Question2001 Hyundai Elantra >100,000 miles
Vehicle hesitates during idle and slow to pick up during when acceleration. Recently replaced fuel filter and added fuel injector filter. A tune-up has NOT been done for quite a while. Now the check-engine light is on and car "sputters" more during idle and sounds like it's giong to cut off.
We are trying to now change the PCV Valve but not sure which is the right one to replace.
Should we replace the spark-plugs instead?
AnswerIdeally, you'll want to know the trouble code(s) stored in the computer. Chances are, they will relate to the problem you're having.
Off the cuff, the description (especially the word "sputters") sounds like an ignition misfire. If your check engine lamp has been flashing, then it's guaranteed to be a misfire. Most frequently, this is caused by the spark plug wires arcing inside the spark plug tubes, but spark plugs and ignition coils would be the next frequent items to cause a misfire. With the car off, pull the plug wires out of the plug holes and inspect for carbon markings on the plastic insulation as a sign of arcing onto the plug tube holes.
It's not likely the pcv valve would be the cause of a low idle or hesitation, but I have seen splits in the pcv hose cause some problems. The pcv valve screws into the back of the valve cover.
