2000 Toyota Corolla No Power

Suggested Repair

Check exhaust backpressure with a gauge at the oxygen sensor (over 3 psi is a concern) or by disconnecting the front exhaust pipe to test for a restricted catalytic converter. Before disconnecting the exhaust, also verify engine timing, since these years were prone to timing belt or chain problems.

Conversation Summary

A 2000 Toyota Corolla idles normally but has no power when the accelerator is pressed, with a check engine light and a bad smell at the muffler. The owner suspects a blocked catalytic converter. Experts recommend measuring exhaust backpressure or disconnecting the front exhaust to check restriction, and checking timing belt or chain timing first because that model year was a crossover with known timing issues.