My '96 grand caravan has been running great with 206,000 mi. However, I recently had some gaskets replaced to fix some minor leaks. Since then I have had my car back 4 times to fix what seems to be an idling problem. It runs fine for a while but will die periodically when idling at slow speeds. Also, it will die 2-3 times when first starting it. I have to give it gas to get the RPMs up to keep it going. The SES has been on ~3 times and the last fix was replacing the idler motor, but the problem is still there.
ANy suggestions? I thought maybe it is the fuel pump or fuel filter. I have not changed the fuel filter in 50K miles or more. HELP!!!!!!!!!!
gas28man
02-07-2005, 12:37 PM
Check your trouble codes first using the on-board diagnostics and see what you get, but from your description, sounds like EGR valve, or perhaps an O2 sensor.
Rick
usispals
02-08-2005, 11:54 AM
Rick - I did the diagnositic myself with no response. I talked to the mechanic yesterday and we tried the following:
Throttle body - was already cleaned, tried cleaning again with no results
Throttle positioning sensor - not seeing variations in RPM so mechanic thought this was not the problem
MAP sensor - he pulled it out cleaned if off and messed with it with no change. We could try to replace it.
IAC - was already replaced, but mech. thought the interface with the throttle body may need to be cleaned, he will check today
EGR valve - no diagnostic indication yet, mech. did not get reading so he thought it would not be the problem.
O2 sensor - same as EGR valve
Vacuum leak - he sprayed carb cleaner around front engine cover to check for leaks but found none.
He recently replaced a metal fuel line that was leaking and replaced the valve cover gasket. After this fix is when these idling problems started. The mechanic is going to review his fix to see if there are any problems. My following plan of action is as follows:
* Mechanic will review previous repairs and check sensors
* Maybe just replace EGR valve, O2 sensor anyway (will check price)
* Take to dealer to see if they can find any diagnostics. I was told the dealer may have better diagnostic reader which may find problem
Any comments or thoughts???? Thanks for you help so far!!!!!!!
gas28man
02-08-2005, 01:14 PM
You're right about getting a more sophisticated diagnosis from the dealer, but they will charge you. If you go to one of the chain auto parts stores (we have Advance and Auto Zone around here that do it), they have a P-code reader and will come out to the parking lot and plug it in and read if for free. It's definitely surprising, though, that your SES light is coming on, but the on-board diagnostic isn't giving you a code. Sounds like you're on the right track with reviewing that fuel line repair. You seem to have all the other bases covered.
