Engine sputtering and hesitates

1998 FORD ESCORT
180,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
RODRIGOVZQZ
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
Car sputtering and hesitant so I changed the fuel filter, spark plugs, oil and filter along with air filter. Cleaned the MAF sensor, throttle body. After that it works a little better but still doing it. It idles perfectly steady and accelerates normal if you step on the pedal easy but if you demand any power or just try go above 4krpms starts to sputter and then jumps to 5krpms without a problem. Any input much appreciated. Thank you in advance.
Mar 4, 2021 at 10:57 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
DANNY L
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I'm Danny.

I would first check the fuel pressure. You may have a weak or faulty fuel pump that is not supplying adequate fuel pressure. Here is a tutorial showing how to test fuel pressure:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

If you don't have access to a tester most local auto parts stores have a tool loaner program and can rent you one. The fuel pressure specification for your car is to be 25-35 PSI with the engine running. Get back to us with the reading after testing and we'll go from there. Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
Mar 4, 2021 at 1:47 PM
Avatar
RODRIGOVZQZ
  • MEMBER
  • 14 POSTS
Sorry for delay. I replaced the fuel pressure regulator and seemed to have fixed the issue. Still have cylinder 3 misfire but that's a different story. Thanks for the help.
May 24, 2021 at 9:42 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
DANNY L
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 5,648 POSTS
You're welcome!

I've attached picture step flow charts below to help with P0303 cylinder 3 misfire. Hope this helps and let us know what you find. Thanks again for using 2CarPros.

Danny-
May 24, 2021 at 8:24 PM