2002 3.8L MC w/ 59000. I've noticed a loss of power recently. This morning was very pronounced. Going up a steep hill (15%), the MC could only manage about 15 MPH and was slowing as we got to the top. It's also running a bit hot.

A month ago I started a new job with a 40 mi. commute. The problems started soon after. Last week I had the thermostat replaced and the throttle body/MAF sensor cleaned.

The forum tells me the Cat maybe going or the throttle body is bad.

Any ideas where to begin?

Thanks,
Mike

 

1. While you are checking it the Cat should not go out at 59K (159K) yeah
2. Did you put any cheap (real cheap gas ) in the car and maybe got the better than 10% blend ethanol if your car isn't made for flex fuel don't do it.
3. A bunch of bad fuel will do it and cause the AC not to work right.
4. When is the last time you changed the fuel filter probably 25to 35K is a good rule of thumb.
5. Air filter take the old one out every time you change the oil, it needs to breathe.
6. Do you have a vacuum leaks.
7. Check your tail pipes for kinks or blockage.
Remember Beverly Hills cop the Banana in the tail pipe, that is a true thing

 

Sounds like the cat to me. My 02 did the same thing but not at 59K, it was just over 100K.

 

I agree check the cat!

 

Problem solved. $600

 

.....drum roll.....what was it?

 

It was the cat. I had a new one cut in and it runs well. Nothing is easy. Forty miles from the shop car started to sound like it had no muffler. Turn out the mechanic had reused the old gasket. A trip back to have that replaced took car of that. She passed smog today.

of course it still is running a bit hot.

 

A cat shouldn't go out at 59K. You should have your mechanic check out your entire fuel system.

 

I hope you find out why this happened and keep an eye on that temp gauge.

 

When you say "a bit hot" where is the temp gauge when driving?