How to Troubleshoot a Chevrolet Corsica

by Alibaster Smith

You don't need to be an expert mechanic to diagnose your Chevy Corsica's problems. However, basic knowledge of the system and how your car works is essential. When you do troubleshoot your Corsica, it's also a good idea to keep things simple, as often there are several potential solutions to a problem. The best way to approach troubleshooting is to try the simplest solutions to common problems first and work your way up to the more complex solutions.

Step 1

Check to see if the engine stumbles on acceleration. Over time, the Corsica's fuel injection system may need to be checked and adjusted. This will need to be done by a qualified mechanic.

Step 2

Check for any oil spots or puddles under the Corsica. After 100,000 miles of driving, seals around your Corsica's oil pan may begin to leak. The oil pan gasket is the common culprit, but it may also be the oil pressure sending unit.

Step 3

Check for white smoke coming out of the tailpipe when the Corsica is running. This is typically symptomatic of a blown or failing head gasket. However, late-model Corsicas have plastic intake manifolds that have a tendency to melt or fail around 100,000 miles. Take your Corsica to an authorized Chevy dealer to see if your Corsica is covered under the recall for these faulty manifolds.

Step 4

Listen for rattling coming from the transaxle while the car is running. This is normally the result of an improperly adjusted throttle cable, though it could also be a loose release fork. If this is the case, have the vehicle serviced by a mechanic. If you are having idle problems, adjust the throttle cable adjustment bolt by turning it clockwise to raise the throttle/engine idle speed.

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