Mitsubishi Galant 98 - Knocking Sound Problem

I own a mitsubishi Galant 98.

I changed oil last about 4 months back, and the car was doing fine. Since it felt like oil change was due, I changed it again a week back or so.

During the oil change, the guy told me that the car had very little oil, but he couldn't see any leak. He asked me if the car was overheating - I replied 'no'. He also filled up the antifreeze. I presume that the low oil was due to a long gap from the last oil change.

But ever since the oil change was done, I noticed that the engine holds up during acceleration - meaning it behaves like it's in neutral and then revs up suddenly. Some times, the idling strength is not strong enough during signal stops and the car turns off. This problem was never there before the oil change, but it could be coincidence as well. I also notice that this problem is a bit low once the engine heats up sufficiently, though it happens.

Any pointers on what needs to be done? I use this car to travel to work - so I am little concerned about spoiling this by continuing to drive this car.

I usually use octane 87 fuel, but I experimented with oct 93 fuel to see if it helps. I don't think it helps much.

The indicators are all fine - the check engine light is not on - and nothing unusual as far as the panels are concerned. How long has it been since you changed the spark plugs and ignition wires? Steve,

Never since I got my car (1 year or so). Not sure when it was done before that. My car mileage is at about 91K now.

Deepak It is conceivable that these parts were never replaced since the car rolled off the assembly line. That should be a good place to start and it may cure many problems. Do it yourself if you can. Otherwise, take your car to a shop. Tell the mechanic you want a tune-up, but make sure you tell him about all the other symptoms as well. OK Thanks. I'll try this and get back on how it worked. Steve,

Just one more question - does it look like I would be able to drive this car around without damaging the engine? As long as the oil level is maintained there will be no problem. Steve,

I changed the spark plugs and the ignition wires.
But it turns out that the car was low on transmission fluid. Replacing that solved the problem.

Thanks for your help with this.

Deepak