Sluggish when accelerating from a stop

Tiny
MIKEBRY
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 PONTIAC GRAND AM
  • 3.1L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 83,000 MILES
My car idles fine but when I take off it is sluggish and I have a “sweet” spot I have to stay in. If I give it too much gas it acts like it has no power. Sitting in park or on the road if I rev the engine up to around 3800 or 4000 rpm's the engine will cut out. Not shut off but will not go any higher rpm's. Please help. Thanks
Friday, January 5th, 2018 AT 5:46 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good morning.

Some possibilities:

Low fuel pressure.
Catalytic converter clogged.
EGR valve partially open.
Injectors.
Worn timing chain.

Is the check engine light on?

Roy
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Saturday, January 6th, 2018 AT 4:30 AM
Tiny
MIKEBRY
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Yes, I had it checked and it indicated multiple misfires, 02 sensor and the purge valve. I checked the plugs and wires and all is good there. Checked the hoses going to the purge valve and they look okay. Have not replaced the o2 sensor yet.
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Saturday, January 6th, 2018 AT 5:42 AM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,796 POSTS
Okay, do not change the O2 sensor. It is not the issue.

Start with fuel pressure test for low pressure. It would explain the misfire codes and sluggish running.

Roy
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Saturday, January 6th, 2018 AT 5:44 AM
Tiny
MIKEBRY
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Okay, thanks. I will let you know the outcome when I get it checked.
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Saturday, January 6th, 2018 AT 5:47 AM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,796 POSTS
You are welcome. Keep us updated.

Roy
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Saturday, January 6th, 2018 AT 5:50 AM

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