Ask A Live Mechanic- Chat Page 2

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Question:
P1682 on 2002 jeep liberty rpms die out at stop occasionally.

Mechanic: That code is a problem in the electronic throttle system. Possible a throttle position sensor or accelerator position sensor.

Question:
Need to have a computer programmed how much do u think it will cost?

Mechanic: That depends on a few things. What make, model and year vehicle, will this be programmed at the dealer, at a local shop, etc. If you are just bringing in the computer and a shop has a way to do that without it being in the car, then expect to pay about 1 hour labor.

Question:
yes thank you, i have a dodge 1990 pickup, not getting spark to pass side eng, but will run.

Mechanic: Hmm. Thats odd to only have spark on one side.Did you remove the distributor cap and check the terminals. Maybe half of them are corroded.

yes i clean them and replace module and still back fires.

How did you determine you gave no spark on one side of engine?

We took all 3 wires off and theyre was no change in the engine rpm, but we also checked the spark and the passenger side of the engine only sparks while youre cranking the engine, but once it starts up the spark goes away.

Very strange. Removing the spark plug wire and no RPM change could be a mechanical problem in the engine. But you sure spark goes away. Make sure plug wire end is near a metal surface so the spark can jump and you can see it. If your sure no spark, then you could have a weak ignition coil, or all 3 of those plug wires are bad.

Is there a fuse to keep the passenger side from sparking? or does the computer tell it when to spark? i also changed the spark plugs and wires.

wow. Does not make any sense. I would check compression on the cylinders of that side of engine.

Question:
2015 Chevrolet Malibu where is emergency fuel shut off switch located?

Mechanic: There is no fuel shut off on this vehicle or any Chevy or any GM vehicle in fact. You are referring to a system some Ford vehicles used to have.

Question:
hi i have a 2001 ford focus se wagon, it a dohc. i am having trouble getting the key out of the ignition. a auto locksmith did a new key to factory specs, and also replaced the ignition cylinder. still no luck, so somebody told me maybe it was the neutral safety switch. well i replaced it, and now it wont crank over or release the key. the gears shift fine still, just wont crank over. what do i do?

Mechanic: If the key and ignition cylinder did not fix your problem, then it sounds like the transmission is not completely in park, the shifter cable is out of adjustment, or the solenoid to release the key has failed.

Question:
No start after head work was done I had disconnected negative cable placed back on turn on ignition car turns over but no fire the car is a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am GT.

Mechanic: What kind of cylinder head work was done? Did you do the work?

Yes I had to rockers it stripped out from their post and replaced with them with Helicoil. 3.4L 3400.

Did you check for bent pushrods? Do you know if you have spark and fuel pressure? You did NOT remove the head- correct?

No removal of the head garage workbench and went back together properly I just connected the negative cable to clear the codes on module and I’m no longer able to start vehicle yes there is fuel pressure. Car before was working properly except for the rocker arms no problems with startup.

Hmm. Maybe you just left something unplugged. Was it the rear head?

No the front head 2 4 6 cylinders 2 was fixed and double and triple checked all connections and hoses?

OK. Then you need to find out if you are missing spark or injector pulse.

Yes I will do so and I also have a scan tool so I can read the codes and reset it if necessary I thank you for your time and your input thank you.

Question:
So I just replaced the starter a month ago but my car has a clicking noise now and won’t start unless jumped. Had the battery and alternator checked both are good so trying to figure out the problem.

Mechanic: If you are 100% absolutely sure the battery is good, make sure to check the cables for looseness. If that is fine, then sounds like the starter went bad. If it was a cheaper non-factory starter, then this is not uncommon.

Question:
I have a 2002 Ford Mustang GT that has been idling rough and surging while the engine is cold. I have changed out the 02 sensors, the Maf sensor, and I cleaned the idle Air control valve-any other suggestions ?

Mechanic: Check for a vacuum leak. That would really effect idle. Also, if it only happens when the engine is cold, be sure to check for a vacuum leak at the intake manifold. Those gaskets tend to shrink when cold, then expand when warm and seal up- so no more problem.

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