Lost power while driving and would not stay running

Hi,

Are there any diagnostic trouble codes stored that you were able to retrieve? Also, are there any odd smells from the exhaust or smoke?

If you haven't yet, scan the computer to see what codes are stored. Here is a quick video showing how it's done:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

Let me know. Also, let me know if the exhaust sounds like it could be plugged.

Take care,

Joe

Hi,

The P0171 indicates a lean fuel mixture. The first things I recommend checking are both for an engine vacuum leak and fuel pressure.

Here are two links explaining how that's done:

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

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

Start with that first. As far as the other code, P1681, that is related to an issue with the fuel level gauge. It indicates a can-bus issue between the PCM and instrument cluster. Does the fuel gauge work?

Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

The two different issues, the fuel gauge, and the lean fuel mixture are not related. The only way I could think of them being connected is if there is a wiring issue at the fuel pump. If there is, the pump may not be producing enough fuel pressure and the fuel level rheostat may be unable to send a signal.

By chance, have you checked fuel pressure?

Let me know.

Joe

Have you checked to see if there are engine vacuum leaks? Is it possible for you to record the vehicle starting, what it does, and upload it for me to hear and see? It may help me.

Let me know.

Joe

Okay, I have a feeling that the problem is related to fuel. I say that because of the lean fuel mixture you indicated before. I need you to try something. See if it starts for a couple of seconds if you use starting fluid. If it doesn't, check for spark to the plugs.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Hi,

If the crankshaft position sensor is bad, it will have likely lost spark to the plugs. In that case, it makes sense that starting fluid makes no difference.

Have you checked for spark? Also, is it possible for you to record the engine cranking and upload it for me to hear?

Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

Relax, we'll get it fixed. Is it possible for you to take a few pictures and upload them for me to see? It will help me determine a possible solution.

Chances are we are going to need to get some type of extractor. People often use anything that can screw into the broken sensor tightly. There really isn't a specific tool made for this, so we will need to come up with a plan. In the meantime, spray around the sensor with penetrating fluid. Chances are there is rust preventing it from coming out.

Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

I understand. Everything is packed in there.

We need to make an extractor of some sort. There isn't anything specific for this job. There are extractors for broken bolts, but the idea is to screw the broken bolt out.

What I would try (and this is going to sound crude) is this. First, I would center punch the center of what is left of the sensor. Next, drill a 1/8" hole into it. Try to avoid going all the way through to prevent metal shavings from getting into the engine.

Thread a quality steel bolt (something like a wood screw) in until it becomes secure and tight. Actually, if you could find a concert screw, that would be great but will likely require a larger hole to be drilled.

Spray it with a lot of penetrating fluid and allow it to sit for a while before trying to remove it. Then, using the screw you installed into it, gently work it back and forth while pulling it outward.

I realize this sounds primitive, but I would give it a try. It should work.

Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

I'm glad to hear you got that out.

Have you checked to see if there is spark to the plugs? Also, if possible, could you record it cranking and upload it for me to hear? If you have spark and fuel (even starting fluid), it should run unless the timing is off or the timing belt broke.

Let me know.

Joe