GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 2000 🢒 Prizm 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Controls - 1.8L 🢒 Lack of Power, Sluggishness, or Sponginess

Lack Of Power, Sluggishness, Or Sponginess

Checks

Action

DEFINITION: The engine delivers less than expected power. There is little or no increase in speed when partially applying the accelerator pedal.

Preliminary Checks
    • Refer to Symptoms .
    • Compare the customers vehicle with a similar unit in order to determine if the customer has an actual problem.
    • Remove the air filter element and check for dirt or restrictions.
    • Check the air inlet duct for any blockage or restrictions.
    • Check the transmission shift pattern and down-shift operation.

Fuel System Checks
    • Check for a restricted fuel filter or incorrect fuel pressure.
    • Check the fuel injectors. Perform the following procedures:
       - The Fuel Injector Balance Test. Refer to Fuel Injector Balance Test .
    • Check for contaminated fuel. Refer to Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis .

Ignition System Checks
    • Check for the proper ignition voltage output with a J 26792 .
    • Check the knock sensor and the sensors circuit shielding. The knock sensor is not diagnosed for excessive activity. A faulty knock sensor or signal interference could cause excessive retard of the ignition timing advance. Observe the Spark parameter on a scan tool and compare with a known good vehicle. A typical value with the transmission in OD at 105 km/h (65 mph) is 26-32 degrees.
    • Check the spark plugs for correct operation and performance. Refer to Spark Plug Visual Diagnosis .

Exhaust System Checks
    • Check the exhaust system for a possible restriction. Refer to Restricted Exhaust System Check .
    • Inspect the exhaust system for damaged or collapsed pipes. Inspect the muffler for heat distress or a possible internal failure.

Engine Mechanical Check
    • Check for any of the following engine mechanical problems:
       - A low compression
       - An incorrect valve timing
       - An incorrect or worn camshaft
    • Refer to the appropriate procedures in Engine Mechanical.

Additional Checks
    • Check the generator output voltage. The voltage of the engine electrical system must be in the range of 10.0 to 14.5 volts for normal engine control system operation.