Under acceleration my engine misfires?

Tiny
2006 TC
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
  • 69,000 MILES
Hi, I have a 2006 Chrysler Town & Country with 69,000 miles on it and it has had an engine light on for about 3 weeks wit no apparent issues driving the vehicle. Today I started it up and it was chugging at idle and still chugging while I gave it more acceleration, after about 1 minute the idle smoothed out and appeared normal at 1st until I started driving. As I drove the vehicle at low acceleration speeds it appeared ok but as I gave it more acceleration it starts this chugging again as if it was starving for air. As I drove it some more I could get up to the speed limit around 45 with light acceleration with no apparent issues but the minute I give it more acceleration (1/2 pedal) it starts this chugging. I have parked the vehicle until I figure out what direction to look. Any help is much appreciated.
Tuesday, December 27th, 2011 AT 5:02 AM

33 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
When was the last time you had a tune up because it sounds like the spark plugs got old. These guide will help us fix it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-misfires-or-runs-rough

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-tune-up-a-car-engine

Please run down these guides and report back.
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Tuesday, December 27th, 2011 AT 5:08 AM
Tiny
2006 TC
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thanks guys - I will do that tomorrow morning and return here. Thank you again.
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Tuesday, December 27th, 2011 AT 5:18 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Let us know what you find. Also, I noticed you didn't say the check engine light was on. Is it? if so lets run the codes.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Please run down this guide and report back. We have directions and a video to explain how to check fuel pressure, the regulator. Let us know which direction you want to go. If the check engine light isn't on, you may not have trouble codes stored at this point. Also, after driving it, take a look at the catalytic converter to see if it glowing red hot which would indicate it is plugged.
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Tuesday, December 27th, 2011 AT 5:21 AM
Tiny
2006 TC
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Ok great - I will look at the catalytic converter tomorrow and yes the engine light is on and has been for about 3 weeks. I disconnected the battery about 3 weeks ago and a couple of days later it went off for a few days until I was coming off the expressway on a circular exit ramp and the engine light came back on. This happened about 2 weeks ago. Yesterday I started and finished the tune up thanks for the guide btw now the light is off and the engine runs nicely once again! Thank you for your help.
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Tuesday, December 27th, 2011 AT 5:30 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Glad you could get it fixed, that kind of problem can be tough. Please use 2CarPros anytime we are here to help.
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Tuesday, December 27th, 2011 AT 5:31 AM
Tiny
MEADSON
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2005 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 24,865 MILES
Repair shop said I had WORN PLUGs
How can plugs be worn at less than 25,000 miles

DRB code P0302 for multi cylnder misfires
TSB said replace plugs and wires and update PCM
What would the PCM update be?

What could have caused the problem so I can figure out what to expect next?

Why should an engine burn over a quart every 3000 miles. I have kept up with all the oil changes required, just don't' use it enough for more frequent oil changes.

Thanks
Meadson
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:03 AM (Merged)
Tiny
DAVE H
  • MECHANIC
  • 13,384 POSTS
Hello .. thanks for the donation .. much appreciated

PO302 is a misfire on cylinder #2 ... it is possible this is because #2 plug is worn .. but more likely due to the PCM software needing to be updated ..as with all computer software updates are required periodically .. I am including the TSB

FLASH: MIL ILLUMINATION DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
Reference Number(s): 18-018-04, Date of Issue: April 27 2004
GROUP:Vehicle Performance

Related Ref Number(s): 18-018-04
ARTICLE BEGINNING
SUBJECT
NOTE:THE SOFTWARE IS AVAILABLE ON TechCONNECT. FOR MARKETS OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA, THE SOFTWARE AND REPROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE AVAILABLE ON ITIL/ISIS CD/DVD JUNE, 2004.

Flash: MIL Illumination Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306
OVERVIEW
This bulletin involves replacing the spark plugs, ignition wires and if necessary, reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module with new software.
MODELS
2004 - 2005 (RG) Chrysler Voyager
2004 - 2005 (RS) Town & Country/Caravan
NOTE:This bulletin applies to vehicles equipped with a 3.3L engine (sales code EGA or EGM) or 3.8L engine (sales code EGH), built on or before April 2, 2004 (MDH 0402XX).

SYMPTOM/CONDITION
The vehicle operator may experience a MIL illumination. Further diagnosis may determine that the MIL was caused by one or more of the following DTC's:
P0300-MULTIPLE CYLINDER MISFIRE
P0301-CYLINDER#1 MISFIRE
P0302-CYLINDER #2 MISFIRE
P0303-CYLINDER #3 MISFIRE
P0304-CYLINDER #4 MISFIRE
P0305-CYLINDER #5 MISFIRE
P0306-CYLINDER #6 MISFIRE
DIAGNOSIS
Using a Scan Tool (DRBIII(R)) with TechCONNECT and the appropriate Diagnostic Procedures, verify all engine systems are functioning as designed. If DTCs are present, other than those listed above, record them on the repair order and repair as necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin.
If the vehicle operator describes or experiences the Symptom/Condition, perform Repair Procedure 1 and if necessary, Repair Procedure 2.
If an "Authorized Modification Label" is present and states that Service Bulletin 18-016-04 has been performed, it is not necessary to perform Repair Procedure 2.
PARTS REQUIRED
PARTS INFORMATION
Qty.Part No.Description
6SPRE14PLP5Spark Plug (04686742AD)
104686710AACable/lgnition (Cylinder #1)
104686734AACable/lgnition (Cylinder #2)
104686737AACable/lgnition (Cylinder #3)
104686738AACable/lgnition (Cylinder #4)
104686740AACable/lgnition (Cylinder #5)
104686741AACable/lgnition (Cylinder#6) AR (1)
AR (1)04275086ABLabel, Authorized Modification
AR (1)05011058AALabel, Authorized Software Update (Markets Outside the United States and Canada)

SPECIAL TOOLS/EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
NPN Battery Charger
CH2002 General Purpose Interface Bus Cable Assembly
CH6000A Scan Tool (DRBIII(R))
CH7000A/7001A J1962 Cable with Red DRBIII(R)
TechCONNECT Workstation
NOTE:An updated J1962 cable has been released. This cable has a red colored connector at the DRBIII(R) connection. Use this cable whenever a flash is being preformed.

REPAIR PROCEDURE 1
Replace spark plugs and ignition cables
Replace the spark plugs and ignition (spark plug) cables. Refer to the service information available in TechCONNECT or the Town & Country and Caravan service manual (publication no. 81-370-04062CD), page 81-10.
If Service Bulletin 18-016-04 has not been performed, proceed to Repair Procedure 2. If Service Bulletin 18-016-04 has been performed, no further action is necessary.
REPAIR PROCEDURE 2
Flash Reprogram PCM
NOTE:Whenever a controller is programmed, the software in the DRBIII(R) must be programmed with the latest revision level available.

NOTE:If this flash process is interrupted/aborted, the flash should be restarted and then follow the directions on the DRBIII(R).

Before beginning the reprogramming procedure, remove any old flash reprogramming files from the DRBIII(R) memory. To clear the memory from the MAIN MENU:
Simultaneously press the "MORE" and "YES" keys.
A screen will appear requesting a "COLD BOOT".
Follow the on screen instructions by selecting the "F4" key.
When the DRBIII(R) reboots to the MAIN MENU, proceed to Step #2
With the ignition switch in the "RUN" position, determine the original part number of the PCM currently in the vehicle. Using the DRBIII(R) select:
"DRBIII(R) Standalone"
"1998 - 2004 Diagnostics"
"All (Except Below)"
"Engine"
"Module Display"
Record the "PCM part #" on the repair order for later reference.
Connect the DRBIII(R) to TechCONNECT. Open TechTOOLS and verify that the "DRBIII(R) Status: Connected" message is in the upper right corner of the TechTOOLS screen.
Enter the "PCM part #" recorded in Step #2 in the "Parts Criteria" area and select "Show Updates". TechTOOLS will populate the appropriate calibration.
Select the calibration.
Select the "DRBIII" radio button which is next to the "Download/Update" button.
Select the "Download/Update" button.
Monitor the "Flash Download/Update Progress" window on the TechCONNECT and follow the instructions on TechCONNECT. When the flash process is complete, proceed to Step #9.
Disconnect the DRBIII(R) from TechCONNECT.
Open the hood, install a battery charger and verify battery state is above 12.5 volts.
Connect the DRBIII(R) to the vehicle.
Download the flash from the DRBIII(R) to the vehicle. Using the DRBIII(R) select:
"Vehicle Flash"
Follow the directions on the DRBIII(R) screen. When the flash process is complete, proceed to Step #13.
NOTE:Due to the PCM programming procedure, a DTC may be set in other modules (TCM, BCM, MIC, SKIM, etc.) within the vehicle, if so equipped. Some DTC's may cause the MIL to illuminate. Check all modules using "Module Scan", record the DTC's, and erase these DTC's prior to returning the vehicle to the customer. Erase any DTC's in the PCM only after all other modules have had their DTC's erased.

NOTE:The following step is required by law.

Type the necessary information on the "Authorized Modification Label" p/n 04275086AB and attach near the VECI label

POLICY
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.

You need to check oil levels under the same condition's each time you check, hot/cold oil will give different level reading's ...

Hope this helps .. let me know


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/266999_AAA2_737.png

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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:03 AM (Merged)
Tiny
MATT PINSON
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
  • 2005 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
  • 3.3L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 120,000 MILES
Engine runs rough-REALLY rough- from startup all the way up to highway speeds. No check engine light came on for several days while emergency driving and trying to troubleshoot, but now stays on and flashes every time it's driven. Misfire gets worse when a/c turned on. Have checked/replaced plugs, wires, coil pack, pcm, wiring harness to injectors(for burning/melting/shorting). Pretty much ruled out a bad injector since the misfire never gets better at any speed, nor when I let off the throttle, but am about to test ohms with multimeter now. Dies/stalls at stops unless the 2-foot gas/brake method is applied. Does not overheat. No water in oil. Acts just like a bad distributor on motors so equipped. Ran perfect when parked for work one day; then this, out of nowhere. Did I somehow blow the head gasket while parked? I'm no stranger to mechanics, but this one has me perplexed beyond belief. Please help!
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:05 AM (Merged)
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Hi Matt,

We need to start by finding out which cylinder is misfiring by scanning the computer and getting the codes then we can start narrowing in on the issue.

Couple issues with what you stated. First, injectors could still be the issue because if they are hung open overfueling then your misfire will not get any better with speed or decelerating. Also, the flashing check engine light means you are potentially doing damage to the engine or exhaust so you want to limit the amount of driving you are doing with this or you will have a larger problem.

Let me know what codes you have and then we can dig deeper. Thanks
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:05 AM (Merged)
Tiny
MATT PINSON
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Cylinder 1. It did throw the random cylinder misfire code once, but has maintained cylinder 1 misfire all along.
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:05 AM (Merged)
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Okay. Great, we need to switch things from cylinder 1 to the opposite bank to see if when we swap something the misfire follows. This is the easiest and cheapest way to prove what component is causing your issue. If you already replaced the plugs, swap the injector and see if the misfire stays on cylinder one.

If it does, then take a compression reading on cylinder 1 and then at least two more just to level set. If it is not the injectors, then I suspect you have a mechanical issue (valve or piston ring).

Let me know what you find and we can go from there.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:05 AM (Merged)
Tiny
THEELABEAU
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2003 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
  • 6 CYL
  • AWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 75,000 MILES
Our van has been driving rough, hesitates at take off and sounds like it skips a bit at idle. Runs fine at a normal operating speed. Now the check engine light came on. I know that a computer check is in order, but does it sound like a plug issue? Any other obvious reasons?

Thanks
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:05 AM (Merged)
Tiny
DANNY L
  • MECHANIC
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I'm Danny.

It could actually be a few things related to the ignition system. The first thing you need to do is retrieve the check engine light code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. Auto parts stores like AutoZone can check your codes for free and also have a tool loaner program and can rent you a scanner-code-reader. Here is a tutorial showing how to check diagnostic codes stored in your vehicle:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Once you perform this procedure let us know the code number or information and we can then properly diagnose your cylinder misfire issue. Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:05 AM (Merged)
Tiny
HIGGALO
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2002 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
  • 13,000 MILES
I have 2002 town and country 3.8 with 130,000 miles on it. I drove it one day and everything was fine. Parked it, went to a store, came out, started it and it was running rough. On the way home it was pretty bad, can was loosing power and shaking. Took it to my mechanic. He said it was showing a misfire on one of the cylinders, he also made the engine misfire purposely and notice the computer was not picking up the misfire, so he put in a new computer, plugs, wires, coil, I think a fule injector, changed the whole wire harness from the computer to the engine because the old one was melted and all the wires exposed. Compression was ok. It is still running the same, and still misfiring. He said the fuel is running lean? I drove it the other day and noticed that on the highway at a steady 55mph the can seeme fine. When I would accelerate, around 2000 rmp, the problem was very pronounced. Once I got over 60 mph it seemed ok again. The problem still exists when driving normal in the city. I've dropped $860 so far and am looking for any advice. Should I give up? Is this a common thing with these vans?
Thanks for any help!
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:07 AM (Merged)
Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
Go to this walk thru link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-misfires-or-runs-rough
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:07 AM (Merged)
Tiny
HIGGALO
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I had a broken valve spring which fixed it
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:07 AM (Merged)
Tiny
M.FORD56
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 2001 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
  • 150,000 MILES
I have changed the oil oil filter spark plugs and wires and coil pack what else can fix it
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:07 AM (Merged)
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,916 POSTS
If we could diagnose it over a computer, mechanics and doctors wouldn't be needed. The biggest part of their job is to diagnose the cause of a problem, then they spend a little time fixing it.

You need three things to get power from a cylinder, fuel / air, spark, and compression. Missing any of those creates a misfire that is detected by the Engine Computer. Replacing random parts is the most expensive and least effective way to diagnose this type of problem but to waste no money, switch two injectors to see if the misfire moves to a different cylinder. Chrysler has extremely little trouble with injectors but this test won't cost anything. Next, perform a compression test to look for a leaking valve.
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:07 AM (Merged)
Tiny
GLEVEQUE
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
  • 2000 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
  • 140,000 MILES
I have a miss at idol and will back fire when taking off from a stop soom times but seem to run fine at road speeds
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:07 AM (Merged)
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,916 POSTS
Please include the engine size when asking about engine problems. If you have the 3.3 / 3.8L, a common cause of what you described is defective spark plug wires.
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Monday, February 1st, 2021 AT 10:07 AM (Merged)

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