Hesitation here and there w/flashing SES/CEL Light

[eastwind]

I've got a 2000 Venture that has developed a new problem. I've checked out this forum for other problems (like the intake manifold gasket) and I thought I might find the answer here.

Lately I've noticed a stumble or hesitation when driving. Sometimes at a constant speed (up a very slight grade) and sometimes when accelerating to highway speeds (this is when I notice the Check Engine Light flashing). I also feel/hear it when I start the engine with the A/C turned on. No codes are stored, so I don't know exactly what's wrong.

I've changed the air filter, fuel filter and PCV valve (boy is that air filter a pain). The person at Autozone that tried to retrieve the codes thought I should put an injector cleaner in the tank (I know some here don't think that does any good), but it didn't seem to help so far.

Anyone seen anything like this that might have a suggestion as to what it might be?

Thanks,

ew

[DRW1000]

Originally Posted by eastwind

I've got a 2000 Venture that has developed a new problem. I've checked out this forum for other problems (like the intake manifold gasket) and I thought I might find the answer here.

Lately I've noticed a stumble or hesitation when driving. Sometimes at a constant speed (up a very slight grade) and sometimes when accelerating to highway speeds (this is when I notice the Check Engine Light flashing). I also feel/hear it when I start the engine with the A/C turned on. No codes are stored, so I don't know exactly what's wrong.

I've changed the air filter, fuel filter and PCV valve (boy is that air filter a pain). The person at Autozone that tried to retrieve the codes thought I should put an injector cleaner in the tank (I know some here don't think that does any good), but it didn't seem to help so far.

Anyone seen anything like this that might have a suggestion as to what it might be?

Thanks,

ew

It is odd that the misfire that is being detected via the flashing CEL is not setting a code. It could tell you which cylinder(s) is causing the problem.

Sounds like you have the misfire during higher load conditions. You did the right first steps with the filters (I agree the air filter couldn't be more difficult to replace) The cleaner was worth the try. I would continue looking for fuel or ignition issues. How many miles? Have you ever replaced plugs and/or cables? Check the oil and coolant and their levels. The condition of which can offer clues.

[jhong1226]

Check all your spark plug wire, make sure there is no breakage in any boots.
Thats what happened to mine and it only did it on trying to accelerate quickly or if its under load.

[eastwind]

In a new development...I went out to start it to go to work this evening and as I backed up I saw (and smelled) a fuel leak. I didn't have time to get it jacked up to check where the leak was coming from but I'm going to check it tomorrow.

When I changed the fuel filter according to the directions I had from Haynes Repair Manual I found a small yellow grommet that I thought might've been in the line somewhere but couldn't make fit. I didn't see any reference to it in the Haynes, so I thought it might've been something my girls left in the driveway. If anyone knows whether this belongs in the line somewhere (it fit over the inlet side of the fuel filter) please respond and let me know if it goes on the filter side of the quick connector or the fuel line side. Also, when I tried to release the quick connector it came off the fuel line instead of the filter while I thought it was supposed to be the other way 'round.

Thanks again and please advise if possible.

ew

[eastwind]

Update:

Fluids looked fine and are at the proper levels.

Finally got the code to stick and left the engine running (in case the SES light went off and didn't store the code). I had Autozone scan it and it was a Cylinder 4 Misfire. Maybe I need a tune-up before they all start failing.

ew

[DRW1000]

Originally Posted by eastwind

Update:

Fluids looked fine and are at the proper levels.

Finally got the code to stick and left the engine running (in case the SES light went off and didn't store the code). I had Autozone scan it and it was a Cylinder 4 Misfire. Maybe I need a tune-up before they all start failing.

ew

Misfires are normally the result of a fuel issue, an ignition issue or in some cases too much EGR flow to the misfiring cylinder.

Make sure you consider spark plugs, cables, ignition module, fuel injector, and wiring to the injector. I am not familiar with the EGR system in the Venture to know if it is possible for too much flow to go to a specific cylinder but you can the EGR out of the equation by disconnecting the vacuum line to the EGR valve and blocking the hose with a golf tee. This should set a different code temporarily.

we will assume that there is not catastrophic mechanical issue for now as there would be other indications if this was the case.