Loss of power

BAIRDDUDE423

MEMBER
2003 MAZDA 6
3.0L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
198,056 MILES

First, the car will start just fine sometimes and then sometimes it sounds like it's grinding something. I have to try most of the time third time's a charm. Second when I press the throttle it it feels like it's clogged or something is holding it back, it will only go to about 3,000 to 4,000 rpm's. If I keep the throttle all the way it will kinda jump up rpm and then backfires and then shifts really hard. But when going up hill it will lose power and I'm lucky to make it. It's also like it. I feel like it's a vacuum line, or something simple. Please help.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,262 POSTS

Welcome to 2CarPros.

Anytime there is a power loss as you described, my first suspect is a plugged catalytic converter. At times, the internal portion of the converter can come loose and rattle, so I'm wondering if that is what you are hearing.

Do me a favor, take a look through these links and let me know if you feel the symptoms seem to mirror what you read. Also, if possible, record the sound you are hearing and upload it for me to hear.

Another idea is to take a rubber mallet and tap on the exhaust to see if you hear a rattling coming from the converter.

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

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

Let me know what you find. Also, if you could let me know if the check engine light is staying on with the engine running, it will be helpful.

Take care,
Joe