There is a multitude of reasons a car could hesitate. Since the check engine light is on, there is a diagnostic code stored in the computer. You need to have the code read, some auto parts stores will do this for free and help you find the problem.
A flashing check engine light is an indication of an engine misfire.
Check the EGR vavle
Could be the timing belt! You can take it to almost any parts store (Autozone, etc.) and they will test the check engine light for free. Don't just ignore it!
Check your air filter and throttle position sensor
check the fuel dilevery filter and pump both in the tank
Check engine light on? If so have it checked for codes. That should point you towards a possible misfire.
I changed my tps sensor on my 2001 Dakota and it solved this problem.
The check engine light comes on and stays on when a problem is detected by the self diagnosis system of your vehicle. Generally, a check engine light is lit when there is a problem in the emissions or somthing that is affecting the effectiveness of the emissions. If the check engine light is flashing a misfire has been detected
There's a TSB on this problem.
A flashing check engine light indicates a engine condition that could be causing severe catalytic converter damage. The usual cause is a harsh misfire. The engine computer will have set a code, or codes that will help in diagnosis.
alternator light is flashing by telling you that the alternator isn't working proper. the alternator is the one that keep charging the battery. it help keep your car moving longer. if you drive without alternator and it wouldn't keep the engine running for 5 min.
sometimes the pump that flows engine coolent into the engine fails and it ri=uns hott that's just one of many possible reasons