Dodge Nitro Stalling: Bad Fuel Pressure Regulator Fix

Had a similar situation with my 2005 Dodge Journey last winter. The symptoms matched exactly, stalling at idle, sluggish acceleration, and check engine light. The root cause was a failing fuel pressure sensor combined with a partially clogged fuel rail. The sensor was sending incorrect readings to the ECU, causing the engine to run lean and misfire. These issues often surface after fuel filter changes because disturbing the fuel system can dislodge debris. The fix required: Testing fuel pressure at the rail, Cleaning the fuel rail and injectors, Replacing the fuel pressure sensor, Clearing fault codes After the repair, the engine ran smoothly again. The stalling and power issues disappeared completely. This was a serious issue that needed immediate attention, running lean can damage engine components if left unchecked. One warning sign to watch for: if your fuel pump makes a whining noise, it might be struggling due to the pressure regulation problems. The entire fuel system works as a chain, so one failing component often affects others. This repair requires proper diagnostic equipment and expertise with fuel system components. Worth getting it checked by a shop that specializes in fuel system repairs.

Thanks for sharing those details about the fuel system repair. The symptoms you described with the fuel pressure sensor and clogged rail sound identical to what I dealt with on my Nitro. My check engine light was also constantly triggered by engine misfires due to the fuel delivery problems. Would you mind sharing approximately how much the complete repair cost you? I want to have a rough estimate before heading to the shop. Also curious if youve had any fuel efficiency issues or pressure drop problems since getting it fixed?

Finally got back to update on this! After fixing the fuel pressure regulator, my Journey runs perfectly now. The rough idle and misfires are completely gone. My fuel efficiency actually improved noticeably since the repair, makes sense since the engine is getting the right fuel mixture again. The total repair ended up being surprisingly reasonable. The main pressure regulator work was already done earlier, and I just needed to pay 45€ to clear the check engine light and error codes after the new fuel filter installation. No signs of pressure drop or other fuel system issues since then. The fuel pump runs much quieter now too, which was an unexpected bonus. If your Nitro has similar symptoms, definitely get it checked soon. Running with incorrect fuel pressure can lead to bigger problems down the road. For your peace of mind, I recommend having the shop do a complete fuel pressure test while diagnosing. This will show if there are any remaining issues in other parts of the fuel system that need attention.

Thank you everyone for the helpful advice! I took my Nitro to a certified mechanic yesterday who specializes in fuel system repairs. Just like suggested, they ran a complete pressure test and found both a faulty pressure sensor and debris in the fuel rail. Total repair came to 380€, which included: New fuel pressure sensor, Fuel rail cleaning, Fuel injector service, Diagnostic testing, Labor costs The difference is incredible, no more stalling, the engine runs smooth, and power is fully restored. Was definitely worth going to a proper shop instead of the quick lube place that couldnt diagnose it properly before. Best part is my fuel efficiency has improved significantly. The mechanic explained the old sensor was causing the engine to run rich, wasting fuel. The fuel pressure is now properly regulated and steady at all speeds. Lesson learned about finding a reputable shop that actually takes time to properly diagnose fuel system issues rather than just throwing parts at the problem. Really glad I asked here first and knew what to expect.