2000 Neon, backfiring,hesitating,loss of power

[VEXED0130]

My 2000 plymouth neon is backfiring and also has loss of power. The "check engine" light is on. Occasionally there is a knocking noise in the engine. I've noticed that there is also a strong exhaust smell. Has anyone else had a combination of these problems? I'm thinking it could be the catalyctic converter. It might be clogged. Before, I thought it might have been the fuel filter, but I was told that it is highly unlikely because they are suppost to last the life time of the car. Do you think that the timing belt might be off?

I'm questioning the fuel injector now too. How can I check the fuel injectors? Do I need special tools?



Any help is appreciated. I just have no idea what exactly it could be. I have no money and I'm a tired of guessing.

[1thunder]

remove the spark plugs and look at the porcelain on the side of the plug if there is a black arc line from top to bottom you will need new plugs and wires and had a few coil issues with these also

[das2123]

Do the key dance to pull your codes. Do a search in this forum on how to do the key dance if you don't already know. It's probably time for some new plugs as mentioned by 1thunder.

[VEXED0130]

Today I tried the key dance and the "check engine" light did not come up at all. Instead on the very left of the dash, the digital reader gave me these codes:

P1684-?
P0302-CYLINDER NO.2 MISFIRE DETECTED
P1193-?


The first and last codes are not showing up in my book, but I'm still searching.....

thanks.

[das2123]

P1684-Battery has ben disconnected within the last 50 key-on cycles. (nothing to worry about)
P0302-CYLINDER NO.2 MISFIRE DETECTED (change your spark plugs with the same as stock plugs)
P1193-INLET AIR TEMP SENSOR VOLTAGE HIGH (this may be the sensor on the bend in the stock air box housing by the fender)

[zombie_tech]

Had a similar problem in my '97 neon after a bad batch of gas. Ran out the gas, replaced the plugs and wires and its been fine since.

[motorhead1963]

I would change all 4 plugs(with bosch platinums most likely)being careful not to overtighten,head is aluminum.Disconnect battery for a minute to reset computer codes.If engine light still comes on check plug wires resistance with ohm meter,and coil resistance with meter(probably need manual to show what terminals to connect to and what readings should be on coils)If there is an Autozone store near you they will check your computer codes for free without using key method.Most Advance stores and Autozones will check coils,ignition part etc for free also.good luck

[das2123]

Originally Posted by motorhead1963

I would change all 4 plugs(with bosch platinums most likely)

NEONS DON'T LIKE PLATINUM PLUGS!!!!!!! They cause lots of problems with the Neon's wasted spark ignition system.

[VEXED0130]

Thanks all. The problem was the #2 spark plug CABLE. I bought a new one and voila (well actually I had to buy the whole pack). To think, I was about to do all this expensive crap to it when all I ended up spending was 36 bucks for the "life time" cable sets.

[das2123]

Originally Posted by VEXED0130

Thanks all. The problem was the #2 spark plug CABLE. I bought a new one and voila (well actually I had to buy the whole pack). To think, I was about to do all this expensive crap to it when all I ended up spending was 36 bucks for the "life time" cable sets.

Good to hear you got it fixed cheap!

[scooter1120]

how do you do the key dance