Checking the fuel psi is to see if its the fuel pump or if the problem is another cause. it's to eliminate the fuel psi as a problem, while at auto zone have them run the codes that have the engine light on as well.
the code check is free,and could get an idea what else mite be bad. getting enough info before buying parts saves money.
other problem it could be. which is why you check
Spark plugs. did you use platinum or the cheapest. the cheap plugs only last about a year or so. were they gapped right when put in?
Vaccum line. mice like to chew these.
Wiring. mice like to chew wires covering off and sometimes the wires too. one got in my moms car and chewed the wires over the back the motor that ran charging and engine. open the hood and look in the V of the motor block around the back intake, mice like to leave/tree seeds and chewed acorns shells,pinecone bits in the top the motor. Hedge hogs like belts plug wires and hoses more.
Water. could have water in fuel. next fillup put in 2 bottles drygas. gas stations can get water in they're fuel from trucker washing the tanks out. or steal gas for personal use and replace with water so the load balances out.i've seen cars get motor wreaked, they only got gas and pumped a full tank of water.
timing chain maybe streached a bit. if it gets loose enough it can jump time on the motor. motor won't run at all if that happens.
CPU Temp sender. choke for fuel injection is to open the injectors a bit more when cold. the cpu uses a temp sensor to tell it the motor is cold and needs more to run right. you may not notice in warmer weather.
TPS (throttle positioning sensor) THIS PART HAS TO BE DONE BY A PRO. NOT A BACK YARD MECHANIC. TPS could be failing or out of adjustment if someones messed with unscrewing it. not knowing what it was. where the valve plate is on the other side from the cable for the peddle on the intake is a little box with 3 to 6 wires going in it. thats the TPS ,normal held by 2 screws.
Read these guides, they will help you figure this out
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/stall-at-idle
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/throttle-actuator-service
Wednesday, December 22nd, 2010 AT 3:26 PM