1998 Protege low idle 1.5l engine
 

my 98 Protege stalls almost every time I press the clutch pedal in. engine light sometimes flashes, other times it stays on constantly, and at times it is not on at all. Car runs ok out on the hwy as long as it is under load. If just idlin along, say going down hill, it tends to hitch. There is also a black sooty substance that collects on the rear bumper. Gas mileage is terrible. Please help.

Thks,
Chris

well the one i just got has the low idle and stalling problems...im gonna just mess with my idle set screw to keep it rvin at about 1000-1500 rpms.

yours is different cause mine doesnt have soot.