Check Engine Light" and the "Reduced Engine Light" come on at the same time?

Tiny
KPEGUES
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 85,000 MILES
While driving my vehicle, all of a sudden the "Check Engine Light" and the "Reduced Engine Light" come on at the same time. The vehicle suddenly slows down to about 10 miles per hour. If I turn the car off and wait a minute, it will start right back up and I can drive normally again. What is this?
Saturday, August 15th, 2009 AT 5:14 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,123 POSTS
The sudden appearance of the "Check Engine Light" and the "Reduced Engine Power" warning, along with a significant loss of speed, is a common issue in many vehicles, including the 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer. This situation is often referred to as "Limp Mode."

Limp mode is a safety feature implemented by the vehicle's onboard computer system (PCM - Powertrain Control Module) to protect the engine and drivetrain from potential damage when a serious problem is detected. When the PCM detects a fault in a critical sensor or system, it may limit the engine's power output to prevent further damage. This is why your vehicle is experiencing a sudden drop in speed and performance.

There could be a variety of reasons for this issue, including:

Sensor Malfunction: Many sensors in your vehicle, such as the throttle position sensor, mass airflow sensor, or oxygen sensor, play a crucial role in regulating engine performance. If any of these sensors fail or provide incorrect readings, the PCM might trigger limp mode.

Faulty Wiring or Connections: Damaged or corroded wiring, loose connectors, or poor electrical connections can disrupt the signals between various sensors and the PCM, leading to unexpected behavior.

Electronic Control Module (ECM) Issue: The ECM is the main computer that controls various systems in your vehicle. If the ECM itself malfunctions, it could lead to issues like the ones you're experiencing.

Throttle Body Issues: Problems with the throttle body, such as a malfunctioning throttle position sensor or a clogged throttle body, can cause reduced engine power and trigger limp mode.

Fuel System Problems: Issues with the fuel system, such as a failing fuel pump or clogged fuel filter, can lead to a loss of engine power.

Transmission Issues: Problems with the transmission, such as a failing transmission control module or a slipping transmission, can also trigger limp mode.
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Sunday, August 16th, 2009 AT 9:33 AM
Tiny
KPEGUES
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I noticed another person had the same problem I had with their 2003 Trailblazer - the reduced engine speed light came on while driving and the car speed suddenly dropped to about 10 mph - has there been a recall or problem with this malfunction and trailblazers?
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Sunday, August 16th, 2009 AT 11:06 AM
Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,123 POSTS
No recall I'm aware of, Some problems are more common with similar components.

Follow that person's thread for potential information.

Did you get the codes yet?
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Sunday, August 16th, 2009 AT 6:53 PM
Tiny
MJ_ORIGINAL
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
Similar deal: CHK ENGINE, REDUCED POWER
2002 LS 4.2L 2WD AUTO
310,000 MILES, REBUILT 265,000
CODES: P1614, P1345

NEW/RECENT
ALL PLUGS AND COILS
MAP, CRANKCASE AND CAMSHAFT POSITION Sensors
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Sunday, August 20th, 2023 AT 9:24 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,904 POSTS
The codes you provided, P1614 and P1345, are specific OBD-II trouble codes that correspond to issues with the engine control module (ECM) and the camshaft/crankshaft position sensors. These codes are often associated with timing and sensor synchronization problems. Here's what each code indicates:

P1614 - Loss of RIM Serial Data:
This code refers to a communication problem between the vehicle's body control module (BCM) and the engine control module (ECM). The BCM and ECM need to communicate properly to ensure various vehicle systems work together. A loss of communication can result from a wiring issue, a faulty BCM or ECM, or a problem with the data bus that connects these modules. It could also be triggered by disconnecting the battery while the key is in the ON position or by using a non-programmed key.

P1345 - Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP/CKP) Correlation:
This code is related to the relationship between the signals from the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) and the camshaft position sensor (CMP). These sensors provide critical timing information to the engine control module, allowing it to synchronize ignition and fuel injection. If the signals from these sensors are not in proper alignment, it can lead to poor engine performance, misfires, and potentially a no-start condition.
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Sunday, August 20th, 2023 AT 12:37 PM
Tiny
MJ_ORIGINAL
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
Thanks for the prompt reply!
I erred that the -1614 is actually
P1514. Your code information seems close to what I've found online, a timing conflict. Is that correct?

The only sensor left to swap out is the VVT solenoid. At 300k+ miles I'd say I've gotten my money's worth; I don't know.
Just to 'pop the lid' on the timing chain cover is considerable.
What next steps would you suggest?
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Sunday, August 20th, 2023 AT 1:26 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,904 POSTS
The trouble code P1514 in a 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer indicates a problem with the Throttle Actuator Control Module (TACM), also known as the Throttle Body Control Module (TBCM). This code points to an issue with the Throttle Position Actuator Performance.
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Monday, August 21st, 2023 AT 9:28 AM

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