If it stumbles at the exact same throttle position every time no matter what - it's the throttle position sensor.

Otherwise there can be many possible causes, most of which relate to running lean. This is often caused by vacuum or intake duct leaks.

Tecsup95 :

In your case, since you seem to have a 99 Zetec, you may be having a VCT issue. If VCT is getting sticky it could cause this. Many 98's have had VCT problems, so it's about time for the 99's to start acting up.


"Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it" -George Santayana