Running bad after letting gas level get too low CEL on

Tiny
IZZY MASON
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
  • 3.8L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 130,000 MILES
My van was wonderful until recently I ran my gas too low a couple of times then it started running funny. Check engine came on ran code it said spark plugs changed them all but wires. Get on freeway now check engine light flashes no code but car running funny.
Thursday, June 29th, 2017 AT 9:48 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 13,413 POSTS
Flashing light is a signal that you have at least one cylinder misfiring. It also is screaming at you to stop driving the van as it is damaging the catalytic converter because of the unused fuel being dumped into it from the missing cylinder.

It will set a code but you may need a better scan tool to read it. Misfires are not fun to trace because it can be multiple items in different systems.
On the ignition side it could be caused by faulty plugs, plug wires, coil failure, or ignition circuit failure. On the fuel side it can mean a bad or plugged injector(s), low fuel pressure, or a clogged fuel filter. It can also be a vacuum leak or EGR problem.

Given that you started having this issue after running low on fuel I would start with checking the fuel pressure and flow. Especially as it does this at higher speeds when it needs more fuel. Could easily be a failing pump.
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Thursday, June 29th, 2017 AT 10:44 PM
Tiny
RENEE L
  • ADMIN
  • 1,260 POSTS
Hello IZZY MASON,

If you would like to check the fuel pressure as Steve W. suggested here is a helpful link to an article from this site with step by step instructions and pictures explaining the process of checking the fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator.

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

If you need further assistance please come back to the site we are here to help.

Thank you for visiting 2CarPros.com.

Kindest regards,

Renee
Admin
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Friday, June 30th, 2017 AT 8:57 AM

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