Mitsubishi Repair: car wont work, coolant temperature sensor, crank angle sensor

Question
i have a 1991 mitsubishi galant auto, will start after hasnt been used for a while but will start to splutter and backfire and sometimes cut out after a short time driving at low speed also wont start after has been recently running. sounds like a flat battery but i dont think it could be because of it starting fine when its hasnt been used for a day or so.

thank you

Answer
Asher,
This problem can be caused by any number of tune-up items. Bad spark plugs and plug wires are usually the initial culprits that should be replaced. You should have your Idle Speed Control (ISC) motor inspected as well. That controls the idle of you engine when your foot is off the accelerator. Here's a general list of problem items that could be behind your problem:
- Bad plugs and plug wires
- Faulty ISC
- Faulty TPS (throttle position sensor)
- Faulty engine coolant temperature sensor
- Faulty cam/crank angle sensor
- Worn timing belt
- Worn fuel pump
- Clogged fuel filter
- Clogged air filter
- Blown intake gasket
- Vacuum leak in intake line or hose
- Clogged PVC valve
- Clogged catalytic converter
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Clogged or faulty emissions component

As you can see, there are many items that can cause this problem. I would recommend having your local mechanic give it a tune-up.
Good luck!