Expert: Skip Bollinger - 7/19/2006

Question
I have a 2003 Buick park ave w/approx 50k miles. As I am driving (about 60mph on the local highway) the gas pedal becomes unresponsive and the car slows itself down. Almost as if it is braking but I am not touching the brake pedal. The steering becomes stiff. Almost as if it has developed torque steer. The steering wheel reminds me of how they felt before power steering.  

Answer
Tonya,
  I'm a parts expert, not a mechanic. I'm still trying to figure out how I ended up in this group but I'll give you my 2 cents worth. I don't mind at all.
  Has the "Check Engine" light come on?? IF IT HAS, you can have the computer "read" for possible codes. If there is an O'Reilly Auto Parts near you, they can help you with that. They have the scanner in their store.
  It sounds like there may be a problem with your throttle position sensor. This sensor tells the computer how "open" the throttle is. IF it is defective, it may be telling the computer the throttle is closed even you are going 60. Does your car have a tachometer? When this problem happens, what does the tachometer read?? I'm guessing it will be reading 500 rpm or less. You mention torque steer. Normally this phrase is used to describe steering under acceleration but I suppose, if you are cruising at 60 mph or about 2,100 rpm and a sudden drop in rpm could result in reverse torque steer. You also say the steering becomes difficult leading me to believe a drop in power steering pressure caused by a drop in rpm and power steering pump pressure.
  ALL of this is pure speculation on my part. As I said, I'm a parts specialist. I think I would begin by scanning the computer on the car and see if there any codes. If there are, follow them. If not, I'd unplug the Throttle Position Sensor and look for "gunk" in the plug. You might try cleaning it. Other than what I have listed above, I'm out of ideas. I'm sorry this is all I have. I hope it helps or gives you some positive direction. Thank you for your question...
Skip