Car loses power while driving

Welcome to 2CarPros.

First, this can be the result of several things. For example, a weak fuel pump, faulty crankshaft position sensor, partially plugged catalytic converter and so on.

With that in mind, my first question is this. Does the check engine light stay on while the engine is running? If it does, you need to have the computer scanned to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes. If they exist, it will greatly reduce the components that can be the possible problem. Here is a video that shows how to scan for codes:

https://youtu.be/b2IJGfImVvw

Now I realize most people don't own a scanner. If that is the case, often times a parts store will do it for free or at least rent one to you.

Now, if the light isn't on, then we need to start eliminating things. However, I want to be careful. If you have a plugged catalytic converter, it is still covered under the manufacturer's warranty. We don't want to jeopardize that. So with that in mind, I need to know if the check engine light is on, if it is what codes are present, and if it isn't staying on, let me know and we can start running through tests to see what may be causing the problem. Additionally, I will need the engine size.

Let me know,

Joe

Welcome back:

If it was a fuel restriction, it would happen regardless of temperature or time. When you notice the power loss, can you describe what happens? For example do you feel it when you press harder on the throttle or are going up a hill?

The engine doesn't respond? For example, if you placed it in neutral and hit the gas, does the engine rev?

Okay, then that is related to the throttle control system. In the old days, there was a cable which attached the throttle pedal in the vehicle with the throttle body. However, that has all changed. New vehicles use a accelerator pedal position sensor and other sensors to tell the engine how much power is required.

On this vehicle, the accelerator pedal positions sensor sends a signal to the power-train control module (PCM), and then the PCM tells the throttle body how to respond. If you have no codes, I would be totally guessing if I recommend replacing components. That, and the car being so new and with such fuel miles, I would almost suggest debating the repair of the problem with Chrysler.

The testing (since there are no codes) will need to be done via a live data scanner. The technician can tell if the pedal sensor is working, if the throttle body isn't receiving information and so on.

Let me know your thoughts. If you can, at least confirm the connection at the throttle pedal sensor is tight and not corroded where it connects. I attached two pics. The first shows location (which is under the dash on the inside of the car. The second shows the connector.

Let me know. Also, and please understand this is an educated guess, my first suspect is the switch shown in the picture. I have a strong feeling that if it simply doesn't send a signal to accelerate, the PCM may not realize there is even an issue.

I hope something here helps.

Take care,
Joe

Since you can't rev the engine, I feel it is related to this system.

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

Take care,
Joe