No acceleration power, warning message on dash "engine losing power'

FLINTAB

MEMBER
2007 CADILLAC SRX
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
127,000 MILES

My car just lost power, I turned it off for a minute and it was just fine again. The following day it happened again. It won't go past 30 miles per hour. I put my foot on the accelerator and the car just does not have no power. No pick up what so ever. On the panel it displays engine losing power.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,645 POSTS

Hi,

There could be a few things causing this. For example, low fuel pressure, a plugged catalytic converter, or a sensor related issue. Lets start by checking for diagnostic trouble. Since the reduced power light is coming on, there should be diagnostic trouble codes stored in the computer. So, the computer should be scanned. Here is a quick video showing how it is done:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

I realize most people don't own a scanner, but often times, a parts store will do it free of charge. So I suggest having it done. Also, let me know the codes that are found.

Next, I am going to provide a few links. First is dealing with the catalytic converter. A plugged converter will cause a power loss. Sometimes, the internal components in the converter will become detached from the housing and move around. As a result, it will be okay for a period, then move and block air flow, and then back and forth. Often times you will hear a rattling sound coming from the underside of the vehicle when this happens.

Take a look through these links. The first discusses symptoms and the second will explain how to check it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/bad-catalytic-converter-symptoms

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-catalytic-converter

There are two catalytic converters on this vehicle, one on each side of the engine. The attach to the exhaust manifold. See pic 1 Try this, take a rubber mallet and tap on the exhaust system close to the converters to see if there is any noise from the. If there is, chances are they are unattached internally.

____________________________

Next is fuel pressure. Now this is going to be a tough one to check because it is random. However, you could check to confirm it is within the manufacturer's specs. Here is a link showing how it is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Here are the manufacturer's specs as far as fuel pressure:

Fuel Pressure (Key ON, Engine OFF) .................... 380-410 kPa (55-60 psi)

__________________________

What I suggest is to start with scanning the computer. If there are codes, they will point us in the right directions for repairs.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Image (Click to make bigger)