Inspection/Tests
| Action
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DEFINITION: Engine power variation under steady throttle or cruise. Feels like the vehicle speeds up and slows down with no change in the accelerator pedal position.
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Preliminary
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• | Verify the driver understands the operation of the transmission torque converter clutch (TCC) and A/C compressor operation as explained in the owners manual. Inform the customer how the TCC and the A/C clutch operates. |
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Sensor/System
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Notice: Refer to Silicon Contamination of Heated Oxygen Sensors Notice in the Preface section.
• | Inspect the heated oxygen sensors (HO2S). The HO2S should respond quickly to different throttle positions. If they do not, inspect the HO2S for silicon or other contaminates from fuel or the use of improper RTV sealant. The sensors may have a white,
powdery coating and result in a high but false signal voltage rich exhaust indication. The PCM will then reduce the amount of fuel delivered to the engine causing a severe driveability problem. |
• | Inspect the mass air flow (MAF) sensor for any contamination on the sensing element. |
• | Inspect the air intake ducts for being collapsed, damaged, loose, improperly installed , or leaking especially between the MAF sensor and the throttle body. |
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Fuel System
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• | Verify that each injector harness is connected to the correct injector or cylinder. Relocate injector harnesses as necessary. |
• | Inspect for the following conditions that may cause the engine to run rich: |
Notice: Refer to Heated Oxygen and Oxygen Sensor Notice in the Preface section. - | Water intrusion in the HO2S connector |
- | An evaporative emission (EVAP) canister purge condition |
- | For proper operation of the MAF sensor |
- | Blockage on the inlet screen of the MAF sensor |
- | Vacuum hoses that are split, kinked, or improperly connected |
- | An air intake duct that is collapsed or restricted |
• | Inspect for the following conditions that may cause the engine to run lean: |
Notice: Refer to Heated Oxygen and Oxygen Sensor Notice in the Preface section. - | Water intrusion in the HO2S connector |
- | An exhaust leak between the HO2S and the engine--Refer to
Exhaust Leakage
in Engine Exhaust. |
- | For proper operation of the MAF sensor |
- | Vacuum hoses that are split, kinked, or improperly connected |
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Ignition System
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• | Soak the secondary ignition system with water from a spray bottle. Soaking the secondary ignition system may help locate damaged or deteriorated components. Look and listen for arcing or misfiring as you apply the water. |
• | Remove the spark plugs and inspect for the following conditions: |
• | Determine the cause of the fouling before replacing the spark plugs. |
• | Monitor the Misfire Current Counters while driving the vehicle within the conditions that the misfire occurred. |
• | Inspect for loose ignition coil grounds. |
• | Inspect the ignition coils for cracks or carbon tracking. |
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Additional Inspections
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• | Visually and physically inspect vacuum hoses for splits, kinks, and proper connections and routing as shown on the Vehicle Emission Control Information label. |
• | Inspect the transmission TCC operation. |
• | Inspect the exhaust system for possible restrictions. Refer to
Restricted Exhaust
in Engine Exhaust. |
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