Ford: 1994 Ford Taurus Bucking/Jerking, ford taurus, ford shop

Question
Elderly mother's car - she complained about it bucking and jerking while accelerating. I drove it - she was right.

3.0L, automatic transmission, 109,000 miles, excellently maintained. Starts fine, idles fine, accelerates fine up to 30 - 35 mph then starts bucking and jerking until you reach and hold your desired speed. Does this no matter how fast or slow you accelerate. Check engine light comes on somewhere in the process and stays on.

Took it to a local (non-Ford) shop and they couldn't find anything wrong - obviously didn't drive it. Can't see putting too much more money into this car given her age and its age. Any ideas?

Answer
Hi


Sounds like a misfire.  Did your mechanic get any codes?  Was the light on when he scanned it?

These would definitley give us some insight.


I would start with an inspection of the tune up and a fuel pressure test as well as a KOEO, KOER and pending/ memory code gathering.Also, look at the MAF sensor and make sure it is clean. They are known to fail and cause these symptoms.


Let me know what you find.

Most shops up here charge about $100 for an hours basic diagnostics and that should point somewhere.