Lack of Power/Sluggish/Spongy/Stumble

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

Perform careful visual and physical check as described at the beginning of Symptoms.

Perform "Diagnostic Circuit Check."

^ CHECK
- Turbocharger function.
- Charge air cooler operation.
- Air induction for blockage.
- Fuel octane (has it been downgraded?).
- Ignition wires for shorts or faulty insulation.
- Ignition system for moisture, dust, cracks, burns, etc. Spray plug wires with fine water mist to check for shorts.
- For possibility of misfiring, crossfiring, or cutting out under load or at idle. If present, refer to the "Ignition System Check" Chart.
- Secondary ignition voltage output with J 26792 (ST-125) spark tester or equivalent.
- Ignition coil connections.
- ECM and ignition system for faulty grounds.
- Proper operation of EST. See "Ignition Systems."
- Spark plugs. Look for wear, wetness, cracks, improper gap, burned electrodes, and heavy deposits.
- Spark plugs for correct heat range.
- Fuel for poor quality, "stale" fuel, and water contamination.
- Fuel system for restricted filter or improper pressure. Use CHART A-7. Related Tests, Information and Procedures
- EGR operation. Use Code 32 chart. Testing and Inspection
- For vacuum leaks at intake manifold gasket.
- Air cleaner element (filter) for dirt or plugging.
- PROM for correct application. (Consult Service Bulletins)
- Throttle shaft or TPS for sticking or binding. TPS voltage should read less than 1.25 volts on a "Scan" tool with the throttle closed.
- MAP sensor output. Use CHART C1-D and/or check sensor by comparing it to the output on a similar vehicle if possible. Testing and Inspection
- Oxygen (O2) sensor for silicone contamination from contaminated fuel or use of improper RTV sealant. The sensor will have a white, powdery coating and will cause a high but false signal voltage (rich exhaust indication). The ECM will reduce the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, causing a severe driveability problem.
- Coolant sensor for a shift in calibration. Use Code 14 or Code 15 chart. Testing and Inspection
- Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) input with a "Scan" tool to make sure reading of VSS matches that of vehicle speedometer. See "Diagnostic Information."
- Engine for improper or worn camshaft. Refer to Engine. Engine
- A/C relay operation. A/C should cut out at wide open throttle. Use CHART C-10. Testing and Inspection
- A/C refrigerant pressure for high pressure. Check for overcharging or faulty pressure switch.
- Generator output voltage. Repair if less than 9 volts or more than 16 volts.
- Cooling fan operation. Use CHART C-12. Testing and Inspection
- Transmission torque converter operation. See TRANSMISSION. Transmission and Drivetrain
- Transmission for proper shift points. See TRANSMISSION. Transmission and Drivetrain
- Transmission [1][2]torque converter clutch operation. Use CHART C-8.
- Vehicle brakes for dragging. Testing and Inspection
- Engine valve timing and compression. Refer to Engine. Engine
- For worn or incorrect basic engine parts such as cam, heads, pistons, etc. Also check for bent pushrods, worn rocker arms, and broken or weak valve springs. Refer to Engine. Engine
- For the possibility of an exhaust restriction or improper valve timing by performing the following test.
1. With engine at normal operating temperature, connect a vacuum gauge to any convenient vacuum port on intake manifold.
2. Run engine at 1000 rpm and record vacuum reading.
3. Increase engine speed slowly to 2500 rpm. Note vacuum reading at steady 2500 rpm.
4. If vacuum at 2500 rpm decreases more than 3" Hg from reading at 1000 rpm, the exhaust system should be inspected for restrictions.
5. Disconnect exhaust pipe from engine and repeat Steps 3 & 4. If vacuum still drops more than 3" Hg with exhaust disconnected, check valve timing.
- For overheating and possible causes. Lock for the following:
- Low or incorrect coolant solution. It should be a 50/50 mix of GM #1052753 anti-freeze coolant (or equivalent) and water.
- Loose accessory drive belt.
- Restricted air flow to radiator, or restricted water flow through radiator.
- Faulty or incorrect thermostat.
- Inoperative electric cooling fan circuit. See CHART C-12. Chart C-12 Charge Air Cooler (CAC) Pump
^ If the system is running RICH (block learn less than 118), refer to "Diagnostic Aids" of Code 45.
^ If the system is running LEAN (block learn greater than 138), refer to "Diagnostic Aids" of Code 44. Testing and Inspection