acceleration issues

2007 DODGE CALIBER
93,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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EMTPCON
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
On Friday I accidentally left the key on accessories and killed the battery. Saturday We charged the battery fully and when I left to take it for a drive the car has no power. It will not accelerate appropriately, it acts likes its bogged down. I can have my foot to the floor on the accelerator and it is going only 10 mph slowly increasing in speed but will not go any faster than (eventually) 45 mph. Sitting parked the car will idle fine and rev appropriately. The engine light is on which was not on previously. It is a garaged vehicle. The battery has been checked and is fine. Any suggestions as to what this could be??
Feb 7, 2015 at 8:46 PM
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WRENCHTECH
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 20,760 POSTS
The first step is to have the computer scanned for code. It sounds like there is an issue with the "drive by wire" electronic throttle system.
Feb 7, 2015 at 9:49 PM
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SHARI BRYER
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
This is the same thing that is happening to mine now, how can I fix it, I can't afford to take it to the garage
Jun 8, 2019 at 2:07 PM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,616 POSTS
What happens is the throttle bore gets dirty causing the system to go into limp mode. here is a guide to help you fix it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/reduced-power-limp-mode

Please run down this guide and report back.

Jun 11, 2019 at 5:06 AM
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SHARI BRYER
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Easier fix at least for me, it seemed crazy and I really doubted it would work but I had nothing to lose. Turn the key to the on position but do not start the vehicle, slowly press the accelerator pedal to the floor, hold for thirty seconds and slowly release, repeat. Let the car sit for an hour or more then start the car and try to drive it. This worked for me, surprisingly
Jun 11, 2019 at 5:55 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,616 POSTS
Good to hear, if the problem comes back I would service the throttle bore. This is a normal maintenance service.
Jun 12, 2019 at 4:31 AM
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