Power loss and starter malfunction?

LOSREZ82

MEMBER
2008 CHRYSLER SEBRING
2.4L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
173,027 MILES

2.4L SFI DOHC engine.

Hello, this is the car with the problems.

At first it was acting like it was misfiring. And it had a code. Misfire #4. P0304.

And it also had this other code.

P0456. Evap something small it said. Not sure about that, I checked all the hoses, and I can’t find anything that looks damaged. And the gas cap just be sure.

So, I checked the plugs, and they were all a bit dirty, and I saw an oil line on the plugs for three of them.

And I had already replaced the valve cover gasket maybe a couple years ago. But either way I went and replaced it again and new plugs.

And it’s still having the same issue with power. And if I rev the engine to try to give it more go, all of a sudden, the starter engages and makes a horrible noise. So obviously I shut it off, but the starter continues to spin for about 10-15 seconds then it stops.

Now I reset the codes after I changed the plugs and gasket to start fresh. And after starting it multiple times it still doesn’t throw a code. “Yet” so, I’m not sure if I should start throwing money at the starter and the coils for the plugs. (Because those are not $10 a piece).
Does this sound familiar?

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,320 POSTS

Hi,

A misfire is common, but the starter issue isn't. Do you mean after the engine was running, the starter engaged by itself and then didn't stop turning the engine for approximately 10 to 15 seconds later?

This vehicle has what is called a totally integrated power module (TIPM). The TIPM is what triggers the starter when requested. (See pics below) It isn't uncommon for the connector pins to break, corrode, or fail at the connection causing problems.

Let me know if I correctly understood what happened with the starter so I know what direction to point you in

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

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Thursday, February 8th, 2024 AT 3:46 PM

LOSREZ82

MEMBER
2 POSTS

In regards to the starter staying on. Yes, when you start the vehicle and it’s running for a minute or so, out of nowhere, the starter turns on by itself and makes a horrible noise. The first time that it happened it stayed on, and I couldn’t get it to shut off until I disconnected the battery. And then when I put the battery back on, it did not engage again until I started the car again.
And just to refer to what I had said, how it stays on for 10 to 15 seconds. That time is not the same, it changes, like maybe something is sticking.

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Friday, February 9th, 2024 AT 5:30 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,320 POSTS

Hi,

To me, that indicates power is being sent when it isn't wanted. If possible, locate the starter motor. You will find three wires going to it. Check both the condition of the wiring's insulation (rubber part covering the wire itself) and make sure both connections are tight and not able to touch each other at any point.

The red wires at the starter have power at all times. The smaller yellow wire only should have power when the key is in the start position. If in some way the red wires are able to short to the yellow wire, the starter will engage. Where the wires connect on the starter is a cover. (See pic below) Confirm that isn't melted. I've seen them melt, and come loose, and this happens, but that is not in any way a common occurrence. Do not disconnect anything at the starter without first disconnecting the negative battery terminal at the battery.

If there are no issues at that point, then my first suspect is the TIPM as previously mentioned or the connector at the TIPM.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

joe

See pic below

Image (Click to make bigger)