2002 Taurus: herky-jerky engine when A/C on

I have a similar problem with my 2001 Taurus, same engine. Does your "check engine" light come on when this is happening? If so have the dealer or local parts store check the code with their computer. Autozone does it free for me. The dealer wants to charge $100 just to check. I have a misfire in one cylinder that is currently being working on.

Our check engine light is on all the time, although the engine runs fine when the air conditioner is off. Maybe it's just an Ohio problem since that's where I am too! Thanks for the tip on AutoZone!

EdwardTiffin

Good luck with it. See what the code is. If it is a misfire, it could be from many things. Start with the cheapest option which would probably be just running some injector cleaner through the gas tank or changing the air filter. Might want to look at the spark plug if it's on the front bank. Any of the three in the back could be hard to get to. Whoever checks the code for you should be able to tell you which cylinder. I don't think your car is due for a tune up until 100,000 but check the manual.

Air Filter is clean, probleminohio.
The engine only jerks when the air conditioner is on. If I just switch to the fan instead of the a/c, the problem goes away.

Thanks!

EdwardTiffin

Mine just started this also(79,000).because the plugs are supposed to be changed out at 50,000 I am betting on a tune up.Same engine

http://www.edmunds.com/maintenance/MaintenanceServlet