2005 Kia Optima Sluggish excelleration

KEVSILVA316

MEMBER
2005 KIA OPTIMA
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
66,000 MILES

I've recently taken my car to a local Firestone and was charged a diagnostic to check why my check engine light was on and my rpm gauge was not moving. They told me, 3 months ago mind you, that I needed a tune up and they replaced a sensor in the engine which they thought would make the check engine light go off and make the rpm gauge working again. Well it didnt they told me to take it to the dealer. Now 3 months later my car is starting to feel sluggish at points when I"m pressing on the gas. I'm afraid to take back to Firestone cause they always charge a diagnostics when you have a problem with the engine. I feel if its a small issue, then I can avoid the diagnostic charge or if it could be something major. Any help why my car is feeling sluggish?

1 Reply

KNOWYOURAUTO

MECHANIC
113 POSTS

Kia's have had a few issues with the air flow sensors (MAF) becoming contaminated and causing a sluggish symptom. An air flow sensor determines how much air is coming into the engine so your vehicle computer can adjust the amount of fuel accordingly for maximum performance and efficiency. This is different than the crank or cam sensor replaced by Firestone.

To clean the sensor spray a sensor safe cleaner across the MAF element located inside the air tube right after the air filter.

Some good news about Firestone, the company is committed to zero unsatisfied customers even if a particular location may not want to be. I can get the number to the regional representative for you to either get a refund or more likely take it to a location that can find the problem. There are more avenues to pursue within the company if that does not resolve your problem. (I'm a prior employee of 5 years, mechanic, service manager and store manager)

Good luck,