Auto Parts: 2002 VW Passat, low RPM, throttle position sensor, acceleration problems


Question
This problem began this morning. I turned the car on and the RPM's immediately dropped below 1000 and the car shook a little bit; as well as, my engine light came on. I then put it in drive, and there were obvious acceleration problems, not to mention the car was shaking quite a bit any time the RPM's dropped below 2000 (while in drive). In stop-and-go traffic sometimes I have to shift it into neutral so that the car does not die. I am planning on leaving on a trip tomorrow and am a bit hesitant about driving the car for an extended period.

Thanks for your time on this,
Adam

Answer
Hi Adam,

Scan the computer and retrieve the DTC's it has stored. Go from there. Sounds to me like the TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) took a dump.

Looking for a reputable service technician? My advice on finding a good technician is: Steer clear of the dealership and 'chain' stores like Firestone, Sears, Pep Boys, Monro Muffler/Brake, Midas, etc. as they usually only employ ONE ASE Certified Tech just so they can say they do and chances are, that guy is the asst. manager or manager and is not in the store to diagnose/repair vehicles anyway. Find a service location in the link below or get some names out of the yellow-pages and do a drive-by. Garages that employ ASE Certified Technicians will be marked with the 'Blue-Seal' insignia. If unsure about whether a place employs Certified Techs, just ask to see their credentials. ALL ASE Certified Technicians will be PROUD to show and display their certificate(s).

Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
Knucklebusters Used Auto & Truck Parts, Inc.
www.knucklebusters.us
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