Engine just goes off on idle or slow drive - limp mode?

Tiny
EMMIE01
  • MEMBER
  • 2008 NISSAN SUNNY
  • 4 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 125,000 MILES
Hi,
Been having this issue for a while. My mechanic thought it was the "slow sensor" atleast that's what he called it. He changed it, it was okay for a while and started again. He "reprogrammed" it and it was fine for about two days. I really do not know what to do. Maybe he doesn't know what he is doing.

Please help!
Monday, April 14th, 2014 AT 12:34 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

It sounds like your vehicle might be in 'limp mode' or low power mode.
Limp mode is designed to get the vehicle to its destination under low power in order to protect the engine or transmission.
When a malfunction is detected of the engine management system or transmission system, the limp mode can be triggered by the computer.
Depending on the reason for the limp more sometimes it can be reset by disconnecting the battery.
However it is important to find out why the limp mode got triggered in the first place and take appropriate actions.

One of the primary reason the limp mode gets triggered is due to having dirty throttle actuator. Over time the actuator will have dirt buildup and can cause sluggish acceleration and low power.

Here is couple of helpful article:

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

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

Many times with engine in limp mode the check engine light gets illuminated. If the light is on then scan the vehicle for fault codes. This can help identifying the issue.

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

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
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Monday, September 13th, 2021 AT 7:55 AM

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