Chrysler Repair: HOW DO I FIX MY CHRYSLER, engine controller, code numbers

Question
I have A 1996 chrysler ceirus, sometimes it will start sometimes it won't ,,,batteries good it's just not firing ? can you help me?


Answer
Hi Lisa,
Reading out the engine controller memory for fault codes is the first step. Try using the ignition key: turn it "on-off-on-off-on" and leave it "on" (doing this quickly, no longer than 5 seconds). By "on" I mean just the normal position when the engine is running, not the cranking position. The 'check engine'light will remain on when you leave the key in the "on" position with the engine still not running. But then watch the 'check engine' light to begin flashing, then pause, flashing, pause, etc. Count the number of flashes before each pause and keep track of the numbers. Repeat the readout and verify the counts are correct. Then group them in pairs in the order that they came out, thus forming two digit numbers. You may notice that the pause is shorter between the digits of a given number, and longer between the numbers themselves. Then send me a 'follow-up' question telling me the results of your readout. By the way, 55 will be the last number (two groups of 5 flashes each) and that is the code for "end of readout".
I have the troubleshooting manual for the 2.5L engine (if that is the one you have or tell me otherwise) and we can look up the possibilities of what is wrong based upon what fault codes you show. There is also an essay on fault codes at the site:
http://www.allpar.com/fix/codes.html
which gives the meaning of the code numbers. But then you need to get specific info for what exactly might be the diagnostic tests or parts to replace to complete the repair. Let me know the codes and I can give you some direction.
If there are no fault codes then the problem could be a spark issue. If you have an old spark plug remove one of the caps from a spark plug on your engine. Just rotate the cap from side to side and pull, don't pull on the wire itself. Then put in your old spark plug in the cap, and touch the theads of the spark plug to the cylinder head. Then ask a friend to crank the engine while you hold the threads of the plug on the cylinder head, using the rubber cap to hold it with your fingers. Don't crank it for more than 5 seconds. If you get spark for 5 seconds then that is o.k. and we will have to look further. If you get spark for 1-2 seconds or not at all, that is relevant to know.
So write back with the results.
Roland