I have a 1996 Ford Taurus LX V6 which showed a 0500 code (check engine light on)- we replaced the sensor (which was worn) cleared the code but the car still runs poorly.

As of now we have driven it about 100 miles with no check engine light yet. But the car runs poorly and has a noticable loss of power when going uphill. I play with the gears a bit which helps 1) use L2 up to about 35 MPH where I try to shift into drive or 2) I press and release the gas pedal untill the engine kicks in.

Its not a tranny problem Im quite sure, but seems to be a simple problem such as a a filter or sensor somewhere. We have changed all filters and fluids as recommended and the car has been well maintained- it has 125K miles right now.

Any thoughts on what could be causing the erratic performance and loss of power?

Also sometimes when going uphill I depress the accelerator all the way down , hold it then release it slowly and the car 'kicks' into gear as Im releasing the pedal. Also gas mileage is terrible now- about 12 MPG whereas before I was getting 27-8 MPG.

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

Have you done a tune up? Plugs an wires come to mind first. If you never replaced spark plugs this is a red flag after 50,000. All depends on driving an habits of driving.Don't forget anti seize on the threads of the plugs.