Code P0164, power loss, will not accelerate over 20 MPH and bogs

Tiny
JASMINE COOK
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER
  • 4 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 100,000 MILES
Before assuming the worst, could my problem possibly just be a bad connection?

I just changed my spark plugs, and hoses. Maybe it messed with a sensor?
Car won't accelerate over 20 MPH, stalls, bogs, loses power when downshifting and RPMs won't go over 1 1/2.
Tried cleaning out CAT.

Again could it do with a bad connection in TIPM, considering I changed it a few months back, and noticed a possible loose connection. There's also a relay with bolt holding it in, is this the possible cause? Only code is a cell sensor p0164.
Friday, June 11th, 2021 AT 6:12 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,192 POSTS
Hi,

The P0164 is related to a high voltage signal from a third oxygen sensor which this vehicle doesn't have. You didn't indicate turbo, so I am looking through the info for a 2.4L non-turbo.

Did the problem just start after the plugs were replaced? Also, if you remove the oxygen sensor on the exhaust manifold (see pic 1), does the vehicle run any better? If it doesn't, then chances are it isn't a plugged converter.

The code you provided really isn't relevant for this vehicle, so I'm not sure why it's showing. Let me know if this existed before the plugs. If it did, I need you to check fuel pressure. It could be low.

Here is a link that explains how to test fuel pressure and the regulator.

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

Let me know as much as you can.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
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Saturday, June 12th, 2021 AT 9:37 PM
Tiny
JASMINE COOK
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
It wasn't nearly as bad before I changed the spark plugs.

*I hooked up a fancy code reader to it and this is what popped up. P1604 x2, P0032 x2, U0101
I haven't tried taking off exhaust manifold yet, or testing fuel pressure but will try first thing in morning. Just thought I'd update you with the codes.
Also, if I got a pcm from pick a part, can I just install it myself?
Appreciate the help.
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Tuesday, June 15th, 2021 AT 8:32 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,192 POSTS
Hi,

Based on the codes, it does seem the PCM is bad. The P1604 indicates an internal fault within the PCM. The U0101 indicates no communication with the PCM. The P0032 is related to an oxygen sensor which doesn't seem as though that is the main concern at this time.

As far as getting a PCM from another vehicle, it can't just be plugged in and work. It will need to be programmed for your vehicle. Also, it will need to be one having the same part number. Programing will likely need to be done by a dealership having the proper software to do it.

Interestingly, I recently had to purchase one for my vehicle, a Dodge. It was from a site called carcomputerexchange. Com. I provided the VIN number of my vehicle and they sent me a properly programmed computer for my vehicle. It was truly plug-and-play and worked perfectly.

Also, for the price I paid, it wouldn't have been worth finding a used one and having it programmed. You may want to check them out. They are not affiliated with us, but I would use them again.

It's a thought.

Let me know if I can help.

Joe
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Tuesday, June 15th, 2021 AT 10:17 PM
Tiny
JASMINE COOK
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Before purchasing a new one, is there anything else I can try. :(
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Wednesday, June 16th, 2021 AT 10:04 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,192 POSTS
Hi,

You could try having yours reprogrammed, but if there is an internal fault, it won't help. Just for the heck of it, let's try a hard reset.

Disconnect both terminals on the battery. Next, take a zip-tie and join the two cables together and let it sit like that for about 30 minutes. That will drain any capacitors as well. Then reconnect it and see if there is any change.

Let me know.

Joe
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Wednesday, June 16th, 2021 AT 8:15 PM

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