1996 Dodge Stratus Engine Is Arking

MARVIN SMITH

MEMBER
1996 DODGE STRATUS
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
70,000 MILES

After my car is running for awhile (10) minutes, the engine will begin to "ark." I will stop at a light, the "RPM's" will being at 1100, and surge to 1300 before returning to 700. I can fell the car accellarating by itself, once my rpm's go over 1000. In addition, I must place my foot on the brakes, coming to a stop. I've changed the Termstat, Antifreeze, Oil, Oil Filter, Transmission Fuilds & Filter, spark plugs. What is the problem?

6 Replies

BMRFIXIT

MECHANIC
19,053 POSTS

Do you have a check engine light on and if so you need to check for codes
suspect a vacuum leak and or an IAC valve

codes should pin point the problem

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Sunday, March 7th, 2010 AT 9:05 PM

MARVIN SMITH

MEMBER
6 POSTS

Thanks for the advise. There is no engine light on in my vehicle. I brought the car afew weeks ago, and prior to my purchasing the car, it had been basically abandon. I did the few things stated as well as, added a brand new battery. The car failed a State Inspection, with the Inspector stating that "the cars computer hasn't readjusted after repairs." I was told to put a few hundred miles on it so that the computer can readjust and bring it back for my sticker. Nothing else is really wrong with the car, but that stated.

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Monday, March 8th, 2010 AT 6:31 PM

BMRFIXIT

MECHANIC
19,053 POSTS

Its true need to drive 50 to 200 miles after replacing the battery
for the monitors to become ready, and to pass emission state test
since the battery was replaced computer need to relearn idle
best if you clean throttle body

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Monday, March 8th, 2010 AT 7:12 PM

MARVIN SMITH