car sputters loss of power at takeoff struggles to get up to speed but then smooths out and drives fine after about 65 miles an hour

Asked by Kelsey Feb 08, 2015 at 11:58 AM about the 2003 Kia Optima

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

2 Answers

103,735

First do the most inexpensive fix. Do a simple tune up. Plugs, wires, filters. Buy some throttle body cleaner and do a thorough cleaning. Here is a short video if you've never done it. Not for you make, but you'll get the idea. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrcaDh4xDLs If no improvement, have engine codes read by Autozone or your local parts dealer. Post codes back here.

6 people found this helpful.
195

I had a similar issue and had to replace the crankshaft position sensor. If you do it your self its not expensive but my sensor was located in front of the engine and behind the radiator, had to use mirrors to see it, but was able to replace it myself.

4 people found this helpful.

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