what could it be?

1997 MERCURY SABLE
143,000 MILES
Avatar
JEANWHALEN66
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
1997 mercury sable. Engine knocks and wont stay started. Runs very rough. What could it be?
Oct 2, 2012 at 1:35 PM
Advertisement
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 41,814 POSTS
The possible list could be a mile long.
Have you checked the engine oil level?
Is the Malfunction Indicator Light showing?
When was vehicle last serviced/tuned?
Oct 2, 2012 at 2:01 PM
Avatar
JEANWHALEN66
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Thank you for the reply, oil level is fine, no light is on and it was serviced around 6months ago. When I acelerate while in park, it pops, spits it like mis fires. If I put it in gear it kills it. It is really loud..
Oct 2, 2012 at 4:59 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 41,814 POSTS
Seems like misfiring and most likely to be ignition related. Have the spark plugs, ignition coils and wires checked.
Oct 2, 2012 at 5:04 PM
Avatar
JEANWHALEN66
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Thank you so much.. I was afaird I blew my head.. I will have it checked
Oct 2, 2012 at 5:06 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 41,814 POSTS
If you don't have overheating and coolant losses issues, you shouldn't have blown the head.
Oct 2, 2012 at 5:09 PM
Avatar
JEANWHALEN66
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Nope none of that. You made me feel much better. Thank you
Oct 2, 2012 at 6:05 PM
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 41,814 POSTS
You're welcome.

You would still need to have it checked to know what is wrong.
Oct 2, 2012 at 11:26 PM