Poor acceleration

Tiny
GDADDY63
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 SATURN SL1
  • 118,000 MILES
Thanks for this site to ask questions! The car doesn’t start as easily as it used to. Also, when I attempt to quickly accelerate, it bucks and nearly shuts off. However, if I let up on the accelerator and ever add so gradually press the pedal, it will accelerate slowly. No engine codes! I tried changing the throttle position sensor but no change.
I’m lost and sure I can change parts but I’d rather not throw a lot of at it because I’m planning to sell it as soon as I can get it running better.
Your time is much appreciated!
Sunday, January 10th, 2021 AT 12:51 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
I suspect this is a fuel pump or pressure issue. Let's start with checking fuel pressure when this happening and I suspect that will help us figure this out.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Also, I am attaching below the process on how to test the pressure from the manual and the process on how to replace the pump if this is the issue.
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Monday, January 11th, 2021 AT 4:11 PM
Tiny
GDADDY63
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thanks! This will give me a place to start.
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Wednesday, January 13th, 2021 AT 9:45 AM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
Sounds great. Keep us updated on your progress or what you find the solution to be. Thanks
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Thursday, January 14th, 2021 AT 7:33 PM
Tiny
GDADDY63
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Well, I ended up changing the fuel filter, which was more challenging than I originally thought, but it didn’t make a difference. I wonder if I should just go ahead and change the fuel pump at this point because I don’t know what else it could be. What do you think?
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Tuesday, January 19th, 2021 AT 6:19 AM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
I would want to check the pressure first but that is what I would think is the issue based on this info.

Click on this link and that will show how to test the fuel pressure. If this is low then that would give the proof needed.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Let me know if you have questions on this.
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Wednesday, January 20th, 2021 AT 7:17 PM

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