2002 MPV stuttering on idle

[deep]

Hey folks,

While I play a know-it-all on TV, one area my knowledge breaks down in is cars.

I have a 2002 MPV with about 155K km on it, and over the last 4 days it suddenly started stuttering and stammering at low speeds and while idling. I read that there was a recall on the PCV hose, but checking my VIN shows that recall was performed.

Master Mechanic says that there are a few problems all relating to the issue: a leak in the lower intake manifold, old spark plugs, and a bad coil. Also, the air filter needs replacing, which may contribute.

Does this sound logical? What should I expect to pay for these repairs? He also said the boots were bad on the plugs and should also be replaced. Looking at a how-to on the spark plugs, it looks like a HELLUBA lot of work to replace them myself, so it may be worth it to let them do it.

Any insight you might have would be good. I've read a dozen different opinions as to why this may happen, but obviously am not sure how likely any of them are to be the root cause.

Thanks

[gherikill]

Probably the coil packs. My dad had the exact same problem on his 2004 MPV, got the coils replaced and it runs well now.

[Pete_Coach]

Hey folks,

While I play a know-it-all on TV, one area my knowledge breaks down in is cars.

I have a 2002 MPV with about 155K km on it, and over the last 4 days it suddenly started stuttering and stammering at low speeds and while idling. I read that there was a recall on the PCV hose, but checking my VIN shows that recall was performed.

Master Mechanic says that there are a few problems all relating to the issue: a leak in the lower intake manifold, old spark plugs, and a bad coil. Also, the air filter needs replacing, which may contribute.

Does this sound logical? What should I expect to pay for these repairs? He also said the boots were bad on the plugs and should also be replaced. Looking at a how-to on the spark plugs, it looks like a HELLUBA lot of work to replace them myself, so it may be worth it to let them do it.

Any insight you might have would be good. I've read a dozen different opinions as to why this may happen, but obviously am not sure how likely any of them are to be the root cause.

Thanks
Did you recently do something? Gas? Car wash?
Check the Transport Canada database.
http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/saf-sec-sur/7/vrdb-bdrv/search/Search.aspx?lang=eng
If there was a recall, then you should have been notified unless you moved and never forwarded your address or if you never go to the dealer and they just don't know where you are or, your vehicle is not applicable to the recall.
At 155k, you should replace the plugs. Replacing the wires is not a big deal and should also be done. Plugs, about $5 each, wire set, about $60 (you can pay a lot more if you wish). Just do one at a time and you cannot go wrong. Back plug, disconnect, remove plug, insert new plug (gapped of course), remove wire from both ends, replace with one the same length, plug back in and move on to the next plug.
A fuel filter replacement is also wise, as is a bottle or two of gas line anti freeze just to make sure there is no water in the fuel.
After you do those things and the problems still persists, then we can dig deeper (throttle body cleaning, etc). All the things I suggested are good to do regardless if it fixes your problem or not so it is not wasting money.

[deep]

Well, the feedback from the mechanic included a whole whack of things, so I'm taking it one step at a time. Pete, your advice fits nicely with my beliefs as well :)

The plugs, wires and boots are going to be replaced, as is the engine air filter (just time for it). The mechanic also suggested replacing the coils ($750!) and the intake manifold ($750!) but I guess we'll go stepwise.