Misfire problem

2004 DODGE NEON
183,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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CHRIS SHORES JR
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  • 1 POST
I have replaced the fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, sparkplugs, wires, coil crank shaft position sensor. and cam shaft position sensor. checked the timing it's spot on. What else would cause this to misfire? it's nickel and diming me. Also, it starts very hard. I have to hold the gas pedal halfway or better to get it to fire up and take up to 10 minutes sometimes.
Jan 12, 2022 at 7:24 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

Have you ever noticed gray or black smoke from the exhaust when it finally starts? Based on your description, it sounds like it is getting too much fuel. That can cause a hard/delayed start.

Also, a misfire can be caused by other things as well. For example, an engine vacuum leak can do it. Have you checked for leaks? If you haven't, here is a link that explains how to do it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Keep in mind, low compression can also be a cause of a misfire. It sounds as though you have done a lot to the ignition system, so I suspect it is either high fuel pressure, a vacuum leak, or even low compression.

Before we go further into diagnosing, check for vacuum leaks and it would be a good idea to also confirm the fuel pressure is within spec. Here is a link showing how to test it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Start with this and let me know the results. If you have already done this, let me know that as well. Also, if you have a scan tool that can provide live data, I need you to check two things. First, check the coolant temperature sensor signal to make sure it is accurate (best done cold so you can compare it to outside temperatures). Also, let me know what the short-term fuel trims are.

I will watch for your reply.

Take care,

Joe
Jan 12, 2022 at 8:48 PM