Stalling at low speeds and idle and misfiring
So I bought this car at auction I'm a bit of a mechanic
Car hesitates to start up and when does start up idles very roughly wants to cut off you can drive it for like 2 miles then it will cut off on you as soon as you start to idle again
And one cuts off very hard to cut back on this car does not want to be on for some reason I scanned it it has a cylinder three misfire or it is not showing any other problems on the OBD two scanner so I'm very confused I change the spark plug boot and coil I check the oil for any mixing and the coolant there is no signs of a bad head gasket I feel
Car hesitates to start up and when does start up idles very roughly wants to cut off you can drive it for like 2 miles then it will cut off on you as soon as you start to idle again
And one cuts off very hard to cut back on this car does not want to be on for some reason I scanned it it has a cylinder three misfire or it is not showing any other problems on the OBD two scanner so I'm very confused I change the spark plug boot and coil I check the oil for any mixing and the coolant there is no signs of a bad head gasket I feel
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi There,
It sounds like you may potentially have a dirty or faulty idle air control valve that may be causing it to die at idle and potentially may be contributing to the misfires as well. Engine misfires can be caused by many different problems and are generally caused by either a spark or fuel issue or in some cases, a combination of both. Spark related problems generally will result from things like ignition coils, crankshaft position sensor, spark plugs, spark plug wires or ignition modules not working properly. When the misfire results from a fuel related issue, this is commonly related to a lean fuel condition (lack of sufficient fuel supply to the motor). Fuel related misfires can be caused by many different things such as low fuel pressure, faulty or dirty fuel injectors, a faulty O2 sensor, a dirty or failing mass air-flow sensor, a faulty or dirty idle air control valve or a vacuum or intake leak. When the fuel supplied to the combustion chamber is insufficient, this results in an ignition (spark) that is igniting a less than balanced load of fuel and air. This results in a misfire or an explosion in the cylinder that is much less powerful than the other cylinders. This creates a loss of power that resonates throughout the motor additionally causing other problems with ignition and fuel timing. Due to the number of different things that may cause an engine misfire, the quickest and easiest way to diagnose this type of problem is to hook the vehicle up to a scanning tool which will download any potential fault codes that may have registered in the vehicle’s computer as a result of the poor running condition. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose your misfiring problem.
It sounds like you may potentially have a dirty or faulty idle air control valve that may be causing it to die at idle and potentially may be contributing to the misfires as well. Engine misfires can be caused by many different problems and are generally caused by either a spark or fuel issue or in some cases, a combination of both. Spark related problems generally will result from things like ignition coils, crankshaft position sensor, spark plugs, spark plug wires or ignition modules not working properly. When the misfire results from a fuel related issue, this is commonly related to a lean fuel condition (lack of sufficient fuel supply to the motor). Fuel related misfires can be caused by many different things such as low fuel pressure, faulty or dirty fuel injectors, a faulty O2 sensor, a dirty or failing mass air-flow sensor, a faulty or dirty idle air control valve or a vacuum or intake leak. When the fuel supplied to the combustion chamber is insufficient, this results in an ignition (spark) that is igniting a less than balanced load of fuel and air. This results in a misfire or an explosion in the cylinder that is much less powerful than the other cylinders. This creates a loss of power that resonates throughout the motor additionally causing other problems with ignition and fuel timing. Due to the number of different things that may cause an engine misfire, the quickest and easiest way to diagnose this type of problem is to hook the vehicle up to a scanning tool which will download any potential fault codes that may have registered in the vehicle’s computer as a result of the poor running condition. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose your misfiring problem.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :
Since the only symptom is jerking while accelerating at low speeds, the transmission or fuel system are the most likely causes. The transmission may be slipping and catching as you accelerate, or the transmission control module may be going bad, causing odd performance characteristics.
Chrysler issued a recall for over 67,000 Pacifica Hybrid minivans from the 2017 through 2023 model years because the gas engine might suddenly stop while the car is moving, which could lead to a crash. The problem involves an internal transmission wiring connector.
A dirty mass airflow sensor will send the wrong information the computer resulting in a rough running or sputtering engine. Vacuum Leak: A leak in the vacuum system can lead to a sputtering or rough running engine. As the problem progresses the vehicle can hesitate or stall when accelerating.
Your vehicle could have dirty fuel injectors, a damaged fuel pump, a blocked catalytic converter, a faulty mass airflow sensor, broken spark plugs, or even an accumulation of moisture.
A Transmission Fault
Shifting issues can sometimes cause your vehicle to feel like it is jerking when accelerating. If you have internal transmission damage, it can cause the gears to slip [and] engage over and over again, which feels like jerking when accelerating.
On average, a well-maintained Chrysler Pacifica for sale can be expected to last anywhere from 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. This translates to about 10 to 15 years of use.
Lubrication issues, oil sludging, coolant leaks, overheating and low-mileage engine failures have plagued this engine family from the get-go. Some blame the design of the engine itself for all the ills it has suffered, while others blame consumers for not maintaining their engines properly.
A faulty crankshaft position sensor will be unable to identify the exact piston position, triggering an engine misfire. This causes your car to shut off while driving. A drop in performance, fuel efficiency, rough engine, etc., are some important symptoms of a damaged crankshaft position sensor.
There are three major causes for a stalled engine: A lack of fuel, a lack of air flow and improper ignition. Running out of fuel is one of the most common causes of engine stalling, but dirty fuel injectors or a plugged fuel filter can also be the culprit. Your engine needs air to run properly as well.
One of the most common causes of a sputtering engine is an issue with the vehicle`s fuel system—the filter, pump, and injectors. These three critical components work together to ensure fuel flows smoothly from the fuel tank to your engine`s fuel injectors, and then pumps into the engine evenly.
A clogged fuel or air filter can make your engine sputter and your acceleration lag because the engine is not getting enough fuel or air, respectively. The combustion chamber needs the correct amount of air and fuel in order to generate combustion efficiently.
A sputtering engine may just mean you need to have your fuel filter replaced. All vehicles have a series of vacuum hoses that create the fuel pressure. If one of them leaks or is damaged in any way, you will lose significant fuel pressure. The vehicle`s exhaust system can greatly impact the engine`s performance.
If the air/fuel mixture inside the engine becomes too rich, it can disrupt the exhaust, causing car jerks or the accelerator to respond when you press the gas pedal. Other symptoms of a faulty catalytic converter include foul odors and decreased fuel economy.
Available All-Wheel-Drive on Touring L, Limited and Pinnacle results in a range of around 323 city miles or around 475 highway miles per each 19-gallon tank of gas when considering the 17 city/25 highway MPG rating.
Does Chrysler Pacifica have transmission problems? There have been numerous reports of transmission problems in the Chrysler Pacifica across different model years. Some of the most common issues reported by owners include rough shifting, delayed shifting, complete transmission failure, and transmission slipping.
The engine control module does what its name suggests: It controls the engine. If the ECM has died completely, you won`t be able to start your car. Your engine could cut while you`re driving, as well, if the ECU malfunctions.
Knocking, backfiring, hissing, spitting and popping are noises that can occur when there is an abnormality in the combustion flow. If you hear strange noises from the engine, schedule an engine service as soon as possible!
The most common reasons a Chrysler 300 engine makes a ticking noise are low oil level or pressure, an issue with the ignition system, or an exhaust leak.
The most common sensor which can lead to your car stalling is the manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP) or the mass air flow sensor (MAF). Most cars typically have one or the other.
This sensor controls ignition timing of the engine and when it fails the computer does not know when to ignite the cylinder causing the engine to stall and not start correctly. I would recommend having a technician from YourMechanic come out and replace the sensor.
Dirty fuel injectors are among the most common reasons for why an accelerator becomes jerky. The dirty injector leads to your car losing power when you attempt to accelerate while at a stop and when you try to drive at a consistent speed. This is the result of an engine misfire.
Immediately turn on the vehicle`s hazard warning lights. They`re the universal sign of distress. If you`re unable to pull completely over onto the shoulder, or if the car is stalled in a traffic lane, do not attempt to get out of the car! Similarly, never try to cross a highway on foot.
When your car jerks, stumbles or stutters while driving, it usually means something is interfering with the proper distribution and transfer of power from your transmission. Another example is if you`re driving a manual transmission and haven`t gained the feel of shifting for your particular vehicle.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
After replacing the power steering pump there was a low idle, idle screw is all out, running rich, and idle speed doesn’t change.
ANSWER : Hi there. The engine has a vacuum leak and is causing the engine to stumble down on the idle. Check all of the vacuum hoses and the brake booster for any leaks. The engine is rich for it’s not burning all of the fuel properly and may also have bad spark plugs. If you need further assistance with engine not adjusting the idle, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.
Read Full Q/A … : Stalling at low speeds and idle and misfiring
Idles between 500rpm and 1300 rpm. Main concern is low rpm. Belt or pulley chirping mainly at low rpm Drives perfect but Idles bad
ANSWER : Hello. From what you describe it would appear that your vehicle may have more than one issue.
Belt chirping is usually caused by a worn belt or tensioner. If either component wears out the belt may loosen and chirp when the engine is started, or cold.
The low rpm low quality idle can be caused by a few different things. I would look at the idle air control valve, as that is the component that maintains the vehicle idle, and at any vacuum hoses that may be cracked or damaged, and possibly leaking. This is more likely for older or high mileage vehicles.
If you’re unable to pinpoint the issue yourself, consider YourMechanic, as one of our mobile technicians will be able to come to your home or office to diagnose your starting issue firsthand and make the necessary repair to your car.
Read Full Q/A … : Stalling at low speeds and idle and misfiring
Very low idling during cold start, stalling engine, 2007 Toyota Corolla
ANSWER : The first thing you should do is scan the engine and repair any codes. Have the fuel vapor system checked to make sure you do not have any problems with a leaking purge valve leaking vapor into the intake when the engine is not running and then leaks even more vapor when you start up the vehicle. If system is not leaking, then have the spark plugs replaced after having the throttle plates cleaned and the combustion chamber and valves cleaned. The valves may have some carbon build up on them that will cause low rough idle even stall cold. If you want to have this done, consider YourMechanic, as a certified technician from YourMechanic, can come to your home or office to diagnose the cold start and let you know what should be done.
Read Full Q/A … : Stalling at low speeds and idle and misfiring
Car sporadically stalls when at very low speed or stopped 2011 Volkswagon Jetta
ANSWER : Hello – it would be useful to know what the "successful" dealer did that improved the hard starting problem. These problems may or may not be related. What is the behavior when it shuts off? Can you start it right back up immediately, or does it remain "dead" for a few minutes (something needs to cool down?)? Do you have spark at the plugs after it shuts off (if it refuses to crank right back up)? Spark failure after a stall might be a crankshaft position sensorthat is beginning to fail. Random electrical faults due to bad wiring are a nightmare to diagnose, but the clues are still important in doing so. I recommend a stalling inspection performed by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will come to your location, diagnose this problem, and give you an accurate assessment of damage and cost estimate for repairs.
Read Full Q/A … : Stalling at low speeds and idle and misfiring
overheated twice and stalled. Changed thermostat now is fine. Now is stalling at low speeds. Any ideas?
ANSWER : Hi there. Typically engine overheating and issues you are describing are caused by damage that may have occurred during the overheating period. For example, if the engine cylinder heads got too hot, it’s possible that the head gasket may have warped, causing coolant to leak into the engine and cause performance problems. It’s also common for excessive heat to damage electrical harnesses and critical engine sensors or components that monitor and control the fuel and ignition system. The best way to resolve this problem is to have a professional mobile mechanic complete a car starts then dies inspection.
Read Full Q/A … : Stalling at low speeds and idle and misfiring
Problem with speed. No check engine light on but when accelerating speed, it decreases then speeds right back up. No stalling at all
ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. This is a common problem associated with fuel/air delivery which is very commonly related to what is called a mass airflow sensor. This monitors the flow of air intake into the throttle body as it is mixed with fuel to deliver the right air/fuel mixture into the motor. When this is not working properly, this will cause this kind of hesitation or surging when trying to accelerate. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your home or office to confirm a diagnosis on the issue and make or suggest the necessary repairs or replacements.
Read Full Q/A … : Stalling at low speeds and idle and misfiring
Low idle problem
ANSWER : Hi there. If the idle control valve is good then the problem is typically caused by a vacuum leak or an issue with the throttle body. I usually check the engine for vacuum leaks first. It may be a vacuum leak in one of the hoses or in the intake manifold. The intake gasket is a common failure.
If there are no vacuum leaks, then I would test the throttle position sensor to make sure it is reading correctly. If it is also reading fine, then I would check the throttle body itself. If the bore or plate is worn then this will occur. If you want to have this low idle problem inspected, consider YourMechanic, as a certified mechanic can come to your home or office to diagnose and repair this.
Read Full Q/A … : Stalling at low speeds and idle and misfiring
Car is chugging at low speeds and then stalls when I stop.
ANSWER : This may be related to a dirty or failing idle air control valve. The idle air control valve reads the air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the engine at low speeds and at idle. This valve is controlled by the vehicle’s computer which will adjust idle speed based upon other measurements such as engine temperature, intake air temperature and electrical system load or voltage. When you accelerate, the engine RPM increases, and as you let off the gas, the RPM slowly returns to the normal idling speed. This is all controlled by the idle air control valve. When the engine RPM drops below the normal range of 750-800 RPM (for most cars), this often times will cause the engine to stall indicating a dirty or faulty idle air control valve. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and repair your idle air control valve.
Read Full Q/A … : Stalling at low speeds and idle and misfiring
