My son has a 2003 Protege5, 77,000 miles. He recently installed an amp and sub. He travels 60 miles a day, to and from college and work. He noticed his fuel economy and performance has declined, check engine and ABS light have come on. On his way home last night, the car quit running, while driving. He kept it in gear to try to kick start and didn't work. Parked it on the side of the road.
He stated that it was knocking when he was trying to kick start. I figured, maybe because it was turning over, but not sparking. It has all the lights and power accessories working and turns over, but will not start.
I have no clue when it comes to these computerized cars, but I feel I'm mechanically inclined enough to fix it. Could it be the alternator, timimng belt or ECU?? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you