Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

Just yesterday my svx began experiencing sputtering issues at low rpm's (between 1500-2000 rpms). I noticed it while looking for a spot in a parking garage. While in the low rpm range there is a surging sensation, where you can visibly see the tachometer fluctuating between 1500 - 2000 rpm's.

I've read through other threads and there didn't seem to be a definite solution to this problem...Im thinking the likely cause is a faulty coil pack or fuel pump.

The car idles fine. However has recently developed a tendency to drop significantly immediately after coming to a stop and putting the car in park.

Any thoughts? How would i diagnose a faulty coil pack or fuel pump?

Re: Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

If it only does it between 1500 to 2000, it won't be a coil or the pump. I would look for a problem with the the mass air flow sensor.

Harvey.

Re: Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

If it is the air mass flow sensor, that's a relief as I have a spare from my parts car. I'll try that out and report back

Re: Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

Get a can of MAF cleaner, spray it out real good. Should cure the problem

Re: Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

I was experiencing a definite engine miss at the lower engine RPM's. This turned out to be a faulty coil so. If you suspect the same thing, pop up the hood and listen for a spark noise and watch the engine miss at the same time.

Just a quick check for you to try.

Re: Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

Cleaned the MAF with brake cleaner (specifically stated would not leave residue)...didn't solve the problem. I then, following the instructions, opened the MAF box, resoldered both the connections inside the black box (4) the connections underneath the copper cover (4) with still no luck.

Looks like the problem may lie in a faulty coil

Re: Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

When I experienced a similar problem, diagnosed as a faulty coil-pack, my guy at that time disconnected one injector at a time, looking for a distinct change in engine behavior with each one. The faulty cylinder will be indicated by no change when the injector is undone. Hope that is clear.

Glenn

Re: Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

I will try troubleshooting by checking each injector. I have noticed that the problem is more pronounced when the car is actually under load, meaning the car is in drive. When in park, I'll rev the engine to about 1,250 rpm's where the apparent troublespot is and it's sometimes noticeable. However once I am in drive when accelerating lightly from a stop the problem is clearly there in the same rpm range. I have to give it more gas just to avoid the misfiring/lurching effect in that range.

Re: Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

UPDATE - problem solved.

The culprit being frayed wires on the rear (blue) and front (gray) most driver side ignition coil packs. I ended up purchasing six. Expensive fix but I at least have all new ignition coil packs all around and no more surging or sputtering!

Re: Sputtering engine at low rpm's
 

I'm going to check my wiring right now. Thanks for the update and possible cause of a lot of our sputtering issues