Plymouth Breeze Has Rough Idle

Common Causes of Rough Idling in Your Plymouth Breeze and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Plymouth Breeze has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Plymouth Breeze has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Customers with drum brake systems often specify they have lost braking power, or that the vehicle's brakes are making noise. This is because brake drums do not dissipate heat very well, so the heat from hard braking will cause stress fractures. These fractures make can make noise on the brake shoes as the drum revolves around the shoes. Lastly, the brake shoes may not be problematic, but may cause a grinding noise while stopping. This would indicate the shoes have no braking material left, and the brake shoes must be changed before the vehicle can be safely driven.

Learn more about brake shoe symptoms

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle in a Plymouth Breeze

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Plymouth Breeze, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by inspecting for vacuum leaks, as these are often the most straightforward issues to identify and can significantly impact engine performance. Next, examine the condition of your spark plugs; worn or fouled plugs can lead to misfires and rough idling. Following this, conduct a compression test to check for any low cylinder pressures that might indicate deeper mechanical problems. Don’t overlook the air filter; a clogged filter can restrict airflow and affect engine performance, so ensure it’s clean and unobstructed. Additionally, assess the throttle position sensor and idle air control valve, as faults in these components can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and idle stability. If the rough idle persists, check the fuel pump pressure to ensure it meets manufacturer specifications, especially if the issue occurs under acceleration. Lastly, verify that the idle speed is correctly set, as an incorrect adjustment can lead to rough idling. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the rough idle issue, ensuring your Plymouth Breeze runs smoothly.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle Issues in a Plymouth Breeze

When troubleshooting rough idle issues in a Plymouth Breeze, it's essential to understand the common problems that can lead to this frustrating condition. One of the primary culprits is a vacuum leak, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and cause the engine to run unevenly. Additionally, worn spark plugs can significantly affect engine performance, leading to misfires and a rough idle. Another critical component to inspect is the Idle Air Control Valve (IACV), especially in automatic transmission models, as malfunctions here can result in stalling or erratic idling at stoplights. The throttle position sensor also plays a vital role; if it fails, you may experience poor acceleration and unstable idle. To effectively diagnose these issues, consider performing a compression test to rule out low cylinder pressure, checking for vacuum leaks, and ensuring the IACV is functioning correctly. Monitoring fuel pump pressure is also crucial, particularly if the rough idle worsens when accelerating. By systematically addressing these common problems, you can restore your Plymouth Breeze's idle stability and prevent further engine complications.

Why is a Rough Idle in a Plymouth Breeze a Cause for Urgent Attention?

A rough idle in your Plymouth Breeze is not just an annoyance; it signals that something may be amiss under the hood, warranting immediate attention. Ignoring this symptom can lead to a cascade of problems, from minor inconveniences like decreased fuel efficiency to severe mechanical failures that could leave you stranded. The erratic behavior and vibrations associated with a rough idle often indicate underlying issues such as vacuum leaks or worn spark plugs, which, if left unchecked, can escalate into costly repairs. Moreover, a poorly running engine can compromise your vehicle's performance and safety, making it crucial to diagnose and resolve the root cause as soon as possible. By addressing a rough idle promptly, you not only enhance your driving experience but also safeguard your engine's longevity and reliability.

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Common Causes of Plymouth Breeze Rough Idle & Repairs