Loss of power on hills and under load?

SPARKY_75

MEMBER
2008 VAUXHALL MERIVA
1.6L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
100,000 MILES

Vehicle starts fine; idles fine.
No Engine Fault Codes in ECU.

Pulling off from a stop, there is a lack of power.
On hills, revs will drop, and power will drop away.

Have replaced:
* Spark Plugs
* Air Filter
* EGR Valve
* Fuel Pump and Filter

Cleaned throttle body and MAP sensor.

Stuck for ideas!

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,244 POSTS

Hi,

First, please understand this vehicle isn't offered in the US, so my information is very limited. However, I will try my best to help.

Based on your description and what you have already done, the first thing that comes to mind is a partially plugged catalytic converter. If there is a restriction in the exhaust, it will create too much back pressure and cause a power loss or even prevent the engine from running.

Take a look through this link and let me know if anything mirrors what you experience:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/bad-catalytic-converter-symptoms

Let me know.

Joe

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Monday, March 13th, 2023 AT 8:56 PM

SPARKY_75

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Hi,

Thanks for the reply and information - it is much appreciated and very helpful.

There is no Check Engine Light illuminated; and I have tried 3 different scanners - which show there are no Error Codes.

I think you may be correct, and it is likely to be a blocked Catalytic Converter/Exhaust.
I will carry out some tests today.

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Tuesday, March 14th, 2023 AT 12:01 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,244 POSTS

Hi,

It's very possible. If you have a chance, let me know what you find. Also, here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-catalytic-converter

Let me know.

Joe

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Tuesday, March 14th, 2023 AT 3:23 PM