Lack of Power/Sluggish/Spongy/Stumble

Definition: The engine delivers less than expected power. There is little or no increase in speed when partially applying the accelerator pedal.

Preliminary Checks

- Refer to Important Preliminary Checks. Testing and Inspection
- Compare the customer's vehicle with a similar unit. Make sure the customer has an actual problem.
- Remove the air filter and check for dirt or a restriction.
- Check the transmission shift pattern and the downshift operation. Refer to Transmission Controls.

Fuel System Checks

- Check for a restricted fuel filter, contaminated fuel, or improper fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis. System Diagnosis - Fuel System
- Perform the fuel injector balance test. Refer to Fuel Injector Balance Test.
- Check for the proper ignition output voltage with the spark tester J 26792 or the equivalent.
- Check the Knock Sensor (KS) system. Refer to DTC P0327 Knock Sensor Noise Channel Low Voltage. P0327

Exhaust System Checks

- Check the exhaust system for a possible restriction. Refer to Engine Exhaust.
- Inspect the exhaust system for damaged or collapsed pipes. Inspect the muffler for heat distress or a possible internal failure.

Additional Checks

- Check the Control Module grounds for being clean, tight, and in their proper location.
- Check the EGR Valve for being open or partially open all the time. Refer to EGR System Check. System Diagnosis - EGR
- Check the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) operation. Refer to the Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid in Automatic Transmission.
- Check the A/C operation. Refer to A/C Compressor Clutch Control Diagnosis. A/C Compressor Clutch Control Diagnosis
- Check the generator output voltage. Refer to Engine Electrical.

Engine Mechanical Checks
Check the engine for the proper operation of the following items:

- Engine compression.
- Valve timing.
- Improper or worn camshaft. Refer to Engine Mechanical.