Neon's Rough Idle Points to Failing Ignition Coil

As a Chrysler Stratus 2004 owner, I encountered nearly identical symptoms. The vehicle diagnostics confirmed the engine stalling and misfires were caused by a failing ignition coil pack. The check engine light came on during highway driving, followed by significant power loss and rough idling. The main issue was a deteriorated connection between the ignition coil and the spark plug. Over time, the boot that connects these components had developed small cracks, allowing moisture to create corrosion. This caused intermittent electrical connection problems, leading to incomplete combustion and engine hesitation. The repair involved: Testing each ignition coil with specialized equipment, Replacing the faulty coil pack assembly, Installing new spark plug boots, Cleaning all electrical connections, Performing a computer reset This was a serious issue that required immediate attention, as continuing to drive could have damaged the catalytic converter. After the repair, the engine ran smoothly with proper acceleration and stable idle. The check engine light cleared and has not returned. Most garages should be able to diagnose this accurately with proper testing equipment. The symptoms you describe match the classic signs of ignition system failure.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the Stratus. Your symptoms definitely sound identical to what my Neon was doing with the rough idle and misfires. My mechanic also traced it to a bad ignition coil and corroded spark plug connections. The fix worked perfectly and the engine hesitation completely disappeared. Can you remember roughly what the repair cost you? Also curious if you had any similar ignition system problems since getting it fixed?

After taking my Stratus to the mechanic, the coil failure diagnosis was spot on. The total repair came to 95€ for fixing the faulty connection between the ignition coil and spark plug. The vehicle diagnostics showed it was mainly a cable issue causing the problems. Since the repair, the ignition system has worked flawlessly, no more engine hesitation or rough idling. The spark plug connections were thoroughly cleaned and properly sealed to prevent future corrosion. The coil pack is functioning perfectly now, and I have not experienced any similar issues in the years since. The repair was definitely worth the cost considering how smoothly the engine runs now. Regular maintenance checks have helped ensure the ignition components stay in good condition. Making sure connections stay clean and dry really helps prevent these kinds of problems from recurring.

I decided to take my Neon to a different mechanic this time based on good local reviews. Really glad I did, they diagnosed the coil failure quickly using proper vehicle diagnostics equipment. The total repair came to 120€, which included replacing the ignition coil pack and cleaning all the spark plug connections. The engine hesitation and stalling issues disappeared completely after the fix. The rough idle smoothed out and the check engine light finally went off. The new mechanic explained that moisture had damaged the old coil pack over time, which matched what others experienced. Its been 3 months since the repair and the ignition system is working perfectly. No more jerking during acceleration or engine stalling. Getting a proper diagnosis from a qualified mechanic was definitely worth it. The peace of mind knowing the problem is fixed correctly is worth the investment.