2002 Ford Taurus Taurus SE sputtering, going dead, engine l

LISAKAE44

MEMBER
2002 FORD TAURUS

Shakes or Wobbles problem
2002 Ford Taurus Automatic

My car's engine light has been on for a while because of a sensor issue. So now that it's acting up I can't tell if the light means anything. The car shakes a little while in park, but sputters while idle and sputters harder when driving. It started about a week ago but only did it a little. Now, it's doing it quite a bit. It's the worst when accelerating. The car won't accelerate very fast, but all of a sudden jumps or kicks almost like overdrive and is wide open. Today, the engine shut off while going around 30mph. I put it in park, turned it of, then cranked it back up and it drove fine, but still with the sputter. We had my trans. Replaced about 4 months ago, and my alternator about a year ago. What could this be?

1 Reply

MERLIN2021

MECHANIC
17,250 POSTS

First thing you need to do is have the codes read, Post the results with the code number(s). Even if the service engine light is not on, there should be freeze frame data stored.
If it won't make it, buy a cheap scanner, they can be had for 30-40 dollars, a good investment, since they cover all cars sold in the USA from 96 on.
If the light is blinking, it means possible damage to the converter. Service it right away!

If you need more help, post the codes and we can dig deeper!