HELP Diagnosing Problem

[HapAFcop]

I need help figuring out what's wrong with my car! It had been running great and then suddenly began running like crap.

Here's the symtoms:

rough idle
exhaust noise (used to be completely silent)
exhaust smell inside car when starting
seems to be using a lot more gas than normal
power is noticeably down
steady SES light
flashing SES light when accelerating or under load

Like I said, all this began at the same time with no warning. The car is a '96 3.8 Firebird with about 85k. I'm pretty sure the exhaust is original. Not sure about the plugs and wires...

Thanks in advance for any advice.

[Fusion]

WOw, exact same problems I am having with my 96 3.8 I dont know gettin it diagnosed on monday so i will find out. Ill be sure to post it.

[HapAFcop]

What a coincidence...

Be sure to post what you find out

Thanks

[sped214]

Generally, a flashing SES light indicates a misfire. Check plugs/wires. Run it in a dark garage with the hood up and look for arcing...

[BillyCobin]

Those are the exact symptoms of misfiring. Check the plugs, wires and coils.

[MustangEater8251]

what they said.

jeez why do 3.8Ls have so many misfire problems compared to the 3.4L?

[basemodel]

I dunno, when I had a misfire, it never flashed, but it did crap up at open throttle..those plugs are under warranty for a while, so try to take it to a dealer if that's what it is, 70k warranty I think..

[LTNone]

Seems to me I would change the wires and plugs so you know they are good, before you shell out cash for diagnosis.

You may also have a coil pack that failed.

[Wolfy]

oh yeah definitly plugs and wires, i had the same problem. i would even put money on it that it is cylinder #6 also!!!

[Fusion]

I already had misfire on cylinder #4 so your WRONG [img]smile.gif[/img] I dont know i'm guessing a rod bearing or something like that. I'll find out monday. Hopefully its not a rod, but highly doubt it cause i can drive my car...