98 Continental small "Jerking" when gas...

[nikodemus]

My 98 continental is making some small jerking type movements when small amount of gas is applied when traveling at any speed. More gas pressed results in normal feel. Check engine soon light is now constantly (not blinking). Is this a problem with my engine (cylinder misfire?) or something else? How can I fix it? Thank you.

[Towncar]

Originally Posted by nikodemus

...Check engine soon light is now constantly (not blinking). Is this a problem with my engine (cylinder misfire?) or something else? How can I fix it? Thank you.

Yes, that lamp indicates a fault. A code scanner will read the fault.
If you post the fault code(s) here we'll help you decide what to do next.

From your description, (not knowing miles etc) I'd guess you have a slight miss-fire. The cause of the miss-fire (if thats what you have) is yet to be determined.

Some auto parts stores will connect a scanner for free, hoping it'll generate business, others are dicks about it. You can buy a cheepo scanner for about $35 at discount parts stores, Harbor Freight and the likes. Sunday papers usually have scanner sales. Yours is OBDii

[nikodemus]

Thank you Towncar. The numbers it came up with are P0302 and said "Cylinder 2 misfire". I found the problem, now what should I do. I guess it is either a sparkplug, injector, or coil at worst. Thanks again.

[Towncar]

Originally Posted by nikodemus

P0302 and said "Cylinder 2 misfire"

Still not knowing mileage, maintenance habits, resent foul play, etc..
Following any diagnosis procedures when relying on the CEL (check engine light) for faults, it would be really handy to borrow or buy your own code reader.

I would begin the cheepo way, Inspect #2 Plug & Plug Wire. You'll be looking for clean tight fit, good condition plug gapped correctly. Clean any crap off the coil pack as well.

Next (if that doesn't solve the problem):
To diagnose a failing coil pack, you'll need to move it to another cylinder to see if the fault moves too.

Plug wires are a bit more difficult to diagnose, although if the misfire were related to a plug wire, it would most likely be due to voltage leaking to ground, in these cases you may be able to see or hear the voltage tracks.
OHMs tests can be done to see if the wire is in spec but that's not usually conclusive unless the wire is broken internally.

The Fuel Injectors wont cause a "miss fire" however, it's a GOOD idea to periodically run a bottle of injector cleaner through the fuel system.
I do all my cars at spring time whether they need it or not.

Post back your findings when you check #2 parts.

BTW:
Your code reader should have cleared the CEL and it wont light until the fault is detected again. You'll need to clear it after each repair.