2002 Chevy Van (auto, idle, spark plugs, engine)

[Don doran]

My Van was running rough it idles fine in park.When its in gear it spits and sputters.then after it gets warm its hard to restart.Once I get it started Ihave to put it in low or it dies again.

[studedude]

It could be a multitude of things. Which engine, how many miles, how long since last tune-up, does it smoke, is it making any noise, does it go down the road reasonably well, did this happen suddenly or gradually?

Just some things to check
air filter
fuel filter
spark plugs
ignition wires
fuel injectors

[HillScoggin]

It should have a check engine or service engine light on with those symptoms. Either take it to Advance or Auto Zone and get them to extract the code for you (free) and then print out the definition of said code. It will give you troubleshooting tips before paying money for parts that you do not need.

If it is capable of making the trip then go down and pay the deposit and rent their OBD II scanner. It is simple to use. When done they will refund your deposit 100 percent

[drjones96]

A 2002 should be getting close to 100k miles no? That's the recommended period for some maintenance. The platinum plugs are supposed to be swapped out, tranny serviced, etc. Look at your manual and see when your scheduled maintenance is for those items.

FYI - I have a 2002 Suburban and it's coming up on 100k soon (95k). It idles a little rougher than it did when I got it 5 years ago. Other than regular oil/oil filter/air filter changes the engine hasn't been touched. I'll take it in after Christmas to get a full run up.