Every now and then, while we are using the car, it begins to run very rough, the instruments go haywire, power steering goes off. Usually if we park , remove the key, and let it set awhile, then restart, it cures the problem. However, sometimes it can take several hours or days to respond.

 

Since you don't say the year, model, engine size, mileage, how long owned or any repair history...... I'll take a very wild and vague guess.

Bad battery or connection.

 

Yes, low voltage, that would be my first thing to check. Your local auto parts store should be able to perform a free battery load test and charging system test.

to the forums!

 

X3 ^^^^^^

 

It's a 06, big motor, and lots of miles. I realy don't think it's a battery problem, have not had any trouble starting. I was thinking more along the lines of a computer glitch since it seems to "reset" itself after being turned off and key removed. Sometimes it happens again after a couple days, and other times it may be weeks between incedents. Am I totally off in that speculation ?

 

Yes, you may be totally off. Did I mention that the testing is free?

Yes, I did.

Big motor? Are you even talking about an HHR?

 

‘06, 2.4 , symptoms indicate low voltage, it might start, but not enough voltage to run the computers while running. 12.4 volts or less is a battery problem! Possibly a dead cell

 

Or, the big red wire on the fuse box.

 

No Don, we are wrong. . The OP said it can't be the battery/voltage/connection. It MUST be that computer (post #5)

 

I wonder if this is another case of "the CEL has been on for a long time, I didn't think it was important t mention".