Issue with acceleration going up hills?

2017 HYUNDAI TUCSON
11,273 MILES
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ATHANASTIA2018
My Tucson is not accelerating going up hill RPM go up high there no power. Start Tucson up smell admission fumes. Burns gas. Jerking and driving bad. Hear whining noises.
Jan 25, 2026 at 2:37 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,193 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi:

It sounds like it could be a couple of things. First, you may have a plugged catalytic converter. Based on your description, that is my first suspect.

Take a look at this link. It explains how to check one. The easiest thing to do would be to remove the upstream oxygen sensor so there is an additional path for exhaust to exit (before the converter). However, if you have an infrared thermometer or have access to one, it can be used.

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

If the converter checks good, confirm the transmission fluid is clean and full. It could be slipping.

Let me know if this helps and what you find. If you have other questions, let us know.

Take care,

Joe

Jan 25, 2026 at 6:36 PM
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