Lincoln 1997 town car.

Idles great,but about 45 mph starts sputtering and and not running smoothly.The check engine lite is on all time. Anything I can do my self which might cure this problem? It just passed emissions test Jan 20,2007.Need some tips.Thx,Cecil

 

Go to your local auto parts store and they should be able to check the fault codes for your check engine light. That will give you an idea of where the problem is coming from. A misfire is most of the time caused by the ignition system (spark plugs, wires, distributor cap, rotor or coil ), But it could also be something like a fuel filter or a clogged convertor. Start with the easy stuff.

 

I checked the air filter and it was very dirty,I beat the dirt out of it and reinstalled it and the check engine lite was off.I put a new one in and it was ok the rest of the day.This morning I tried spraying carb. cleaner in the breather and followed with a small amount of wd40 and it seemed to run a little better,for a mile or two.Then it started running a little rough again and the check engine lite started flashing.Then after a mile or so it stayed on constantly.Auto Zone checked the codes and said #4 cylinder shows a problem.Could be wire or plug.Wires are ten years old and plugs may be also.Any more tips?Cecil.

 

Knowing what codes you got would be a big help.

 

He didn't tell me what the code was he got. Sorry!.I ordered a set of plugs and a set of plug wires yesterday.I thought it was about time to replace them.Cecil.

 

Never hurts to hit the routine stuff in any event.