Chrysler Repair: 96 Chrysler Sebring hesitates, dies while driving, chrysler sebring, cam sensor

Question
When our '96 Sebring (2.1 L V6 Coupe Auto transmission) is driven, sometimes it hesitates and even dies.  The RPM's will drop, even when idle.  It's a huge problem.  I had the dealership look at it and they suggested it is the CAM sensor.  I took it to AutoZone for a readout of the Check Engine light and it says "Cylinder 3 misfire".  I'm going to replace the spark plugs and wires today, do you think that will fix the problem, or is it the sensor?  

Answer
Hi Ann,
I wonder if you had any luck on reading out the trouble codes? Based on what you told me, I would suspect that you will either get a code 11 or a 54 which are the trouble codes for the timing sensors. Particularly this would be the case if the engine falters only after running for a while so as to allow the sensors to warm up which is the point in time when they are more likely to become flakey.
Roland



Hi Ann,
I assume that you meant a 2.5L V-6 rather than a 2.1L.
In light of the discrepent readouts may I suggest that you take a look at the codes directly as follows:
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 several engines 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.
I would hold off on changing the spark plugs until the trouble code issue is resolved because the process of changing the rear cylinder bank plugs is extensive. The plugs that are supposed to be used are claimed to last for 100,000 miles. I will be pleased to copy in the multi-step process required to do the plug r&r in our next exchange if that seems to be the path you wish to pursue.
Roland