Thread: need help with surging engine.

I have a 97 prix with 3.8L auto. I start the car and it sounds like it is sucking alot of air, as if the filter isnt there. The engine surges and wants to die but soon as I give it a little gas, its fine. Then if I get off the gas it will die, sometimes! Then when I drive down the road it runs fine unless I let it coast and it surges from 1500rpm to 2000rpm!!! I have thought about possible plugs and wires, as if it is a miss. I am thinking now possibly a MAP sensor, MAF sensor, or a TPS sensor!! Any help would help!! Thanks

Thanks, I will try and trace it down, and check into getting it scanned. I appreciate it guys.

Vac leak, find it with a can of carb cleaner.

Ok, I found a vaccum leak. Fixed it, went and got it scanned. It had 2 codes, MAF sensor and TPS sensor. Car still does it, and the sucking sound is coming in the air intake like it is starving for air. It has a new air filter and the airway is clear. So I am thinking MAF sensor because it is starving for air. I tried unplugging it and it doesnt change the way it runs. So now what? I dont want to just start replacing every part. Thanks

Well its sucking air to try and stay running. If I dont give rev it up a little, it will die on me!! And I mean rev it only up to around 1500rpm, so not alot, but just enought to keep it running. Then if I drive it for about 20 mins, it seems to be ok for awhile.

Right I understand that and agree with you, I wasnt trying to say something different! I guess I just have to start replacing sensors untill I get one right!! LOL, thanks