QuestionI have a 2001 Chrysler Sebring LXI with 120,000 miles. First start of the day or after a long period of time the engine idles very roughly as if flooded for several seconds sometimes a minute or two. The idle smooths out after that and runs perfectly. Subsequent warm starts are ok. What would be the likely culprit(s)?
AnswerHi Lonnie,
It might be a temperature sensor is not reading accurately and the best way to see if that is true is by a fault code readout of the engine controller. Try the ignition key:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch to see if the mileage reading in the odometer window changes to show any 4-digit numbers preceded by a P. Let me know if such. If no numbers appear then go to an Autozone parts store where they will usually do a free readout with a plug-in reader.
the EGR valve is stuck, most likely ajar. So you need to try and get it freed up and moving again so that it will be closed when the engine is shut down, otherwise it will be difficult to start and to idle.
Another thing to check is the egr valve (exhaust gas recirculation) because if it is sticking slightly ajar it leans out the mixture and causes hard starting and poor idle. What to do is check the mechanical function of the egr valve which is located along a pipe that runs from the left exhaust manifold (on the side of the engine facing the front of the car) to the intake manifold area (where the incoming air in the large rubber tube enters the throttle). That valve is metal and has a round fitting with a vacuum hose attached, mounted on the top of the valve, and the round part is attached to the main body of the valve by a sort of saddle. Inside the open saddle you will see a metal rod (with a slot) that connects the round top fitting to to the valve body. That rod is a stem on the valve and it is supposed to go in and out in response to the engine vacuum which varies with RPM and throttle opening (gas pedal position). Take a spray can of WD-40 or other penetrating lubricant and spray the stem where it enters the valve body and then use a regular screwdriver blade tip inserted in the slot to lever the valve in and out to try and free up its motion. Also check all the rubber vacuum hoses associated with the valve and a nearby vacuum solenoid valve. If the valve seems to open (against the action of a spring) and close firmly by the spring action when using the screwdriver blade to facilitate the motion, then you should be to get a smooth cold idle. You can, once it is idling, check that the valve stem moves when you rev the engine from idle to 2500 rpm and back to idle.
Let me know if you get any codes or if the egr is not the cause.
Roland
PS Please 'rate' my answer and where you see the question 'volunteer of the month' consider a 'yes' answer if this response proves helpful. Thanks
Sorry for the delay in responding but I just found your question in the 'pool' to which it had been referred by the other Expert, Kevin.
