99 Neon missing at all speeds

[JH32552]

<HR>Help....
My 99 Neon starting missing a few days ago. The next day my CEL came on. and she really started missing and stalling at lights. I checked the OBD's and got
a 12 then a 52, then a 55. (the 55 means end of errors, right?) I took it to my mechanic that helps me with mechanical problems to have his diagnostic computer check it too. He said he got the "Fuel System Rich" also. Since we live in the boon-docks, he told me to check my air cleaner for mice stashes, and to make sure all the breather tubes were clear. He also mentioned to check the plugs. He then said I may need a new upstream 02 sensor.

The air filter showed some "mickies" had been there, and the plugs had a .043 gap. I put in a new air filter, cleaned all the duct work (even made a 1/4 inch mesh cover for the end to keep any other mice out) I also cleaned and re-gapped the plugs to .035mm. No change.... so, I just got a new 02 sensor and installed it. STILL no change! The only difference I see is my CEL light has gone out, and the error message re: running rich is now gone. I have also checked the resistances of the Coil Pack, and they are all within specs.

Another thing I just thought of..... for the last few months, this car has been very difficult to start when the fuel gauge showed 1/4 tank or less. Could this be related?

The car is a 1999 SOHC automatic with 83k on it. It misses at ALL speeds, and doesn't idle well at all. Does anyone have any suggestions? After spending $65 on that 02 sensor, I have no other option than repairing the car myself.

TIA,
Jackie

[carbap82]

Dont go any further with repairs. It's the plug whires. I'm 99.9% sure. All of my cars were doing the same thing at one point in time. After the second car and $200 of looking for the prob. I just replaced the plug whires and thats it. try it and let me know. I dont think there is a way to test the whires so just try it. 83K, it's time anyway.

[JH32552]

I just found the trouble... the EGR valve was set up with carbon. I applied some vacuum to it and it "popped", now the car is running beautifully. Now I have to clean it out and it should be okay for a while.
At least, when it happens again, I will know what to look for, and hopefully will have the funds to replace it.
BTW... my plugs and wires were replaced about 3 months ago.

Thanks for your reply!

[carbap82]

Great! Glad it wasnt someting serious. Good luck!