1992 SL1 144K Acceleration Problem

[CharlieR3355]

My 1992 1.9 Saturn SL1 (throttle body version) is encountering acceleration hesitation problems. It happens every time when I step on the accelerator to gain
High speed it start to accelerate in a jerking fashion so I have to pump the gas as I encounter this to over come the jerking. Once underway at high speeds it does not happen but if I come to a full stop it will reoccur when I take off again.

I’ve changed the following items: ERG valve, oxygen sensor, and FPR.

But the problem continues… Any recommendation will come in handy.

-Charlie

[ksion15]

have you tried plugs and wires? sounds like a secondary ignition problem.

[wrparks]

How long since a tune up? Might want to check vacuum lines as well, as a leak in one can cause many symptoms. Fuel filter?

[nightbird]

that is what happened on my 94 SL1 150K miles. For half a year I noticed a gentle hesitation that was almost like hitting a road bump, couldn't be sure. Then the hesitation got worse, with intermittant choking at higher speeds or acceleration. Then the choking turned to balking and I had to take it in

It was the ignition coil. On my saturn there are two boxes side by side in the engine front, each with two wires to the engine. The passenger side box had a completely corroded metal post. The mechanic replaced that box only, and all the wires. THe engine no longer chokes, has way better performance, acceleration, and the oil is slighly cleaner.

I still don't know why the mechanic didn't replace the other box while it was in the shop. I am going to see about that when I get some more dollars to spend.

[wrparks]

Originally Posted by nightbird

I still don't know why the mechanic didn't replace the other box while it was in the shop. I am going to see about that when I get some more dollars to spend.

It's definitely a possibility here too. I don't know that I would replace the other one if things are running fine. But if so, do it yourself, it's quite easy on these cars. Maybe 2-3 steps, just make sure you plug the wires back correctly.

[pberryny]

1996 SL1 153K with same acceleration problem. Especially bad while trying to pass on highway (never easy in a Saturn anyway). Started as a rare occurance and became very common. OBD2 reading (engine light was not on) indicated an EGR pintle valve position problem. Replaced but problem was still there. Took the new one off and put the old one back on. I found this posting and sure enough corrosion on the ignition coil posts. I replaced the ignition wires ($19.99 Autozone) and used sand paper to remove corrosion from ignition coil posts. Now runs like a champ. Thanks.