I'm having problems with my 96 intrepid es, 3.5 l?

Question

the other day i was going areound a corner and my check engine light started flashing and my car satrted surging and losin its power it wouldnt not accelerate and barely moved, i got home and got the code 11 and 54 i replaced the cam shaft sensor the other code is the crankshaft sensor. if i replace that should the car be back to normal?

the timing is fine, it has nothign to do with that, at first i thought my catalytic converter was clogged because it sounded like it was and felt liek it too, but then in the morning it started and idles fine its just when u start going that i lose power then get it back again right away its like the idle just drops really low then goes back.

Answer 1

If the "Check Engine" light is flashing, DO NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE!! When this light flashes, it means the engine controller senses a problem in it's self diagnostic system that can cause Catalytic Converter Failure! As for the codes, yes you could have a bad crank sensor, or a wiring problem to either the cam or crank sensor. But my money says the water pump seized and the timing belt has "jumped" several teeth. This is a very common occurrence with this engine. Have it towed to a trustworthy shop and have them check the timing belt, timing belt tensioner, and especially the water pump! Also, while the front of the engine is apart, it's a good idea to remove the right (passenger) REAR timing cover and replace the 3 O-rings between it and the engine block, as they are famous for leaking coolant. HTH, Good Luck!!

Answer 2

well it could fix it but the is also a possibility that your timing belt is going bad. if you havent had it replaced i would consider doing that because a damaged timing belt can introduce false codes as the crank and cam arent within speca anymore, as well as break and leave you hi and dry or wet if its raining. and its not an easy one to do as you need a special puller just for the harmonic balancer. so its your choice to replace or not to replace