2003 with about 130k miles on it, automatic.

Just had the tranny fluid, oil, coolant fluid changed so they are all good. Spark plugs, pcv were done at 88k, and air filter was done around 105k.

Occasionally when I start moving from a stop, the car will stutter and will have almot no power, almost like it's missing spark or not getting any fuel. The o2 needs a change, and the check engine light goes off and on (comes on when the engine starts to stutter). It does not happen at RPM or when cruising on the freeway, just when taking off from a stop.

From what I can tell, the only fuel filter is in-tank and it's more of a screen than a filter.

I am not sure what could be causing this, but when I floor it.. the car will pickup and start going.

It's hit or miss, sometimes it works just fine... and other times it has this problem.

Just wondering if anyone has any insight.

Thanks,
Darren

 

Get a code scanner and see what that check engine light is. they are cheap. hows the air filter?

 

Last time I did that, the error code was from the cat. I believe there was a recall on these, but we never had it swapped out. Not sure if that may be the problem or not.

I got a brand new air filter I can throw in there, which I'll probably do tomorrow morning.

 

If you're getting a CEL for something, get that fixed first an then report back to us. If in fact that was a recall on it, then it should be free too!

 

Yeah, that is a good idea. I'll give the dealerships a call.

I should search around and see if there is a recall list on this forum, I am sure there is

 

Spark plug wires? Cat clogged?

 

Bad fuel, dirty injectors, bad spark plugs.

Get some Seafoam down the throat of your manifold, some in you gas tank, and then change the plugs.

 

Have you checked your spark plug wires and coil packs? Does this happen when you floor it when you take off or 50% throttle? or do you just ease into it? If you are going to be under your hood at all, I would check those to see if they are burnt. I know there are pics up here on the forums somewhere but if you want, i'll take pictures of my old spark plug wires and coil packs (they were burnt pretty bad) so you know what they shouldn't be.

 

Now that I think of it, it might be a good idea to changes the wires, lol.

Should have done that when I replaced the plugs. It's always the obvious things I forget. Sigh... if only it were a rotary =P

Wires are like $35, so I should snag a set and look at the coil packs while I am at it!

It only happens between 800-2500 rpm. Mostly when I ease into it, but sometimes when I just push the gas and go normally. It's really hit or miss, can't find a spot that is consistent.

 

ding ding ding ding ding!

 

I just changed the filter, had a stock one from my previous lancer so I just tossed it in there.

Going to pick up PCV and plugs, and wires. Those are all fairly cheap. =P

I'll keep you posted, no time to work on it today. Have to do it tomorrow.

 

just changed it as in:
A: 2 hours ago
B: 25k miles ago

 

He changed it yesterday

 

Just about the cheapest (and quickest) online site for Lancer parts I've found is www.mr-auto-parts.com . NGK plug wires for $27.47... Free shipping on orders over $50, no matter their weight!

 

Nice, thanks for the link.

Yeah, air filter was just changed yesterday.

Have to ask the woman if it's acting up, but the spark plugs and wires could use a change anyway.