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I am having problems with my 2002 firebird. when i start it up it backfires and also I am smelling gas fumes really bad. When I try to drive it he car does not want to go.
Posted Jun 22nd by Sandra the owner of a Pontiac Firebird Pontiac, firebird, backfiring, gas fumes

Answers from the Automotive Experts

Amanda J. Pierce, MBA Sandra, By your description it seems you may have fouled spark plugs, and need a basic tune up, I recommend that you review the manufacturers recommendations on your service intervals.
⟩ Answered on Jun 25th, 2009 by Amanda J. Pierce, MBA "AJ", Certified Mechanic at VIGOR Alaska Industrial Shipyard
Bogi Lateiner, Owner and Technician at 180 Degrees Automotive Hi Sandra - There are a number of things that can cause these symptoms, however it sounds to me like you have a fuel leak or a leaky injector. I would take it to a certified technician and have it looked at. Fuel leaks can be dangerous if left unattended to. Good luck! Bogi 180 Degrees Automotive http://www.180auto.com/
⟩ Answered on Jun 26th, 2009 by Bogi Lateiner, Owner and Technician at 180 Degrees Automotive
Karen Davis, Service Manager at Smith Stokes It sounds like your Firebird is running rich. The most common cause is the ignition system (plugs, spark plug wires, etc) I would start with a tune up if its been awhile and go from there. That could be the reason for your backfiring and fuel smell. Be sure you don't see any fuel leaking anywhere also as that could be a dangerous situation.
⟩ Answered on Jun 23rd, 2009 by Karen Davis, Service Manager at Smith Stokes
Lori Johnson, Owner and Instructor at Ladies Start Your Engines Dear Sandra, It's possible that you have a problem with your catalytic converter. This is part of the exhaust and when it gets clogged, it can cause driving problems. Usually a bad catalytic converter is caused by something else. Many times a bad fuel injector that dumps raw gas into the cylinder is the problem. This may be why you're smelling fuel as well. I would start here. The best thing to do is have a technician do a proper diagnosis. Lori Johnson www.ladiesstartyourengines.net
⟩ Answered on Jun 23rd, 2009 by Lori Johnson, Owner and Instructor at Ladies Start Your Engines
Shelly LoCascio, Dealer Principal at Irwin Lincoln Mercury Mazda Sandra you should probably call your dealer for an appointment. They can diagnois it for you.
⟩ Answered on Jun 23rd, 2009 by Shelly LoCascio, Dealer Principal at Irwin Lincoln Mercury Mazda

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