Oxygen Sensor or Bad Computer or ??

[DIYOR]

We have a 1996 Plymouth Grand Voyager SE, which till now has worked wonderfully. In the last few weeks it has started idling hard at times, refusing to start at other times (go to turn it over and get a click, then try again and it starts but idles hard) and outright dying while driving at other times.

We did the engine code test and it came back "oxygen sensor" so we're thinking it must be that, but in looking up the symptoms online we're seeing computers mentioned.

Which does this sound like?

[B33p3r]

Go to auto zone and ask them to read your code. They will tell you which o2 sensor is faulty and why it's faulting.

[GTP Dad]

O2 sensor is bad. Simply replace it have the code cleared and you shouldn't have any more problems.

[robsolovy]

Originally Posted by GTP Dad

O2 sensor is bad. Simply replace it have the code cleared and you shouldn't have any more problems.

Possible bad auto speed sensor?

[julzr]

I am having the same problem and have changed MANY things on my van including both o2 sensors, and still it does the same thing I am currently trying to find a computer for the van and have been told to check the vacume lines and fuses. so changing your o2 sensor will not help. If you do find the problem please let me know and if I find it I will leave you a new message. I'll be working on it all weekend.

[waltham41]

It sounds to me like you have more than one problem going on. As far as I know, ( I could be wrong with these computer laden newer cars) the O2 sensor will not make the car just make a click when you turn the key to the start position. That could be a weak battery, bad power or ground wire, dirty battery connections, bad starter solenoid, or even a bad ignition switch.

As far as the rough idling, it can be a lot of things also but the O2 sensor is an item that can cause that.

When I took my 92 Caravan to Auto Zone to get them to scan the trouble codes on it they said all they were allowed to do now is to do the turn the key however many time and read the flashing check engine light routine. The manager said it was because employees had damaged electrical systems somehow with the hand held scanners and AutoZone didnt want to be held liable for such damage. I dont know if this was just at the store where I live or if it was going in to effect at all AutoZones.

[robsolovy]

Try changing the auto speed sensor, it was a $20+ part on my wife's 96 Caravan. Fixed the problem she was having, which was would stall out at intersections and at idle. Car started up just fine each time. When Auto Speed Sensor replaced, no more problems.

[julzr]

Originally Posted by DIYOR

We have a 1996 Plymouth Grand Voyager SE, which till now has worked wonderfully. In the last few weeks it has started idling hard at times, refusing to start at other times (go to turn it over and get a click, then try again and it starts but idles hard) and outright dying while driving at other times.

We did the engine code test and it came back "oxygen sensor" so we're thinking it must be that, but in looking up the symptoms online we're seeing computers mentioned.

Which does this sound like?

I just changed my computer and the van is running great again, so much for all those other parts i put in it. I hope this helps you out. The machanics didn't seem to know what it was, and after so many other parts I was feeling hopeless until now. good luck with your van.