Acceleration issue, check engine light on

JEFAFA

MEMBER
1998 FORD ESCORT
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
167,155 MILES

Bogging down pretty much right off the bat. I have no acceleration starting in drive. As soon as I try to press on the gas pedal it doesn't go anywhere and this is a new development. I've done the basics when I first bought the car like oil change including oil filter, new battery, new air filter, new spark plugs, new spark plug wires, new fuel filter, new thermostat, new front 02 sensor bank 1 sensor 1. I had the transmission fluid changed by jiffy lube and they also rotated the tires. They have done two oil changes in the time I've own the car. I do have a check engine light on and it says it's the same 02 sensor I switched out unfortunately I have noticed it is melting at the plastic connection piece. Although I don't think the issues is the 02 sensor. But one thing I have noticed is my oil light does come on and it does flicker but I don't understand it and don't know what to do about it. I don't really know much about cars usually just the basics of what I've said I've done already.

3 Replies

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good morning,

There are many possibilities and I will list a few that need to be checked.

1. Fuel pressure. You need to verify the actual fuel pressure to be sure the injectors have sufficient pressure to work.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

2. Catalytic converter being clogged. You need to have the back pressure tested to be sure it is not allowing the engine to breathe.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-catalytic-converter

3. Timing. The valve timing from either the timing belt or chain. If it is worn out and it is slacked, it could give you these symptoms.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-timing-belt-works

As far as the oil light, you need to have someone test the oil pressure with a manual gauge to be sure there is sufficient pressure to lubricate the engine bearings.

Roy