Questions and Answers

Ford Tempo Dies When Put Into DRIVE Q. I just got a 1989 Ford Tempo 4 cylinder, automatic transmission with A/C, cruise control, power windows and doors. It drives just fine for a while then you stop at a red light and take your foot off the brake to the gas and it dies. It will start right away, but, as soon as you put it in DRIVE and take your foot off the brake and put it on the gas, it dies again.

It may go for a while and you brake to make a left turn, it dies when you step on the gas. PLEASE help!

Thanks,
DK

A. Hi Debbie!! Back again I see. Let's see if we can't get to the bottom of this problem. At least we now know it is not the TCC solenoid. Right?

Assuming this vehicle is equipped with power assist brakes I would first check the power brake booster for vacuum leaks. If you don't have a vacuum pump a simple way to get an idea is the wait about a minute after the engine is shut down and disconnect the vacuum line to the booster, at the booster.

You should hear a hiss or sucking sound, if not, you will need to get it checked by someone with a vacuum pump. Beyond that, the engine could be mis-timed, in need of a tuneup, and possibly have a vacuum leak. Further diagnostics would be necessary to determine this.