What causes the engine to have poor acceleration?

Tiny
RONALD DEVOLD
  • MEMBER
  • 2012 CHEVROLET EQUINOX
  • 2.4L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 172,000 MILES
I have the vehicle listed above that when I drive it, it doesn't want to accelerate, and it shifts around 3,000 RPMs. Then it will not accelerate over 20-miles an hour. Eventually it will slowing climb up over 20. I took it to the dealership, and they told me I need to replace my Catalyst Convertor, Exhaust Manifold and 02 sensor. I save a few and purchase the parts myself. All ACDelco Parts. This does not solve the problem. I cleared the codes prior to changing the parts so no code is coming up. I have a bunch of historical codes and I also noticed a little miss. I will run diagnostic again later to see if any other codes come up. What will cause the engine to have poor acceleration?
Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 AT 3:43 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
MECHTRIX
  • MECHANIC
  • 382 POSTS
You're in the right place 2carpros has some really good videos that explain some of the things. That said ". Here are a few things that can cause your engine to lose power slipping transmission.
Weak fuel pump clogged fuel filter clogged air filter bad spark plugs broken or extremely dirty MAF or MAP sensor clogged faulty exhaust components, slipped timing belt, to name a few. Any of these components that are mechanical won't throw a code only their electronic counterparts will. There's a start. Good luck wish you all the best. Hope this helps.
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Thursday, April 24th, 2025 AT 8:47 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,144 POSTS
This can be the MAF sensor or bad camshaft timing, we need to have the codes to see which direction to go in to fix the problem.

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

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
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Monday, April 28th, 2025 AT 10:00 AM
Tiny
RONALD DEVOLD
  • MEMBER
  • 134 POSTS
I replaced the timing chain assembly less than a year ago. I got rid of the car. Didn't have the need to put more money in it. I do thank you for your time and responses. On to my next project. Take care.
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Monday, April 28th, 2025 AT 2:40 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,144 POSTS
Hello, Ronald,

You are welcome, we are here to help.

Ken
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Tuesday, April 29th, 2025 AT 9:43 AM

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