Problems with Acceleration and now Power Steering

[dbhynds]

I've got an '03 Civic with about 110000 miles.

About a month ago, it began having problems with the acceleration. At first, I noticed constant increased engine noise. It started becoming mildly lethargic when I'd try to accelerate. Then it would occasionally fail to accelerate. I would push the gas pedal down and nothing would happen. The engine would continue to idle like I wasn't giving it gas (despite the pedal being pushed to the floor). Then after about 5 seconds, it would very slowly begin to resume accelerating. This happened several times on the interstate, which was a bit terrifying.

At this point we brought it in to a mechanic. He suspected it was sludge built up in the engine and suggested I switch to a higher grade gas. I switched to premium for a few tanks, and things seemed to be improving.

However, today the acceleration problems resumed in full force. Once it almost left me stranded in a busy intersection. In addition, my power steering started going out intermittently.

I'm recently moved, and don't have a mechanic I trust yet. I'd love to get some opinions as to what it could be before I take it in. Any thoughts?

[Copytech99]

Is the check engine light on ??

If the engine speed drops very low it would affect power steering at the same time it was low.

Does the engine want to stall at all ?? Or just not want to accelerate ??

Edit: A source for a local mechanic should be available at click & clacks cartalk website. The phone book yellow pages may be a good source of info also.

[danielsatur]

Have your Catalytic converter checked ASAP, because a plugged Cat will not throw a code.

What Elements do you need for a good fire?
I think your car is being choke out, because of no Air.
How does your Temp guage look?

[dbhynds]

The check engine light goes on and off.

When the acceleration problem happens, the engine's RPM stays stable like the car is just idling in park. It doesn't seem like it's about to stall out or choke or anything. It just doesn't accelerate regardless of how far I depress the gas pedal. The engine doesn't sputter or struggle; it just fails to react.

[Copytech99]

I would get the codes read, it will help to narrow the problem down. Hopefully the codes will have been stored. Most large name auto parts store offer free code reading.

[jamesanderson1]

Its a great car which will provide you the best driving pleasure. Its simply the best one