Loss of power

2002 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
177,000 MILES • 3.8L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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LKLENSKI
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Was running fine then started climbing a hill at 50 MPH then as I got to a little steeper part of the grade I loss power, I pushed the accelerator and there was nothing there. I feathered the accelerator, was able to increase a little power but wasn’t able to get full load back. I was able back on flat to feather the accelerator and get it back to 40 MPH but as soon as I turned back onto a hill I had to feather again to get it up the hill to even keep it at 25 MPH. Thank you. please help as I just bought this car for my wife’s mom as her car stopped working.
May 18, 2021 at 9:01 AM
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DANNY L
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I'm Danny.

What we ask you to do is perform a CAN scan to retrieve all code information from your car. A CAN scan will test all the systems on your car including the engine, transmission, ABS, and traction control lights. Here is a tutorial showing what is involved for a CAN scan:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

You might also have a weak or failing fuel pump that is not supplying adequate fuel pressure. Here is a tutorial showing what is involved performing a fuel pressure test:

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

The fuel pressure specification for your car is 53-59 psi with the key on and engine off. Lastly, There is also a possibility you could have a plugged exhaust system, muffler, or catalytic converters impeding flow causing this symptom. Here are tutorials showing how to test a catalytic converter:

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

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

After performing these procedures get back to us with all stored code information and then we can properly diagnose these possible issues with your car. Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
May 19, 2021 at 12:01 PM
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