Sadly, when the spark plug, injector, and wiring look good, then it is time to check the compression. Lets hope that is not the problem. When these 5 cylinder engines have compression problems, it is usually around the #3 cylinder which has the hardest time staying cool.

Make sure the engine is warm for the test - not hot to burn fingers! Test all 5, and if one is low, add motor oil to that cylinder and check it again to determine if it is a valve or stuck ring. One poster had a great idea on how to add a table spoon of oil: Use a drinking straw, dip it into a bottle of oil, cover the top end with a finger to keep the oil in it, stick the straw into the plug hole, and release the oil. Wait a couple of minutes to let the oil settle and then test the compression.

If it is a valve, it might be a dirty exhaust valve. An Italian 'tune up' could fix it. The valves are designed to rotate at above 2K rpm to keep deposits from forming. Take the car out for a drive, keeping the rpms above 3K and at times approaching red line, and blow out the 'carbon'. 2nd gear will get you a ticket, so be careful.

I do not like to do tune ups in 1st because there is no torque load on the engine... not enough gasoline to push the engine hard. So, 2nd gear is my choice. 3rd is ideal, but cops don't like it when you go over 100mph :)

Klaus
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Why are Volvos so endearing? Its just a car.