oragex** » 18 Dec 2014, 05:09

It is probably something electrical, although not easy to diagnose.

By antifreeze do you mean windshield fluid you were pouring into its reservoir? Did it go on the alternator? It could be a lack of voltage or even a serpentine belt slipping. Or the fluid may have accumulated in an area wetting an electrical connector.

soooonr · Post by **soooonr** » 18 Dec 2014, 13:37

I was attempting to pour coolant in the reservoir. I don't think it got on the alternator, but I can't be sure.

Thank you for your time, oragex! I really appreciate the input. Happy Holidays!

Post by **oragex** » 18 Dec 2014, 16:24

There aren't many electrical connectors around the coolant tank, with one exception - the large box near the power steering reservoir is the main computer. the box is normally water proof (you can push on the two side clips to remove the cover) but it has a small fan at the rear side of the box which sometimes comes lose and water can get in the box by there.

soooonr · Post by **soooonr** » 18 Dec 2014, 22:40

I'll check that out!

Thanks for the advice!

Have a great weekend, oragex!

jbkeene · Post by **jbkeene** » 19 Dec 2014, 11:29

maybe you're overthinking it

when was the fuel filter last changed?

soooonr · Post by **soooonr** » 19 Dec 2014, 18:32

Change the fuel filter? Is that a thing? Just kidding- I have no idea the last time it was changed. I bought some Seafoam so I'll give that a try. Great idea!

Thanks, jbkeene! I hope you have a very happy holiday season!!!

Beck · Post by **Beck** » 19 Dec 2014, 19:12

Get the codes pulled. That will tell you exactly what's going on.