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2001 Mitsubishi Montero P0300 and P0175: Runs Rough After Warm-Up, Stalls at Stop Signs

Model: 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Fault Code: P0300 Posted: 2018-12-23 20:02

I'm working on a 2001 Mitsubishi Montero XLS that has been exhibiting intermittent running issues after warm-up. The vehicle previously showed P0175 (rich mixture bank 2) and P0300 (random/multiple cylinder misfire). It had a known stuck spark plug for about three years, which I recently addressed by carefully removing the old plug and replacing it with new ones along with spark plug wires. Before the replacement, the engine ran smoothly. After installing the new plugs and an O2 sensor in bank 2 (S1), the car initially ran well without any error codes. However, once warmed up—especially during stops at traffic signals—it began to run rough, nearly stalling, and lost significant power. I've already checked all electrical connections, vacuum lines, and performed a carburetor cleaner leak test with no signs of issues. A notable observation: after the engine is turned off and settles, the upper coolant lines appear collapsed. I replaced the radiator cap to rule out pressure issues, but during testing, these lines remain cool or lukewarm—indicating possible thermostat sticking. I suspect a stuck thermostat could cause improper cooling and affect fuel mixture distribution, potentially leading to misfires in one bank of cylinders. However, I'm not certain whether this would specifically impact only one cylinder or the entire engine system. Next steps include inspecting the fuel regulator for leaks (which I've just completed—no issues found), followed by a full inspection of the intake gasket and injector leak-down potential. I may need to perform a full teardown in the coming days. Any expert insights on how to diagnose or resolve this P0300 issue, especially related to warm-up behavior or misfire patterns, would be greatly appreciated.

Related fault codes
P0300
Comments (6)
Anonymous 2018-12-23 23:02

Update: I've tested the fuel regulator for leaks and found no issues—appears to be functioning properly.

Anonymous 2018-12-24 12:57

Does the P0175 or P0300 reappear after clearing the codes? If yes, please share the freeze frame data associated with each code for better diagnosis.

Anonymous 2018-12-24 13:34

I'll clear the codes and run the vehicle again to capture a freeze frame. Thanks for the suggestion @cj1!

Anonymous 2019-01-05 15:44

After testing, I identified a faulty PCV valve—replaced it. The car ran smoothly for several miles without any codes. However, after driving about 25 miles, P0300 returned. I then replaced the EGR valve with no immediate improvement. After that, the vehicle showed a confirmed P0300 and a pending P0400 (EGR 'A' flow issue). There was also a pending bank 1 upstream catalytic converter not heating up—though it has since resolved. This is becoming increasingly frustrating! Any advice would be deeply appreciated. I'll be awarding drinks to anyone who helps me solve this. Attached: FreezeFrame-Jan_05_2019_12-55-38-PM.pdf (15.43 KiB) - Downloaded 336 times

Anonymous 2019-01-05 17:12

I replaced the EGR valve, and after 25 miles of driving, P0300 returned with a pending P0400 (EGR 'A' flow) code. If replacing the EGR caused the P0400, it may indicate an incorrect installation or underlying issue—worth re-evaluating. According to the freeze frame data, the P0300 occurs during cold start and idle conditions. The original complaint was rough running after warm-up. Is this still happening? Has the P0175 code returned?

Anonymous 2019-01-22 01:31

Which OBD-II scanner are you using for diagnostics? Different devices may affect data accuracy or freeze frame capture.