Hey this is my first post. I have a 2004 neon sxt. 111k miles. when i first purchased it at around 60k the engine would buck lightly at full throttle, which i figured was characteristic of the vehicle, considering i had just driven an 08 caliber and it did about the same thing. but it has gotten progressively worse to the point of the engine cutting out completely when coming off of closed throttle. it used to be only when i smacked the throttle wide open from closed, but now does it anywhere. the motor cuts out for approximately three or four seconds and then comes back to full power. its like terrible turbo lag.
it also is very sluggish when revving from idle. you can hear the intake gulp air long before the engine revs up. no problems revving to redline or anything. I'm thinking timing belt or fuel pump. any ideas?

 

You should post in the Neon section, I'm sure someone there can help.

Kurt

PS Just a few quick thoughts... Get a cheap fuel pressure gauge and check range at idle, mid & high. Replace MAP sensor. The lag sounds to me like timing so I'd check out sensors that effect timing (eg MAP). Also fuel could be the culprit so it’s an easy test...why not do it? Last I also think vacuum leak when I think lag