View Full Version : A/F Problem?
As of recently my car lacks a lot of power. I don't know if you all have ever had your intake fall off, but that is exactly what it seems like my car is driving like. Once I floor it it seems as if it is sucking way too much air to match the fuel going in to combust. I don't know what I need to do to fix this problem. I'm not sure if maybe my fuel injectors are bad, or maybe even my spark plugs, the computer, or possibly the sensor on my intake has gone bad.
I don't know if this helps, but when I rev it to about 3k and let the revs drop it sounds like it's backfiring.
What does this sound like to you all?
cbman
02-13-2008, 09:01 PM
Are getting a CEL?
If it feels like its missing mainly during acceleration, then you could neet new plugs or wires. Its amazing how crappy a car can run with bad wires. I would try replacing them if you haven't done a tune-up in a long time.
Are getting a CEL?
If it feels like its missing mainly during acceleration, then you could neet new plugs or wires. Its amazing how crappy a car can run with bad wires. I would try replacing them if you haven't done a tune-up in a long time.
It just happened recently though. I mean it could be that as I did spill quite a bit of oil on the cover. The CEL is on... naturally... hah
I was thinking it could be the spark plugs too, but my dad is trying to convince me that it couldn't be that. When I accelerate though my intake is very loud and while idling I can now hear the intake sucking in air. I have a feeling it might just be the sensor on the intake.
Are getting a CEL?
If it feels like its missing mainly during acceleration, then you could neet new plugs or wires. Its amazing how crappy a car can run with bad wires. I would try replacing them if you haven't done a tune-up in a long time.
Oh and the plugs are about 60k miles old.
Turbo Zetec 'tour
02-13-2008, 10:16 PM
Oh and the plugs are about 60k miles old.
how many miles are on the car? it could be that the timing belt has stretched or jumped a tooth if there are alot of miles on it. with 60K on the plugs its worth replacing them weather they are bad or not. im assuming the wires have at least as many miles on them as the plugs so you might look at replacing them as well.
cbman
02-13-2008, 11:22 PM
Fist, I would go somewhere where you can get your DTC's scanned for free, like Autozone. That might help narrow it down.
If its a cam position sensor code, then you timing belt is probably slipping. how many miles since you replaced your timing belt?
If its an O2 sensor code, then its possible you have an intake leak.
If you can actually hear a vacuum leak, then it might be your PCV lines leaking. Obviously there are a lot of places where vacuum can leak though. I've even heard of couple cases where the plastic intake manifold broke on one of the runners, but that's pretty unlikely.
Fist, I would go somewhere where you can get your DTC's scanned for free, like Autozone. That might help narrow it down.
If its a cam position sensor code, then you timing belt is probably slipping. how many miles since you replaced your timing belt?
If its an O2 sensor code, then its possible you have an intake leak.
If you can actually hear a vacuum leak, then it might be your PCV lines leaking. Obviously there are a lot of places where vacuum can leak though. I've even heard of couple cases where the plastic intake manifold broke on one of the runners, but that's pretty unlikely.
I had the car scanned and I got a P1383 code, which has to do with misfiring. I decided to get new plugs & wires while I was there and I installed them about 10 minutes ago. It didn't effect anything. I really don't want to have to take this to a shop or dealership as I really don't have much money to throw into the car as I am selling it as soon as I have a few thousand in the bank to buy a truck.
I had the car scanned and I got a P1383 code, which has to do with misfiring. I decided to get new plugs & wires while I was there and I installed them about 10 minutes ago. It didn't effect anything. I really don't want to have to take this to a shop or dealership as I really don't have much money to throw into the car as I am selling it as soon as I have a few thousand in the bank to buy a truck.
I searched Google and found this is a ford forum:
"P1383 Variable Cam Timing Over-retarded.
This is usually reported when the VCT does not actuate, or if the timing belt was installed wrong.
It may well appear if the timing belt breaks.
If the cams are not rotating with the crank you will need a new timing belt, idler, and tensioner (and maybe water pump). Beware! even dealers have installed timing belts wrong on the Zetec VCT engine, if timing codes come up after repair the new belt may be on wrong."
cbman
02-14-2008, 04:54 PM
It sounds like your timing belt then. I would replace it before the teeth break completely. I would definately recommend replacing the tensioner and pulleys also. While your in there you could replace the water pump too, but it may not be needed.
Have a look at this thread: http://www.newcougar.org/forums/how-tos/120139-need-how-timing-belt-change-2.html
It sounds like your timing belt then. I would replace it before the teeth break completely. I would definately recommend replacing the tensioner and pulleys also. While your in there you could replace the water pump too, but it may not be needed.
Have a look at this thread: http://www.newcougar.org/forums/how-tos/120139-need-how-timing-belt-change-2.html
Saved myself hours of frustration (and possibly an engine) and took it to a shop.
Could it just be the computer messing it up?
Or do timing belts normally need to be replaced?
cbman
02-15-2008, 12:17 AM
How many miles are on your timing belt?
If it has 80k-100K miles it probably need replaced. I don't know what the Ford recommended replacement interval is.
Hardrive
02-15-2008, 09:49 AM
I don't think Ford has actually published a replacement interval for timing belts. Least I haven't found it.
Most manufacturers suggest between 45-90k for inspection and replacement.
Either way, when you replace the belt have the tension pulley replaced. If your pulley is actually shot, you'll go thru belts.
cbman
02-15-2008, 12:13 PM
Either way, when you replace the belt have the tension pulley replaced. If your pulley is actually shot, you'll go thru belts.
I know that from experience. Ended up replacing the timing belt twice in two months on my Contour.
Hardrive
02-17-2008, 11:49 AM
I know that from experience. Ended up replacing the timing belt twice in two months on my Contour.
I got lucky, my pulley puked it's bearings and I had to replace both.