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

18,695

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.

10

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 .

1 people found this helpful.

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

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