Intermittent no start and running rough

Tiny
SCOTT BECK
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 DODGE STRATUS
  • 2.8L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 103,000 MILES
Runs rough and sometimes will not start. Fuel or air issue?
Saturday, December 1st, 2018 AT 8:34 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,751 POSTS
Hi Scott and thanks for using 2CarPros.

It could be a fuel or air issue. Is the check engine light staying on when it runs? When was the last tune up? Have you checked fuel pressure? Have you checked for vacuum leaks?

The idea that it will not start at times makes me think fuel. However, that is a guess at this point. Take a look through this link and see anything helps. It discusses common reasons for a no start condition. Of course, this would be most beneficial when it refuses to start, but I want you to see the common problems.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Here is a link that describes in general how to check fuel pressure:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Here is a link that shows how to check for vacuum leaks, which can also cause it to run rough:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

If the check engine light stays on, you need to have the computer scanned for diagnostic trouble codes. Here is a quick video of how it is done:

https://youtu.be/YV3TRZwer8k

I realize most people do not own a scanner. However, often times parts stores will do it for free.

Please feel free to ask questions or let me know if you need additional information. If you find there are trouble codes, let me know what they are.

Take care,
Joe
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Saturday, December 1st, 2018 AT 9:34 PM

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