06 Cobalt rough idle and smells hot
Asked by Missouri1 Dec 19, 2015 at 10:10 PM about the 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt LS Sedan FWD
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
My 06 Cobalt started running rough and also dying at stops. It only seems to
do this after the engine is warmed up and has been driven awhile. I also not a
burning smell after this only outside the car. I cleaned the throttle body and
changed the spark plugs with no change. Does not seem to matter if air or
Heat are on or off. When this occurs I get a engine light that reads as a
general misfire.
3 Answers
Could be lots of things. You need to get the codes read to see what the computer is saying. It's likely an electronic issue of some sort although a plugged catalytic converter springs to mind as well.
badmonkey819 answered 5 years ago
I have a 06 chevy cobalt ls 2 door 5 speed . Was getting misfire codes , rough idling , smell like burning . Installed catalytic converter, mass air flow sensor , both oxygen sensors , had the car put on a scope nothing . Then I put a spare coil pack on and the misfire went away .
Everybody keeps thinking cleaning the intake etc... NOT THE PROBLEM!! The reason these cars stall and acts like it wants to turn off when you stop is: the ignition coil. This car doesn’t have a wire ignition system, it’s all one piece. These coils get hot and go bad. The good thing is, they are cheap ( rock auto $50) and easy to change. Just under the plastic cover, first thing you see. Couple screws to remove the sensor which is actually on top of the coil. 4 screws right on top holding coil down. Grip firm and steady to release suction from plugs, try not to break the plastic like I did , however rock auto gives you everything including the plastic. Replace in reverse done deal. Takes about 15- 20 minutes
