Sluggish when accelerating?

130,000 MILES • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
DUWHOP31
  • MEMBER
  • 153 POSTS
The car drives fine but it is a little sluggish when pressing the gas. It has a P0171 & P0101. I have already changed the MAF sensor & IAT sensor but it is still doing the same thing.
Sep 11, 2026 at 3:38 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,540 POSTS
Hello,

The P0171 (system too lean) and P0101 (MAF performance/range) are probably related. I would make sure the catalytic converter is not clogged. Also, check to see if there is a tear in the intake boot between the MAF sensor and throttle body. Here is a guide to help us fix the problem.

https://2carpros.com/articles/repair-lean-mixture-codes-p0171-or-p0174-on-some-manufacturers/

and the cat test

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNXh1Lphzr4

Also, check the air filter, if it is clogged it can cause this. Please let me know.




Sep 12, 2026 at 9:51 AM
Avatar
DUWHOP31
  • MEMBER
  • 153 POSTS
These are the codes that came up. I have cleaned & replaced the MAF sensor & the IAT sensor. I have also to the intake boot (according tube) to see if there was any kind of hole or tear in it & to clean the throttle plate (butterfly). It Idles fine in P, N & Drive. & it mostly drives fine, but sometimes it will stutter/hesitate when pressing the accelerator. (Especially going up a hill)
Sep 13, 2026 at 12:36 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,540 POSTS
Thanks for the engine running video, do you hear that click noise it can be the high pressure fuel pump is going out. I would remove the pump for inspection/replacement, also, did you check the cat using the video?

Here is the location for the HPFP.

IF the MAF sensor code is still there after the sensor replacement, I would recheck the cat first.

Sep 14, 2026 at 5:19 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,540 POSTS
Here is the cat location as well
Sep 14, 2026 at 5:20 PM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.