1999 Saturn SL2 power lapses

1999 SATURN SL2
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EDANDHISTWODOGS
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Engine Performance problem
1999 Saturn SL2 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 130k miles

the car starts out fine and then after a mile of driving, it lacks acceleration. It surges and will only accelerate at highway speeds if I push hard enough to kick it into overdrive where it too will eventually begin to surge. After reaching cruising speed, I feel no problem until an incline where again I need to accelerate. 0 - 30 acceleration is also poor. Replaced coil packs, plugs, wires, and the VSS on the transaxle. Help!
May 28, 2009 at 2:09 PM
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PLUS2COM
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Does the car have one of those lovely little Switches for power and economy , If so check to see that its functioning , there could be an issue with that , let me know
Jun 1, 2009 at 11:18 PM
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EDANDHISTWODOGS
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No.
Jun 2, 2009 at 2:09 PM
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PLUS2COM
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Have you looked into the fuel system on the car ? if its lacking power you could be having a fuel delivery issue either from the tank (fuel pump not putting out enough PSI ) or a clogged fuel filter.
Jun 2, 2009 at 9:16 PM
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EDANDHISTWODOGS
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Would a clogged fuel filter only be problematic under load?
Jun 4, 2009 at 10:12 AM
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PLUS2COM
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This is possible, if there is say a 50% blockage, it will idle fine because there is enough pressure in the fuel system to get to the fuel rail , however if your asking for more while accelerating, it may not be able to keep up.. you may also want to look into your fuel pump as it may be malfunctioning
Jun 18, 2009 at 7:45 PM