1998 Suzuki Esteem Delayed Power on Acceleration

KIKI418

MEMBER
1998 SUZUKI ESTEEM
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
198,000 MILES

4 months ago replaced the CV joints, spark plugs, plug wires, air filter, oil change, etc. Just turning over to 198,000 miles. Still good gas mileage. However, it just started leaving drops of oil in the driveway. Also noticed that from a stop, pushing the gas peddle to the floor gets not much of a response - almost like it won't go, then it takes hold and while moving it has good pick up. But this non-existent power from a stop can be dangerous. Where do I start to look - vacuum, plugs, gas, rings, ? Thanks for you help.

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

Engine hesitation could be caused by the following:

Dirty fuel injectors (cleaning the injectors often fixes this).
Bad MAP (manifold absolute pressure) sensor
Bad TPS (throttle position) sensor
Bad or dirty MAF (mass airflow) sensor
Low fuel pressure (leaky fuel pressure regulator or weak fuel pump)
Vacuum leaks (intake manifold, vacuum hoses, throttle body, EGR valve)
Bad gasoline (fuel contaminated with water or too much alcohol)

Sometimes, what feels like a hesitation is actually ignition misfire rather than lean misfire. The causes of ignition misfire may include:

Dirty or worn spark plugs
Bad plug wires
Weak ignition coil
Wet plug wires