Checking Fuel Pressure: 06 Pt Cruiser Guide

Checking the fuel pressure on a 2006 PT Cruiser can be a little tricky as it doesn't have a Schrader valve. One way to do it is to let the vehicle sit for 12+ hours so that the pressure bleeds off through the fuel pump back into the tank. Alternatively, you can locate the fuel filter and slowly release the line from it to release the pressure. Make sure to wear eye protection and use rags to cover the fuel from running out.

Removing the plastic hard line supplying the fuel rail

To remove the plastic hard line supplying the fuel rail on a 2006 PT Cruiser, you will need to disconnect the frame rail fuel supply line connector between the fuel supply line and the fuel rail. This will allow you to release the pressure in the fuel system.

WARNING: The fuel system is under constant pressure, even with the engine off. Testing or servicing any fuel system hose, fitting, or line without first releasing the pressure can result in possible serious or fatal injury.

Turn the ignition off, then wait 12+ hours for the pressure to bleed off through the fuel pump back into the tank. Alternatively, you can locate the fuel filter and slowly release the line from it to release the pressure. Make sure to wear eye protection and use rags to cover the fuel from running out.

Once the pressure is released, you can proceed to remove the plastic hard line supplying the fuel rail. You may need to refer to a repair manual for specific instructions on how to remove the line, as it may require special tools or techniques. It is important to note that working on a fuel system can be dangerous, and it is always best to consult a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any part of the process.

Locating the fuel filter

To locate the fuel filter on a 2006 PT Cruiser, you need to find the fuel pump module, which is inside the fuel tank. The fuel filter is part of the pump and cannot be replaced separately.

To access the fuel filter, you will need to remove the fuel pump assembly from the fuel tank. This is a time-consuming process and typically takes at least 1.6 hours to complete.

It is important to note that fuel filters are not normally serviced or replaced as they do not have a scheduled maintenance interval. However, if you suspect fuel contamination, you may need to replace the strainers, fuel pressure regulators, or even clean or replace the fuel tank.

Checking for power at the fuel pump module

To check for power at the fuel pump module of your 06 PT Cruiser, you will need to enlist the help of another person. Position yourself down low and near the right rear wheel. Have your helper turn the ignition key switch to the ON/RUN position but do NOT start the engine. You should hear the fuel pump run for 1-2 seconds and then stop. If the pump runs, check for fuel pressure at the fuel rail in the engine compartment. You can rent a fuel system pressure tester from an auto parts store. If the pump does not run, check the wiring for power at the fuel pump module.

The connector for the fuel pump module is located on top of the fuel tank. The ground for the fuel pump module on the 08 PT Cruiser is at the left front inner fender.

If you are not getting power to the fuel pump module, check the ASD relay and clean all grounds, which are on the left inner fender well. Check power at the ASD when the key is first turned on. You should have power for approximately 1.5 seconds, which supplies power to the fuel pump.

Checking for injector pulse

The injector pulse is the signal from the computer to the injectors to tell them when to open up to allow fuel into the engine. This can be tested using a tool called a noid light. Simply plug the noid light into the injector connector after disconnecting the injector connector from the fuel injector and watch it while an assistant cranks it over. If the noid light blinks, this indicates that there is power and a ground signal trigger from the computer, which is a good signal.

If there is no injector pulse while cranking the engine over, check for power going to the injectors key and while cranking (this could be a faulty relay, blown fuse or a wiring issue). It may also be that the computer is not sending the ground signal to the injectors. The computer uses several inputs to determine injector pulse width and ground the injectors while cranking, for example, the throttle position sensor, engine speed sensor(s), MAP or MAF sensor, and even the engine coolant temperature sensor. If you have confirmed there is no injector pulse using a noid light, you will need to first determine if the computer is powered up and awake with the key on, and then check the inputs from these sensors as needed.

Checking for spark

Park Your Car and Gather Tools: Find a spacious and well-lit area to work, and turn off your vehicle. Gather the necessary tools, including wrenches, a multimeter, a test light, and a spark plug tester.

Disable the Fuel System: Remove the fuel pump fuse or relay to prevent fuel from being pumped into the cylinders while the ignition system is disabled. This step is crucial to avoid flooding your engine.

Test Spark Plug Wires: Spark plug wires carry high voltage, so exercise extreme caution. Insert a spark plug tester into the plug boot and ground it on a clean, unpainted metal part of the engine. Ask someone to crank the engine and watch for a spark. If all wires spark, proceed to check for timing issues. If there's no spark, you may have an electrical problem in your ignition system.

Check for Timing Issues: Locate your distributor cap by tracing the spark plug wires. Remove the distributor cap and ask a helper to crank the engine. If the distributor isn't turning, you may have a broken timing belt or chain.

Locate and Test the Ignition Coil: The ignition coil generates high voltages to fire the spark plugs. With the ignition key turned on but the engine not cranked, locate the ignition coil and its three attached wires: a thin power (positive) wire, a thin ground (negative) wire, and a thick coil wire.

Check the positive wire for power using a test light. If there's no power, the ignition coil isn't receiving current, and you should check the wiring from the ignition switch for breaks.

Next, locate the negative or ground wire attached to the engine coil and check for power with the test light. If the light doesn't come on, trace the length of this wire and repair any breaks.

With the engine cranking, observe the test light. If it flickers, trace the negative wire to the ignition module, repairing any breaks. If there are no breaks and the test light flickers, use an Ohm meter to test the resistance of the ignition coil. Refer to your service manual for the specified resistance values. If the coil doesn't register the proper resistance, it needs replacement.

Check the Distributor and Ignition Module: Locate the pulse generator on the distributor, where wiring comes in from the ignition module. Connect an A/C voltmeter to the wire pair at the pulse generator and crank the engine. If there's no current, the pulse generator may have malfunctioned and needs replacement. If there's a current, the pulse generator is likely functioning correctly, indicating a potential issue with the ignition module.

Suspect the ECM: If all other components are functioning and there are no breaks in the wiring system, the issue may lie with the Engine Control Module (ECM). At this point, it's advisable to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic for further diagnosis.

Frequently asked questions