I have been noticing for awhile the engine hesitates when I increase the throttle lightly. It doesn't happen when I'm more agressive with the throttle. After doing a search I noticed several threads pointed toward the coils. I haven't had a cahnce to scan it. However, there is no Service Engine Soon light showing. But it did come on several months ago, coded indicated O2 sensors. Then the SES light cleared itself. Recently it came back on (under heavy acceleration as before) then went out before I could scan it.

I'm just wondering. If it is the coils, how do I determine which one is bad?

 

The coils don't typically go bad. It's probably an 02 sensor related thing:

The computer uses the programmed/stored fuel/timing tables under heavy acceleration and uses the oxygen sensors to maintain A/F under part throttle.

That's why it does that.

Scan it and see what history codes pop up.

Mike

 

yeah you should still be able to see that code even if the SES is not lit up it will store them... mine will read out as pd##### , think is something like pending not active??

but if you got an O2 sensor code before I'd think that’s your cause

 

I got a scan. Same codes as before; P0131 and P0151, O2 sensor #1 banks 1 and 2.

So where is the webpage that tells me how to change these out?

 

I'm going to say a spark problem. Typically under a load it will sputter. But that's not your problem.

Have you checked the plugs? Gap?

 

Changed the plugs at around 48K, other wise no.

 

Unscrew them from your exhaust with an open ended wrench or something similar, unplug the electrical connections, remove. Reverse steps for new ones.

Mike

 

Dont ya wish everything was fixed this easily on these cars?!

 

What I'm trying to figure out is how to get an open ended wrench in there?

 

Are you serious?

 

An open ended wrench won't really give you enough leverage. Go to autozone and rent a O2 sensor removal tool.

 

Yes. It looks like it would be easiest from underneath. Form the top looks like a tight squeeze. I simply want to know what is the best method before I put the car on jacks and go underneath.