I'm a noob here, but I have a big question...

I bought a 97 Neon used from some lot. Only problem now i when I take off it' fine, a little sluggish so I've noticed. But now when the car drops around 20 mph until I stop the car jerks forward and somewhat sputters like it wants to die.

I'm lost at what it could be, I dont know cars. Give me a computer I can do whatever.

I'm told it's the fuel filter, but how do you change that?

 

When was the last time you had a tune-up? Spark plugs, spark plug wires, PCV valve and fuel filter? Might be time to give it one. Start with the plugs and wires.

 

yeah das is right. If you have just picked it up from a lot and dont know the history of the maintenance on the car you might just want to take it in for a complete tune or up you can do it yourself.

 

the fuel filter is supposed "non-sevicable"
its located on the top of the fuel pump....only place ive found that sells them is the dealership and for a filter they arent cheap, but then again the also have the regulator in there too.....

go with the tune up first

 

I'm gonna check the plugs, see what's happening there. As for the filter, from what I've seen and heard you have to basically replace the whole pump anyway of sorts.

When i filled the tank up to full I haven't had the problem, only seems to be when I hit a little under half a tank.

I just got the car from a used lot, from what I can tell not much in the way of tune ups. The people must have not been the greatest as when I got a oil change they said there was 10-40 oil in it, not to mention the windsheil fluid was only tap water.

I love this car, so I'm gonna do whatever I can to save it. Now there's a damn knock when i start the engine, not loud as of yet but I'm sure it's on it's way. Any ideas on that one?

can you tell I don't know cars?

 

you can replace just the filter.....but you have to get it from the dealership

 

If this is only happening with half a tank or less, then it could be your fuel pump overheating. But usually that causes the car to die.

 

the fuel pressure regulator is attached to the fuel filter??? wow thats new to me

 

on 96-99 neon with the plastic tank the fuel filter and fuel pressure regulator are 1 unit

 

on the 96+ models, the fuel pump is up on top?