2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser My car acts as if the gas is not g

MCMILLANK

MEMBER
2003 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
63,000 MILES

It runs as if it is a put put car at times, especially when I am in park or in reverse. It cut off when I was backing out of a parking space. It runs fine when I am on the freeway, but as soon as I come to a stop or start out from a stop it puts like it wants to turn off. What could this be. I am thinking alternator or fuel injection. Your help would be greatly appreciated.

1 Reply

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

Is the check engine light on? You can try a self-diagnostic test. To activate self diagnostic program:

With the ignition switch in the OFF position, depress the TRIP and RESET buttons.
While holding the TRIP and RESET button turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
Continue to hold the TRIP and RESET buttons until the word CODE appears in the odometer windows (about five seconds ) then release the buttons. If a problem exists, the system will display Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's). If no problem exists, the code 999 (End Test) will momentarily appear. Post all codes and we can go from there. If no codes, look for vacuum leaks:get a can of spray gumout, spray the vac lines and maniflod area, when the idle changes, youve found the leak! You want the engine running and spray on the outside but do direct the stream onto the hoses, if it is a vacuum leak, the engine idle will change speed, then you have detected a leak, repair the vacuum leak and see how it runs! If that doesnt do it, you may need a new idle air control valve, it's bolted to the throttlebody