1997 Dodge Caravan Engine rough idle and hesitation

Tiny
JJHOOCH
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 DODGE CARAVAN
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 123,000 MILES
I have a 3.3L and am getting a p0300 OBDII code. I have replaced the plugs, wires and coil to no avail. My gut is telling me that the EGR valve is the culprit due to the fact that the engine is only running rough and hesitating when it is cold. Once the engine has warmed up it smooths itself out and runs normally. So I'm thinking that I've got an EGR valve stuck open. I just don't want to throw another ~$70 in it without getting a second opinion on it. Do you guys think that the EGR valve is the next logical reason for the problem?
Sunday, August 15th, 2010 AT 2:38 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
It could be the EGR. Rather than getting a new one, remove the old one and check if it is carboned up inside. Also, check the intake where it mounts and the vacuum line to it. Clean it up and apply vacuum to it to see if the valve is moving and seating properly.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Sunday, August 15th, 2010 AT 9:37 PM
Tiny
JJHOOCH
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Took it into a certified mechanic. We'll see what they come up with. I felt like I was throwing parts at it but I'm going to be sooooo ticked if they tell me it was the EGR. I'll let you know.
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Monday, August 16th, 2010 AT 12:12 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Yes, please let me know. What will really make you mad is if it is a vacuum leak. (LOL)

Joe
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Monday, August 16th, 2010 AT 10:47 PM
Tiny
JJHOOCH
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
It ended up just being a bad plug and wire (not the same cylinder). Go figure.
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Monday, August 23rd, 2010 AT 10:08 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
That was an easy fix. Glad you got it fixed. Let us know if you have questions in the future.

Joe
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Monday, August 23rd, 2010 AT 11:58 PM

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