It is mounted in the air hose between the air filter and engine.
Mass airflow sensor and or aircharge sensor is bad
To the best of my knowledge, the 97 does not have a MAP sensor. It uses a Mass Airflow sensor instead, and that is located in the intake boot either next to the air filter housing, or in the housing itself.
on the 2.4 its to the left of the starter above the oil filter
No
check your air filter, mass airflow sensor, egr valve, or fuel injectors
what is the firing order for a 97 Pontiac Sunfire 2.2
The upstream O2 sensor is mounted in the ehxaust manifold The downstream O2 sensor is mounted in the exhaust pipe after the catalytic converter
The mass air flow sensor commonly becomes dirty. The sensor can be removed, and the sensor wires can be cleaned to work like new.
Aprox $100 for the MAF sensor only.
Common causes could include a clogged fuel filter, a failing fuel pump, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, or a problem with the ignition system. It's recommended to have the vehicle diagnosed by a mechanic to pinpoint the exact issue.
Check the mass airflow sensor or have it checked. You can disconnect it which will allow the engine to start if this is the problem. This will at least allow you to trouble shoot this component and may allow you to get to a trustworthy independent garage if you have one.
no headlights different