Truck losing power

Tiny
PHOENICIA BRAZIER
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 CHEVROLET TAHOE
  • 5.8L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 250,000 MILES
SUV started to lose power when I drive and sometimes it doesn't want to accelerate and now its blowing white smoke and smells like something is burning. So, is the engine burning?
Tuesday, May 24th, 2022 AT 8:16 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
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  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

One of the most common causes for low power output or limp mode is having a dirty throttle actuator. Dirt and debris can impact the effectiveness of the throttle position and other sensors and that can trigger the limp mode.
Cleaning out the throttle body can improve drivability.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/throttle-actuator-service

As for the white smoke, does the vehicle overheat?
Typically, white smoke is due to a blown head gasket. In which the coolant will mix with oil and create smoke. Also, this will turn the oil to a milky white color.

Here is a helpful guide on how to test for blow head gasket:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

Let me know of any questions.

Thank you.
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Tuesday, May 24th, 2022 AT 9:28 PM
Tiny
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The truck is not overheating, the oil is not milky. I got a tune up and also a fuel pump because I thought someone put something in my tank. I also used some sea foam, they said a code on 3 and 7 misfire. I got the coils and injectors replaced and it seem like it has gotten worse.
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Tuesday, May 24th, 2022 AT 9:48 PM
Tiny
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Inspect the throttle actuator and clean it out, if you haven't already.
Does the running issue only happen after the truck warms up or all the time?
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Tuesday, May 24th, 2022 AT 10:48 PM
Tiny
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When I start it up sometimes I have to give it gas so it doesn't cut off then it runs okay. Then after it warms it sometimes won't accelerate, I have to let off the gas then it will run or try to idle down. It just started smoking a few days ago and it smells like I was burning rubber.
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Tuesday, May 24th, 2022 AT 10:56 PM
Tiny
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Is your check engine light illuminated? If so, do you know what code(s) it might be producing?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing
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Tuesday, May 24th, 2022 AT 11:07 PM
Tiny
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  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
The check engine light had been on for a while, and it was steady on, but not flashing. I cant recall the codes, but I will go up to AutoZone tomorrow and have them print them for me and I can let you know.
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Tuesday, May 24th, 2022 AT 11:16 PM
Tiny
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Sounds good. I want to see if that might give us a hint.
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Wednesday, May 25th, 2022 AT 3:56 PM

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