Engine shut off, will not stay running and "reduced power mode light" turned on

2007 CHEVROLET IMPALA
169,000 MILES • 3.5L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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JDAVIS112
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I just bought the car listed above (police car). It ran fine then on the way home. I went to the store and it shut off and the "reduced power mode" light came on and I can't get it to stay turned on/cranked. Please help. Single, disabled mother.
Sep 21, 2021 at 10:15 AM
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SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

The primary reason for these cars to go to limp mode is to have a dirty throttle actuator.
Many times a simple cleaning will get this fixed.

Also typically with the limp mode the check engine light gets illuminated. Is your check engine light on? If so get is scanned for trouble code(s). Which can help with the diagnostics.
You can take it to your local auto parts store (if it can be driven) to have it scanned and they will give you the code.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing


Here is an article that explains the typical low power mode/limp mode issue:

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

Here is a guide of how to clean the actuator:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/throttle-actuator-service

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
Sep 21, 2021 at 11:08 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good evening,

There is a code stored in the system for the issue. We need that code to help narrow the problem. You can go to a parts store and they will pull the code for free.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

I attached a guide for you of the possibilities of the issue but without the code, it is a guess.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-has-low-power-output

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-low-engine-power

Roy
Sep 21, 2021 at 11:10 AM
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