GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Checks

Action

DEFINITION: Momentary lack of response as the accelerator is pushed down. Can occur at any vehicle speed. Usually more pronounced when first trying to make the vehicle move, as from a stop sign. May cause the engine to stall if severe enough.

Preliminary

    • Refer to Symptoms .
    • Search for service bulletins.

Sensor/System

    • The O2S  1 should respond quickly to different throttle positions. If not, check the O2S 1 for silicon or other contaminants from fuel or the use of improper RTV sealant. The sensors may have a white powdery coating. Silicon contamination causes a high but false O2S 1 signal voltage (rich exhaust indication). The PCM will reduce the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, causing a severe driveability problem. Refer to oxygen sensor in Information Sensors/Switches Description .
    • Test for proper operation of the following sensors:
       -  MAP
       - TP
       - ECT

Fuel System

    • Test for proper fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .
    • Test for contaminated fuel. Refer to Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis .
    • Test the injectors. Refer to Sequential Multiport Fuel Injector Balance Test .
    • Inspect for a restricted fuel filter.
    • Inspect items which can cause an engine to run rich (Long Term FT is significantly in the negative range). Refer to Diagnostic Aids for DTC P0172 Fuel Trim System Rich .
    • Inspect items that can cause an engine to run lean (Long Term FT is significantly in the positive range). Refer to Diagnostic Aids for DTC P0171 Fuel Trim System Lean .
    • Test for proper operation of the evaporative emission (EVAP) control system.

Ignition System

    • Test for proper ignition voltage output with a J 26792 Spark Tester or equivalent.
    • Inspect the spark plugs for the following conditions:
       - Wet or fuel fouled
       - Cracks
       - Wear
       - Improper gap
       - Burnt electrodes or heavy deposits
    • If the spark plugs are fuel or oil fouled, the cause of the fouling must be determined before replacing the spark plugs.
    • Inspect the ignition control module (ICM) for proper ground connection.
    • Inspect the ignition coils for cracks or carbon tracking.
    • Test/inspect the spark plug wires for proper resistance and condition.

Additional Checks

    • Test for proper operation of the Automatic Transmission. Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Automatic Transmission in Automatic Transmission.
    • Test the generator output voltage. Repair the generator if the output voltage is less than 11 volts or more than 16 volts.
    • If all procedures have been completed and no malfunctions have been found, review and inspect the following items:
       - Visually and physically inspect all electrical connections within the suspected circuit and systems.
       - Scan tool data.