Feels like the engine starts to cut out

ADAM WHATLEY

MEMBER
1997 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
2.0L
2WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

The car starts fine and runs fine until it gets to operating temperature. After that the speedometer will start to bounce really bad, then it feels like the engine starts to cut out for a few seconds then it will start working again then cut out again. If that happens and I put on the heat at max it will cool the temperature down and will stop bouncing and the engine stops cutting out also.
Replaced speed sensor and ignition coil already.

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,690 POSTS

Hey Adam,

This sounds like the spark plugs are worn out and backing the ignition system up, have you replaced the plugs lately?

Here is a guide to help you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-change-spark-plugs

Please let us know what happens.

Best, Ken

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Saturday, March 4th, 2017 AT 11:21 AM

ADAM WHATLEY

MEMBER
2 POSTS

The plugs were done about a year ago. Looking at the distributer cap the contacts are quite bad with buildup. Looks like its been getting hot in there also could that have anything to do with what I have told you.

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Sunday, March 5th, 2017 AT 3:08 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,690 POSTS

Yep, it sounds like an ignition problem I would make sure all components are in good working order. Also are the spark plug OEM original? IF not I would replace them with the ones the car came with from the dealer.

Please let us know what happens.

Best, Ken

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Monday, March 6th, 2017 AT 9:27 AM