'01 3.1L intermittent missfire

[bombergp]

My '01 SE 3.1L 72k mi. has more frequently a missfire in 4th gear @ steady 1500rpm causing bucking, also at high way speeds 65-80mph feeling like a vibration. I have not got any tests for codes yet but does this sound familiar? Thanks if you can help.

[GTP Dad]

Does the issue go away when you hit the brake or press down on the gas pedal? If so you may have an issue with the TCC solenoid. If not then try changing the basics like wires and plugs to see if it goes away.

[bombergp]

Hey Gtp dad, is the tcc solenoid connected with tcc brake switch? I had that changed at 58k mi. Thanks for answering.

[GTP Dad]

Yes, It is possible that that switch could be bad again but I suspect the Solenoid may be going bad too. This isn't a cheap replacement item in this vehicle and will cost you $500 to repair. I suggest you take it to a tranny shop and get them to scan it for you. This will give you an idea as to what you are looking at.

[bombergp]

Gtp Dad; I didn't answer your ques. no it doesn't get better/clear up when steping on gas or brake. One other thing the engine occasionally dies right after I release the key from cranking. This Tcc solenoid is an internal trans part? I had the trans rebuilt 14k mi ago by the best shop in the area, past their warranty by 2k mi!

[GTP Dad]

Based on what you told me I don't think the TCC is the issue especially since the condition doesn't change when you step on the brake or hit the gas. I would start with a new fuel filter. A clogged filter will cause a hesitation due to fuel starvation. Try that and see what happens.

[bombergp]

Went to autozone, they checked for codes, none. Will have to try fuel filter, isn't it early w/72k mi.?

[richtazz]

Auto Zone can't check transmission codes, only emissions related codes.
I would try a tune-up (plugs, wires, pcv) as well as the fuel filter, both suggested by GTP Dad. When you have a misfire right at the lock-up threshold or while trying to accelerate under a load, a tune-up will usually fix the problem. Don't believe the 100k mile claims for tune-up interval, they just don't hold up in real world driving.

[bombergp]

Hey guys, finally got to change out sparkplugs and wires the other day and found a big suprise. I was runing bosch platinums for last 35k mi., single tip and 3 of them have a cavity where the platinum center once was. What the heck has gone wrong with bosch lately, a buddy of mine recently got new set of bosch plug wires that had 2 bad wires, testing showed excessive ohms.
My car's all good now.

[richtazz]

Bob and I have beaten up on Bosch so much, our knuckles hurt, so I'll leave it at that!!