Car sputters, lack of acceleration, low idle

SATURN1994

MEMBER
1994 SATURN SC1
105,000 MILES

When I start my car it has an idle of about 400 rpm, and it shakes from that, when I accelerate it seems okay until I get to 35 mph then the rpm's drop and the car sputters when I’m pressing the gas, it will only very slowly accelerate when I really push on the gas and the cars at 3,000 rpm, then at 55 mph and up it does not shake or sputter when I accelerate, but it still accelerated slowly, also there’s a ticking sound coming from under the hood when trying to accelerate and when I turn off the car and take off the air box there is white smoke coming from the throttle body, I read the obd 1 codes and it came up as EGR system fault, code 32, I replaced the EGR valve because it was faulty, but it still is doing the same thing and same code, could it be the EGR solenoid?

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,724 POSTS

Welcome to 2CarPros.

Based on your description, it does sound like a vacuum leak. First, here is a link that shows how to test for a leak:

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

Next, there are two systems this came with. One is traditional the other is electronic. I'm not sure which you are dealing with. Pic 4 shows the standard type. If that is what you have, check for the vacuum leaks as I mentioned. Also, when you removed the EGR, did you confirm the port in the intake was free of carbon? It could be plugged.

Also, I attached a picture (pic 1) of the EGR system. I need you to check those specific hoses to confirm there are no leaks.

Next, on a linear design, the EGR function is controlled by the power-train control module (PCM) based on readings from other components. Pic 2 shows a schematic of how electrically it works. Picture 3 shows where the module is located. The module is what receives the signal from the PCM to open or close the EGR valve.

I need to know if the intake where it mounts was clean, was the gasket replaced, are there any vacuum leaks and any information you think may be helpful.

Take care and let me know what you find.

Joe

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