QuestionQUESTION: I have a 1998 Chrysler Concorde LXI and it takes too long to start. The starter has been replaced, the fuel pump was replaced. Trottle sensor was replace. Not sure what is going on with it now. When you turn the key to start, it takes atleast 40 seconds to start, then you are smelling gas after it starts. The head gasket also has been replaced and since that about 2 years ago, still having problems with starting the car. What is the next step to take on solving this issue.
ANSWER: Hi Debbie,
The first thing is always to get a fault code readout from the engine computer to see if it has noticed any system/part that is not working well. If there are no fault codes I know of an often overlooked part that will cause hard starts and also will cause the engine to die when you slow down and come to a stop: the exhaust gas recirculation valve (egr). That valve is supposed to be fully closed when you start the car or drop down to idle speed, otherwise the engine runs too lean to sustain an idle. The fact that you smell gas suggests that the mixture of gas/air is not right so it won't ignite. It is fairly easy to clean it so that the egr valve stem moves freely instead of getting hung up partially ajar.
But I would begin by going to an Autozone parts store or similar nationwide chain parts store where they often will do the code readout for free. An independent shop will usually do it for under $40. Ask for the 4-digit fault codes, if any, what they mean, and what they recommend to do. Then write back and tell me what you learned and we can go from there. Also tell me which size (L) engine you have.
Roland
PS Please 'rate' my answer. Thanks
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QUESTION: The engine size is 3.2L. We already had it checked by Autozone because
the check light was on and they didn't find anything wrong and there
was no code. Any other suggestions? Thank you, Debbie
ANSWER: Hi Debbie,
Try turning the ignition key:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the odometer window to see if the mileage changes to show instead 4-digit numbers preceded by a P. If so, let me know what they are. That is a self-diagnositic capability that you can do any time. When the check engine light comes 'on' there is a store code to be read out.
Roland
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QUESTION: When we did the code check, the results said "DONE" Where do we go from here? Thanks, Debbie
AnswerHi Debbie,
"DONE" means you have no fault codes at present. I can email you the page from the manual which shows the egr valve and its removal and installation. You could clean out its air passages and also move/lubricate the valve stem which probably is gummy. Try that and see if it solves your problem. If you want the page use a 'private' follow-up question to tell me the email address. I am aware that the site asks you for it, but the 'experts' don't have access to it.
Roland
PS Please 'rate' my answer. Thanks
