2000 Ford Focus Misfires and Hesitation getting progressively worse?

  • Thread starter Thread starter not1035
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not1035

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Hello. I have a 2000 ford focus SOHC with 160,000 miles. I noticed some hesitation when I was driving several months back. Since then it has become progressively worse. Now, as soon as I start it, the engine runs extremely rough for 45 sec to a minute before I can hear it even out and run smooth. If I try to drive or accellerate while it is running rough, I have little to no power. The check engine light came on a while ago and showed a misfire on cylinder 4. I tried replacing the plugs and wires and it didnt really help.

Today the check engine light started flashing. I have read online that it could be the timing belt failing, or possibly a problem with the ignition coil pack. A new issue is, the brake pedal now becomes hard when the car is idling rough, making it almost impossible to stop. As soon as the engine seems to run properly, my brake pedal is back to normal. Any advise would be very much appreciated. I just got laid off and I'm trying to pinch pennies where I can at least diagnosing the problem. Thanks in advance!!!
 
The flashing yellow check engine light is what you should diagnose first because it indicates a very rich unburned mixture that can damage your catalytic converter which tries to burn up the unburned fuel (see note below). So you've got to find out why the engine is misfiring.

"If the Check Engine light is flashing, this means that the engine computer (ECM) has detected that your engine is misfiring, which could damage your catalytic converter. Have the your vehicle inspected as soon as possible."

http://www.samarins.com/diagnose/checkengine.html
 
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