Hesitation when accelerating

Welcome to 2CarPros.

Is the check engine light staying on when the vehicle is running? If it is, we need to scan the computer for diagnostic trouble codes. Here is a quick video showing how it is done:

https://youtu.be/YV3TRZwer8k

I realize most people don't own a scanner, but most times, a parts store will do it for free or lend / rent a scanner to you. If the light stays on, that is step one.

Next, the creaking sound. Most likely, it is related to the bushings on the lower control arms of the vehicle. These arms are part of the suspension and are known to make noise, especially in cold weather.

Here are the directions to repair the creaking bushings if they are determined to be the issue. Please keep in mind, there is what is called a technical service bulletin (TSB) on this issue. That isn't a recall, but rather the recognition of an issue with directions for repair. Here is TSB. The pics attached correlate with these directions, and I will say it isn't an easy job. Also, the vehicle will need aligned when finished.

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REPAIR PROCEDURE:

1.Lift the vehicle. Refer to the detailed service procedures available in DealerCONNECT> TechCONNECT under: Service Info> 04 - Vehicle Quick Reference> Hoisting> Standard Procedure> HOISTING.

pic 1

2.Remove both front lower control arms (1) (Fig. 1). Refer to the detailed service procedures available in DealerCONNECT> TechCONNECT under: Service Info> 02 - Front Suspension> Front> ARM, Lower Control> Removal.

3.Area of bushing squeak concern (2) is identified in (Fig. 1).

pic 2

4.Clamp the lower control arm (1) securely in a vise (2) with bushing accessible (Fig. 2).

5.Using an appropriate tool (3), insert tool through the bushing sleeve, then rotate the bushing to expose the sides of the bushing (4) for Nye lubricant application (Fig. 2).

pic 3

6.Apply Nye lubricant liberally to bushing sides where internal bushing contact is made (Fig. 3).

pic 4

7.Move the bushing through range of motion in order to distribute Nye lubricant (Fig. 4).

pic 5

8.Inspect that Nye Lubricant is evenly distributed within the bushing slots (Fig. 5)

9.Repeat the Nye lubricant application process for both lower control arms.

10.Install both lower control arms. Refer to the detailed service procedures available in DealerCONNECT> TechCONNECT under: Service Info> 02 - Front Suspension> Front> ARM, Lower Control> Installation.

11.Align the front wheels. Refer to the detailed service procedures available in DealerCONNECT> TechCONNECT under: Service Info> 02 - Front Suspension> Wheel Alignment> Standard Procedure> WHEEL ALIGNMENT.

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If you are able to get trouble codes, let me know what they are so we can focus on the hesitation. If the light isn't staying on, let me know.

Take care,
Joe