Q: when under load the 2003 3.8 v6 mustang doesnt accelerate and the transmission feels like its slipping

asked by on January 11, 2018

ive replaced maf sensor throttle body sesnor plug wires spark plugs fuel filter thermostat upper radiator hose ignition head gaskets egr valve and still it doesnt accelerate they way it should and the transmission feels like it is slipping there is no odor when the car revs high and it only does this under load

My car has 159150 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Engine hesitates during acceleration Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

If the transmission clutches are slipping, that is an internal mechanical fault that typically requires re-building. If the issue is in engine controls though, other common causes of loss of power include plugged fuel injectors (all should be removed from the fuel rail and sent out to a lab such as Mr. Injector where they are cleaned and restored), electronic throttle controls, leaking air intake hose, faulty fuel pump or restricted fuel system, and large vacuum leaks (including EGR malfunctions, PCV system, leaking intake manifold, leaking EVAP purge valve). A scan tool would be used to look at real time conditions within the engine (particularly short term and long term fuel trim, etc.) and identify the root cause. If you want the required diagnostic tests performed by a certified Mechanic, dispatched by YourMechanic right to your location, please request a loss of power inspection/diagnostic and the responding certified mechanic will get this resolved for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Power window off track
Sometimes a motor slowly fails and a hard spot makes it stop all together, sometimes all it needs is a little spray of dry lube. Have a certified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, inspect and take the door panel...
Car shakes in First gear
Hello. It is possible that a tune up of your vehicle would solve this problem. There could also be a problem with one of your engine mounts. A diagnosis of the vehicle's drivability needs to be done by a certified...
2007 Honda Accord not going into gear
You seem to be having a hydraulic (fluid transfer) issue here. The leak may be in the slave cylinder, master cylinder or the lines and hoses that move the fluid from each part to the other. Look for leaks under...
Car shutting off in the middle of driving
Hello. The first thing that I would suggest that you do is have an inspection of the electrical charging system (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/electric-problems-inspection) completed. It is possible that the alternator is working intermittently. There are brushes inside of the alternator that conduct...
Moisture in fuse box causes fuel pump fuse malfunction
For this, Silicone spray is one tool I personally like to use especially on rubber or silicone seals. The spray will leave a water-tight film on the electrical component and offers a moisture resistant coating. If you would like to...
Gas pump continuously shuts off when filling up tank.
The vent hose (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/surge-tank-hose-replacement) on the fuel tank to the fuel filler neck is plugged up and is not allowing the air (fumes) to cycle through the system as the fuel is being poured. To verify this, the next time...
Do I need an oil change? 2011 Infiniti EX35 has less than 2000 miles on synthetic last changed 5 yrs ago. 3500 total mileage.
Oil changes are essential to an engines performance and the longevity of an engine's life. I recommend having an oil change either every 4 months or 5500 miles. If your engine oil has been in the engine for more than...
starter
Hello, thank you for writing in. Even without a check engine light, there may be codes present that will help with this. Scan the vehicle for codes first, and use any present to help guide you. The noises you are...

Related articles

2012 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Mazda 3: Which One Should I Buy?
Compact sedans and hatchbacks provide a great ride on a budget, with the evolution from a stodgy, unattractive exterior (and interior!) to a more fully-featured trim set and exterior design. Driving enjoyment is improved throughout the class, which are known...
2012 Honda Civic vs. 2012 Ford Focus: Which One Should I Buy?
One of the best ways to cope with pain at the gas pump is to look at downsizing your vehicle, and today’s compact cars are a great option that allow you to keep the space that you need to move...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Have 3 or More Kids
If If you have three or more kids, you could probably get by with a mid-size sedan if all you want to do is take them from Point A to Point B. Realistically, though, having kids means music lessons, athletics,...