Stalling/hesitating while driving

Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 FORD ESCAPE
  • 3.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 115,982 MILES
It feels like it's going to shut off. When the A/C is on it gets worse. Driving without A/C is no joke in Texas. We replaced worn hoses. Coils and spark plugs were replaced in February. We are not driving it because we don't want to stay stranded anywhere. The two people we had take a look at it can't pinpoint the problem. This is our only vehicle; my husband is disabled and has four appointments coming up soon. We would appreciate any help as to what the problem could be.
Saturday, May 28th, 2022 AT 5:21 PM

11 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,289 POSTS
Hi,

By chance, does the check engine light stay on while the engine is running? If it does, the first suggestion is to have the computer scanned for codes. If you don't have a scan tool, most parts stores will do it for free.

Now, what you described can be the result of several things. In this case, I would suggest checking for engine vacuum leaks. Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Start with this and let me know what is found. Additionally, let me know if you have noticed any odd sounds from the exhaust or odors.

Take care,

Joe
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Saturday, May 28th, 2022 AT 11:00 PM
Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
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Hello Joe, first, the engine light does not stay on, and the vacuum hose was checked. This thing on the list is a computer scan. My husband took the vehicle for a ride around the block and said when he hit 40MPH the A/C shut down. Let's see what happens today, going to take it to a nearby shop. We were hoping it wouldn't come to this since labor can be very expensive. But we need the vehicle for Dr appts. Any input would be appreciated. Thank you
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Tuesday, May 31st, 2022 AT 6:00 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,289 POSTS
Okay, it could be a few things. I'm not certain why the A/C would turn off, but anything is possible. Often times if the vehicle goes into a "Limp Mode" or the computer believes it is overheating, things like the AC are automatically shut down. However, when there is something that is causing it to go into limp mode, it would set a code.

The other thing I'm questioning is fuel pressure. That is a possibility if the pump is weak

Regardless, let me know what is found or what they recommend. I should be able to at least tell you if what they are saying makes sense.

Let me know.

Joe
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Tuesday, May 31st, 2022 AT 7:50 PM
Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
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We paid the mechanic $200.00 to replace what they said was a bad coil and the car ran fine for a while. Now we are having the same problem.
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Monday, June 27th, 2022 AT 4:26 PM
Tiny
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If it is doing the same thing, the new part installed may have failed. You indicated it was a coil. That should set a misfire code, but you said there are no codes.

How long ago was the coil installed? Also, if you have the receipt from the shop, take a pic of it and upload it so I can see exactly what was done.

Let me know.

Joe
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Monday, June 27th, 2022 AT 8:46 PM
Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
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No receipt took it back to shop the guy said number 4 was misfiring and replaced it. Ran good for 2 days then same problem all over again. All the coils were replaced I believe in Feb or March. What could be causing this to keep happening? Any ideas?
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Monday, July 4th, 2022 AT 7:19 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Okay, a misfire can be caused by a few different things. However, since it is limited to only cylinder 4, that limits the possibilities.

Things such as a head gasket issue, low engine compression, and a few other things can be an issue. However, let's start easy. Since cylinder 4 is where the misfire has been and the coil has been replaced, let's try switching the cylinder 4 coil with the number 5 cylinder. If the coil is the issue, the misfire will change from cylinder 4 to cylinder 5.

If you look at pic 1 below, it identifies cylinder locations. Cylinder 4 is upfront of the engine/driver's side, so it will be easy to access. Pic 2 shows the coil packs which are located on top of the valve cover.

I highlighted the bolt that holds them in place. What I need you to do is remove the bolt and disconnect the connector (make sure not to mix them up). Gently pull up and wiggle the coil pack and it will come out. Then, simply switch the coil packs between the two cylinders. Again, the wiring must go to the same cylinder where it originated, so don't mix them.

Let me know if you are comfortable doing this. Also, let me know if you can get your hands on a live data scan tool. Often times a parts store will lend one to you.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Monday, July 4th, 2022 AT 9:18 PM
Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
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Could this problem be A/C related?
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Tuesday, July 19th, 2022 AT 6:21 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

I don't see how it could be related. What is happening with the A/C?

Joe
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Tuesday, July 19th, 2022 AT 7:10 PM
Tiny
LETICIARAMOS2890
  • MEMBER
  • 48 POSTS
Well, the car hesitates less when the A/C is on but still hesitates. While A/C is on high car hesitates a lot almost feels like going uphill on a rollercoaster. Having trouble getting to the root of the problem. My husband has 3 Dr appts this month and we've been asking people for rides since he does not want to drive it and get stranded somewhere.
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Tuesday, July 19th, 2022 AT 7:32 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi,

I understand his concerns. Also, I have seen the temperatures you guys are getting. All I can say is wow. I thought 95 was bad. Also, the A/C places a heavy load on the engine, so it doesn't surprise me that it is worse.

Are you able to switch the two coils to see if the misfire changes location? We could have a faulty coil, which should be under warranty.

Let me know.

Joe
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Tuesday, July 19th, 2022 AT 7:40 PM

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