Ford: 97 ford probe engine problems, ford probe engine, reputable repair shop

Question
I have a 1997 ford probe 2 liter, 4 cylinder, automatic transmission. about a week ago, my check engine light came on and hasnt went away since. lately when i start my car up, i smell gas. i took my car to an auto parts place and i got a basic computer diagnostic test done and came up as engine too rich or something like that. I also had a guy put a car starter in and we got it hooked up and pushed the button and it started but after it started, it made a screaching noise like when the car is already started and you turn the key again. Then engine isnt telling the computer that the engine is already on and the automatic starter tries starting it anyways. my buddy suggested it was the air intake control sensor but im not for sure. another result of the diagnostic test was my transmission and the guy said it could be the trans. turnoff switch or the wires are lose because sometimes it makes a hard shift. now sometimes the car will die and it makes a purring noise like it wants to shut off. if you could help me by answering my problems then i couldnt thank you enough...thanks

Answer
Rob,

The screeching you describe sounds like your starter drive assembly is hanging up. What you need to do is take your vehicle to a reputable repair shop and have your vehicle placed on a scan tool because the diagnostic tests you are giving me do not make sense. The only way to reset your transmission, if it is a computer problem, is with a scan tool. If you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me again. I hope that this helps and good luck.


Ken