I have a 1997 2.0 DOHC AT neon and I just can't make out what is going on: Especially (but not exclusively) when the engine is cold, the going at low rpm is unstable. The engine threathens to stall -and sometimes it just does-. When it happens, the "check engine" indicator is briefly lit. However, no error code is registered. I have fumbled with the cables and checked the spark plugs and the coil for spark noises, to no avail, and I have endured the problem for many months now, without any clue as to how I must proceed. Perhaps the most challenging is that it is an intermittent failure and it appears, however constantly, only in split-second stints.

Does any of you have an idea to share with me? I'll be very grateful.

Thank you very much.

 

IAC???(just a guess)
http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e6...itonSensor.jpg

 

What's the function of the IAC?

 

control idle
http://autorepair.about.com/cs/gener.../bldef_333.htm

now that a reread your post, IAC would only effect the engine when your stoped.

if you press the gas hard what happens? details please

did you check it with a scanner or the key dance

 

I am having similar problems with idle issues. I was told ALL the sensors were new MAP TPS crank cam IAC yet it idles high in the 2K range and when I start to take off it flutters then goes .. under load its fine but when cruising it will stutter a bit too. I know the passenger motor mount is 100% toast the bolt just flops back and forth in the cradle but dont think that would affect the idle issue? I am hopefully guessing my PCM is shot as my ALT light and check engine light are always on too and it charges just fine. I am pondering if Megasquirt is worth it to swap to?

 

Keep it stupid simple at first. Make sure your battery is good and holding charge. If you feel that its out of your field of experience, take it to a reputable shop and get it taken care of. I personally would start with the basicsand work my way up from there. The battery is the first thing I would check, and then plugs/wires, coil connections, and any sensor connectons on back.

 

12 Volt, it is a rather random failure, so it does show up when I press the gas, but not always. Certainly, it's much more likely to show up at low RPM, but it doesn't seem to have to do anything with accelerating. As to the error codes, I've checked it both with the 'key dance' and with the scanner.