1996 Dodge Avenger Won't idle and runs very rough

DANW1979

MEMBER
1996 DODGE AVENGER

Engine Performance problem
1996 Dodge Avenger 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic

Hi all. Recently my '96 2.5 Avenger has started spitting out trouble codes for sensors, here's what I've replaced, MAP, VSS, IAC, EGR. I also found vacuum leaks at the EGR pipe gasket and the EGR valve gasket. I put a new distributor in it about a year ago. It was running fine when it was warm but not at idle. I took it to a kid my daughter knows who's supposed to be a mechanic(live and learn) to see if he could find out why it keeps setting codes, the MAP code this time again. Now it won't idle at all and runs very rough(undrivable). He said he was checking the voltage at the MAP connector with a volt/ohm meter and was sticking BOTH (+ -) probes in the connector instead of an engine ground for the negative! Is it possible the PCM was going bad and he finished it off? Thanks for any help. Dan

3 Replies

LEGITIMATE007

MECHANIC
5,121 POSTS

Possibly, the computer is what grounds all of these sensors. Check the wiring for the mapp sensor, could be frayed or even burn from the exhaust manifold etc. Check the vacuum hose going to it too. For crack or hole.

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Friday, September 24th, 2010 AT 10:08 AM

DANW1979

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Thanks legitimate007, This is a Mitsubishi engine, no hoses to the MAP, it's in the upper manifold and there doesn't appear to be any damage to the wiring and I can't get voltage readings at the MAP since it won't idle unless I screw with it for about 15 minutes to warm it up then it's a VERY rough idle so the readings might not mean anything. I just wondered if the PCM will spit out bad readings(codes) if it's going bad insted of the sensors. I hate to sink more money into this thing but then again I don't want to get rid of it. Thanks

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Friday, September 24th, 2010 AT 7:28 PM

LEGITIMATE007

MECHANIC
5,121 POSTS

That is always a possibility with the computer, they wont ground the sensors so that they work properly, I would try one from the salvage yard, as opposed to try to by a reman. Or new one. It'll save you big bucks, with the same outcome

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Monday, September 27th, 2010 AT 7:06 AM