2001 Grand Am Loss of Power

[sweetums03]

2001 Grand Am SE w/2.2 4 cyl engine. Experiencing loss of power going up hills. I also noticed hesitation of the transmission with shifting up/down compared to previous experience.

New Plugs and Fuel Filter 600 miles ago. I have seen thread reference to a TCC sensor module that looks promising. Any thoughts? Thanks.

[mjgjr72]

possible clogged catylitic converter

[sweetums03]

Originally Posted by mjgjr72

possible clogged catylitic converter

Thanks for the prompt response.

[gebster76]

I am starting to have the same problems. I hope it isn't the tranny. I heard that the cat converter may be the cause of the problems. Did you get yours replaced? Did it solve the problem? I have a 2001 SE Grand Am 60,000 mi

[Slade901]

Is your Ignition System a COP (Coil on Plug)? Which means it does not use any spark plug wires because the Ignition Module, Ignition Coil is on one housing and directly connected to the spark plugs and thus no spark plug wires needed?

COP Ignition System is prone to failure. Specifically the coil housing is that one that is usually the culprit. You will notice it for sudden power loss and noticeable when going uphill.

Use a concentraded fuel injector cleaner. Some even uses two bottles of fuel injector on a full gas tank to clean the fuel injectors.

Like they say, the clogged catalytic converter will rob you of your power. A quick way is to use a exhaust back pressure with gauge. You just have to remove the O2 sensor and put that backpressure tester in there and start the vehicle. Above 2 PSI means that the catalytic converter is restricted.

[sweetums03]

Well, the verdict is in. It was a clogged catalytic converter. Fortunately, I had 2000 miles left on the warranty for it.

Thanks to all who helped me out with this information. I was able to list off a series of possible causes from you guys that really made me sound like I was an automotive expert. Whether it had any effect on the dealerships service department will never be known, but it sure helps a rookie like me that sometimes feels powerless at a garage.

[gebster76]

wow that is amazing mine was the catalytic converter. I go to pick mine up tomorrow. I thought it was the tranny at first but after I drove around with a mechanic he concluded it wasnt the tranny and the signs leaned more strongly to being the converter. 01 ga

thanks everyone! $210.00 with labor I paid