Car struggling to start?

2009 KIA OPTIMA
180,000 MILES • 4 CYL • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
HECTORBRRR
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Car is struggling and stuttering to turn on. Has turned off on me while driving and didn’t turn back on till jump start. Plugged in scanner and 7E8: engine and 7E9: a/t codes popped up. Car is starting now but RPMs keep fluctuating.
Battery is in perfect condition.
Mar 8, 2023 at 2:23 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
These two indicators are really not codes, at least not diagnostic trouble codes. The 7E8 is an engine data menu. The 7E9 is the same for the transmission.

I'm not sure what type of scan tool was used, but there should be a "read codes" selection that will provide codes. The codes are normally a letter followed by four numbers. For example, a P0300 is a random misfire code.

Watch this quick video and let me know if it helps you retrieve codes as I mentioned:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
Mar 8, 2023 at 9:09 PM
Avatar
HECTORBRRR
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
p0106 code I believe.
Mar 9, 2023 at 10:25 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

That works. The code is related to the manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP). The amount of intake air flow must be inputted to PCM in order to determine the fuel injection quantity. MAPS calculates the amount of air indirectly by measuring the pressure inside of intake manifold. I suspect either the sensor has failed or there is a wiring/connector issue.

Take a look below and let me know if you are comfortable performing the test. Additionally, check to make sure there is no wiring or connector damage. See pic 2 for the location.

Also, this sensor also functions as an intake air temperature sensor. Either of its functions can cause a hard start.

Let me know if this helps.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
Images (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Attached Media
Mar 9, 2023 at 8:24 PM