QuestionYesterday I changed the plugs in my 2.7L 2002 Santa Fe. Today it drove fine for about 10 miles, then acted up. No power, the transmission doesn't seem to shift, feels like engine braking. Starts/idles fine. No check engine light. Lifting off the throttle seems to smooth things out. Did a sensor break or fall off thanks to my plug change?
AnswerI'd be surprised if you have a transmission issue, especially since it seems like the engine braking is worse when you're *on* the throttle. As always, if a problem occurred immediately after servicing the vehicle, go back and check those things that were handled during the disassembly. In this case, you'll want to make sure the intake air bellows, PCV hose, idle actuator, and throttle position sensor are all plugged in/attached securely and properly.
As it stands, it's difficult for me to determine whether you have an engine or transmission performance issue. The following may assist me in determining where your problem lies:
1. Do you hear an abnormal sucking noise when the engine is running?
2. Does the engine rev up normally when you depress the throttle?
3. As you drive the vehicle, periodically move the shift lever over to the manual select side and check which gear your transmission is in, and then return the lever to the normal position. Does the gear seem to change normally?
