Low idle stalls at stop lights, sputters at take off

Hello,

Okay, so lets work the starting circuit on your vehicle until we find where the problem is, so you can fix it. You will need to use a multi-meter to do this this, so here is a link down below for you to go to if you are unfamiliar with how to use one:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

In the diagrams down below I have included a wiring diagram of your vehicle's starting circuit for reference. We are going to be working our way from the battery to the starter. so let's start with the battery. Can you take a voltage reading across the terminals of your battery and inspect Grounds #103 and #104. I have also included instructions for inspecting grounds in the diagrams down below as well. Ground 103 is on the left hand side of the engine compartment and I have included a diagram for you for it, and Ground #104 is on the cylinder head. Please go through these guides and get back to us with what you find out. We will continue on from there.

Thanks,
Alex
2CarPros

Thank you. I will let you know what I find.

Is the 2.3L the same as the 2.0? mine is the 2.0L.

Hello,

Yes. It is just the one diagram showing the Ground location and the manual says they are in the same location.

Thanks,
Alex
2CarPros

Battery is 12.46 both #103 and #104 are good under the dash. there is a box that has 3 flashing red lights. what is that?

Hello again,

Okay, that's good. Now, I need you to check Fuse #8(30A) in the Battery Junction Box which is located in your vehicle's engine compartment, on the drivers side rear corner. The fuse protects the ignition switch and the starting circuit. Here is a link below for you to go to if you are unsure how to check one.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

In the diagrams down below I have included diagrams showing the Battery Junction Box location, and a diagram with callout for it as well. Please get back to us with what you find out and we will go from there.

Thanks,
Alex
2CarPros

The fuse is good.

Hello again,

Okay, that's good. Next, please bench test the starter relay. It's located in the Central Junction Box (Diagram provided earlier). Here is a link with directions on how to do it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Please get back to us with what you are able to find out. We will continue from there.

Thanks,
Alex
2CarPros