Have no power when I accelerate

Tiny
MELVINGOVENDER
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 VOLKSWAGEN POLO
  • 1.8L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 250 MILES
The car is going up hills in number 2 gear, all of a sudden it comes back to full power then shuts off again. Then coming back to full power takes time.
Monday, January 20th, 2020 AT 4:13 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,772 POSTS
Hi,

This could be a couple different problems. Often times, a major power loss is due to a plugged catalytic converter. Is there any rattling from the exhaust that could indicate the converter has come apart internally? Also, low fuel pressure can also cause the issue.

Has the check engine light come on and stayed on while the engine is running? If it has, have the computer scanned for diagnostic trouble codes. If there are codes stored, it will help identify possible solutions.

Also, I would suggest checking the converter. Take a rubber mallet and tap on the exhaust to see if there is any noise coming from the converter. Here are a few links you may find of interest and helpful:

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

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

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

Also, here is a link that explains how to test fuel pressure. I don't have the manufacturer's specs because the vehicle isn't offered in the US. However, you should be able to find that where you are located.

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

Let me know if any of this helps.

Take care,
Joe
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Monday, January 20th, 2020 AT 7:52 PM

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