02 SC2 - Bogged down/suffocating - ideas welcomed

[Clunkers]

2002 SC2 Automatic with 93k
Recently, when I try to accelerate at higher speeds, the car just literally “bogs” down and struggles to get moving. At lower speeds its ok – but once I hit about 35 mph or higher, she feels like she’s suffocating.
Weird thing is, it’s not consistent and once it warms up enough, the problem lessens.

So here were my thoughts – first the fuel filter. But at $100+, I wanted to look into a possible cheaper solution.

I had a ’97 SL2 that had one of those infamous cracked ETCS…. Is it possible that Saturn ignored that flaw all the way through 2002, and that could be my issue? BUT I have absolutely no issues with my Temp or coolant level….

I went to the Saturn Dealership and got talking to one of the Techs there. I told him the symptoms and he seemed positive it was the EGR ($140+). He mentioned that the EGR is probably failing, due to the fact my issues begin at 35+ mph.

SO – it seems nothing will be exactly cheap to fix this, but I’d rather get it right the first time, rather than replacing part, after part, after part…

Already done:
Spark plugs
Plug wires
PCV
Air filter
- not a vacuum leak
- NO Service Dash Lights on or Codes coming up!

Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time

[RC1488]

Clean your EGR. No need to replace it yet.

Fuel filter is good for 100k. Mine has 200k and 140k in the '02 and '01 respectively.

I doubt its your ECTS.

Its possible its your cat or precat. Removing the front o2 sensor and driving the car will tell. If you get your power back, thats your issue

[plymouthsrock]

I don't see how an EGR problem would give you this symptom- a clogged cat or fuel delivery problem would seem more likely. They are both relatively easy to test.