1988 Honda Accord Trouble Accelerating on Hills

ZUVUYA

MEMBER
1988 HONDA ACCORD
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
193,534 MILES

Hello, I have owned this car since March of this year. I believe it has been well-maintained for a car of its age. So far I have only changed the oil, changed the fuel filters, and fixed the air conditioner.

I have a growing concern about the car mainly because it sometimes has trouble accelerating or maintaining speed when driving uphill. Usually I downshift when this happens, which sometimes helps but it still doesn't gain speed easily. I am planning to drive out west in a few weeks, so I am especially concerned about driving in the mountains.

Other things I have noticed: sometimes when I get out of the car after driving I smell a burning rubber smell. Last night after driving for about an hour, the engine was making a bubbling, gurgling noise which I noticed after the car was turned off.

Does this tell you what the problem is likely to be?
Thanks.

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

Other things I have noticed: sometimes when I get out of the car after driving I smell a burning rubber smell. Last night after driving for about an hour, the engine was making a bubbling, gurgling noise which I noticed after the car was turned off. Sounds like the engine is overheating-check this out before you do below

Possibilities: Inspect and test all the following listed below:

Oxygen sensor.
Catalytic converter.
Fuel injectors dirty/sticking.
Mass airflow sensor/Airflow meter.
Throttle position sensor.
Crankshaft position sensor
Manifold absolute pressure sensor.
EGR Valve
Fuel pressure regulator leaking or defective fuel pump.
False air leakage.
Fuel contamination.
Foul/defective spark plugs.
Open spark plug wires.
Ignition coil/Coil packs defective.
Incorrect ignition timing.
Cap and rotor.

Note:If it doesn't apply disregard