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Hi, I have a 2008 Sebring convertible with the 2.4l inline 4 and I've been having some issues with it. I posted on here not too long ago when it wouldn't stay running for more than about 15 seconds, which turned out to be a dead battery. I've fixed that issue and charged the battery, now it starts without having to jump it. The problem is that randomly, sometimes when I go to start it and it starts, a warning light comes up on the dash. I looked it up in the manual and apparently it means electronic throttle control. I looked online and people are saying to replace the throttle body, but it's weird because sometimes I can start it and that warning never comes up. Also I'd really like to not replace it if there's a way to fix it cheaper. I can't really tell a difference in how it revs when that light is on versus when it's off, can someone tell me what it actually means and what to do about it?
And from the last time, I am able to get codes from it now. It gave me 11 codes, but this was straight from a cold start so I don't know if some of these are related to that. The codes are P0116, P0128, P0196, P2181, P2183, and P0302. What's weird is that the first 5 codes each showed up twice as I scrolled through them. I don't know why. I'm scared about the P0302 though and I don't hear a misfire at all. It's now telling me to change the oil on the dash as well, which I plan to do.
Overall, I'm trying to fix it on the cheap, but the car isn't mandatory for me to have it work, as I have another one that I use as a car. So if anyone can help me figure out what to do next, that'd be awesome. Thanks. Also below is the light on the dash that comes up occasionally. The electronic throttle control light is the red lightning bolt thing
What is the condition of the battery at this time? Chryslers do not tolerate low voltage conditions well. Suggest having the battery and charging system tested; many auto parts stores can do this if someone is available.
Also suggest disconnecting the battery for 1-2 minutes. Disconnect the negative cable at the jump point under the hood. This will likely clear the diagnostic codes and you can see which recur. This also resets the numerous computer/control modules that may have been affected by dead battery and jump starts.
All of the codes, except for the 302, refer to engine temp issues. The 2182 and 2183 note the coolant temp sensor may have lost its calibration. If the coolant temperature sensor is failing it could trigger the other temp diagnostic codes. It my be the sensor is failing but check the connector and wiring.
The codes appeared twice, once for active and again for pending.