IguanaGrrl

I have a 2000 Escort ZX2 manual transmission that did wonderfully for many years, but seems to be having issues since I hit the 100,000 mile marker a year and a half ago. I've replaced the alternator, serpentine belt, drive belt, and thermostat and now I'm having troubles once again.

About a week ago, while driving me to work, my boyfriend exited the freeway and the car died out of nowhere. No sputtering, just like the engine decided to turn itself off. He pulled off the side of the road and was able to start right up again with no difficulties. The rest of the drive was uneventful.

On random occasions, we have noticed sputtering issues. While stopped, the idle will drop almost to a point of the car dying, but it never does.

This morning, nearly a week since the last episode, the car died while I was going onto an on-ramp. Again, I pulled off to the side of the road and started it right back up again. The majority of the rest of the ride was smooth, though I experienced some sputters.

Originally, we thought it might be an issue with the plugs, but now we're leaning towards fuel problems. Should I go for a fuel filter change first or a tune up? What about fuel systems flush?

Or should I buy the parts and do it on my own?

Money is, unfortunately, an issue, so cheap and easy is king here.