Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Zetec Maintenance Horrible throttle response and slow acceleration

my friend's 96' gl contour 5-speed has the worst throttle response ever and when you punch it, it takes a big breath then almost dies then starts accelerating so slow. Autozone checked and it said it had lean air and clogged cat or some such thing....so we got a new o2 sensor and were gonna see if it helps.... What else should we try?

how many miles does it have on it?


JD

Get the code numbers, that should help pinpoint exactly what's going on.

I'm guessing that the clogged cats are a factor, if you search you might find something about that, and if you post the codes someone with experience will probably be able to help you out.
-Peter

I should of asked to what did autozone check. Is the check engine light on and autozone read the codes?

Clogged cat could be a problem (that would be some high milage) put your hand over the muffler output (do this cold then start car or it will be HOT) there should be some force and it should start hissing out the muffler drain hole.

Maybe a faulty/clogged injector in the fuel rail.

JD

Oh yeah maybe fuel filter if that hasn't been done in a while. maybe...

replaced the o2 sensor today and it made no difference. there are 160k on the engine and my friend said they have replaced the fuel filter before so...Oh and the check engine light is still on.

How do i check if the cat is truely clogged again? also the car has 160k and the fuel filter has been replaced....Also we've considered maybe the MAF is gummed up maybe...What do you guy's think?

Try replacing the TPS sensor.

Also it is possible that your MAF be be on it's way out. I would also change the fuel filter for good measure.

TPS can be had for $20-30 depending where you look for it. Fuel filter can be had for about $10.

I had a vid up a little while ago of a compilation of pics and vids of my car......now let me check if it is up anymore.