Check engine light on?

Have a parts store scan the computer and let me know what code is coming on. Have them reset the check engine light to see if it comes back on. It should be done with a scanner.

Very simple just ignore it-due to programming issues of the PCM

Oh! Try and erase the code

The "check engine" light is an indicator for a system that monitors many electronic functions in the system, also called the "malfunction indicator lamp" (MIL). It can come on for any of hundreds of different causes from any of the systems that the computer monitors. Some are very important and can lead to further component or engine damage and some are emissions related not as serious but still a problem and need to be repaired.

Your first step is to have the computer scanned to retrieve the trouble codes that were set when the check engine light came on. Those codes will give you specific information about what the computer saw and will get you pointed in the right direction to find your problem. With a 1996 or newer and some 95 cars and you have an AutoZone or Advanced auto parts in your area, they will read them for free. Once you have these code numbers, we can be a lot more specific about what your problem may be.

At the mileage you listed the spark plugs should have been replaced a long time ago so start with that. You didn't list the engine size so I don't know which ignition system you have. If the misfire is still there and you have an individual ignition coil on each spark plug, swap the coil on cylinder 4 with one of the other ones, then see if it sets a misfire code for the cylinder you moved the coil to. If it does, suspect that coil.

Go TO Checker O'Reilly. They'll do it for free. Get back to us with the codes and descriptions.

We need to know the codes in order to help diagnose the problem.

If tune-up has never been done, especially with that many miles, I would definitely do a tune-up: plugs and wires to the very least.

If tune up has been done, remove the #2 spark plug. Check to make sure that you don't see any crack on the the plug wire (in the inside, too) and gap on the plug is good.

If you are doing the tune-up, make sure that you get the RIGHT plug and wires. There are 3 different 2.4L engines in the Stratus. Give the part store attendant the 8th digit of your VIN number. It will either be X, G, or J.

The air filter isn't the problem. What I need you to do is this. Take the vehicle to a nationally recognized parts store and have them scan the computer for trouble codes. Most will do it for free. Have that done and let me know what you find.

Joe

Please explain. Does not make sense.

Roy

What is the problem you have?

Roy