Has no power

2002 MERCURY COUGAR
125,099 MILES • 2.5L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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KNOHE22
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
My rpm's can be at 4,000 and car is not shifting and barely accelerating. There is a deep loud engine noise too. But if I let up on the gas pedal entirely the rpm's shot down and when I feel the downshift I can again press on the gas and the car has maybe more power to go. I had the radiator replaced and ever since then it has not run right. It didn't run like this before the radiator replacement either.
Sep 19, 2020 at 9:25 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

The idea that it sounds different can indicate a couple things. Have you checked to make sure the air intake tube is properly installed? That is the hose that runs between the air filter box and the throttle body.

Also, a plugged catalytic converter can cause these same symptoms. However, I don't see how replacing the radiator would lead to this. The air box / inlet tube would have likely been removed. Check that first. Also, on the air inlet tube is the mass air flow sensor. Make sure it is connected.

If you look at pic 1, it shows the MAF sensor. Pic 2 shows the air filter box. I have an arrow pointing in the direction of the air inlet tube. Make sure everything is attached and not damaged.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions. Also, let me know if the check engine light is staying on when the engine is running.

Take care,
Joe
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Sep 19, 2020 at 9:36 PM
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KNOHE22
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No check engine light on. And it turns out my catalytic converter was clogged. Unfortunately after spending $800.00 for the radiator the cost of replacing the catalytic converter was not feasible, so I had to go a different route of bypassing it. Thank you for your help I appreciated it greatly.
Oct 14, 2020 at 11:29 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

I'm glad to hear you got it taken care of. Please keep in mind, not having the converter will end up setting other codes. When you are ready to replace it, let us know and we'll help you through it.

Take care,
Joe
Oct 15, 2020 at 6:14 PM