Reduced engine light on

NATHANPEREZ

MEMBER
2008 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
3.8L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
130,000 MILES

My car has a reduced engine power light and I don't know what to do to fix it. I've cleaned the throttle body and changed the gas pedal but none of these fixed it.

Saturday, November 13th, 2021 AT 3:39 PM

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

This could be a few different things. By chance, have you had the computer scanned to see if there are diagnostic trouble codes that will point us in the right direction? If not, that is where you should start.

Here is a video showing how it's done:

https://youtu.be/-6SmUURn1ac

I realize most people don't own a scanner, but oftentimes a parts store will lend one to you. If possible, have this done, and let me know what codes are found.

If you are unable to do this, let me know exactly how the vehicle is reacting. For example, is it drivable? Is the check engine light remaining on when the engine is running? Does the engine respond when you press the throttle pedal?

Let me know.

Joe

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Sunday, November 14th, 2021 AT 12:20 AM

NATHANPEREZ

MEMBER
4 POSTS

The car loses engine power and won’t go over 30 and sometimes would just turn off and now that I remember I was told by a mechanic that it was the ignition switch but I didn’t think it was I do also remember it turning off when I was at a stop light but I thought it was because of the bad battery and it also turn off while taking turns.

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Sunday, November 14th, 2021 AT 2:37 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

It could very possibly be related to the ignition switch. Have you had the switch replaced under a manufacturer recall?

Take a look at the attachment and let me know if this was taken care of.

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)

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Sunday, November 14th, 2021 AT 6:56 PM

NATHANPEREZ

MEMBER
4 POSTS

No I have no changed the ignition switch since I bought it from someone else I don't know if the person I bought it from did and I don't have any way to contact them and asking. I'll fix it, I'll get back to you when I do. Thank you for your help!

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Sunday, November 14th, 2021 AT 8:20 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

First, you are very welcome. The recall was the result of the ignition switch moving between run and off. It was somewhat dangerous. Here is what to do: Contact a GM dealership and ask how you can determine if the recall was taken care of with your vehicle. Since there are no longer Pontiac dealerships, try any Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and so on dealers for help.

Let me know.

Joe