Reduced engine performance

2011 VOLVO S40
155,555 MILES
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STECUMMO
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Hi, i keep on having a problem especially when am on the motorway.
I keep on getting a message which says reduced engine performance an then my speed drops to 30 mph and can't go over 2,000 revs. I don't have any amber light or any other warning lights on my dashboard.

Once i stop the car an wait about five minutes an then start it again, it is fine. any ideas what this could be? it is very frustrating and just happens completely random times so when i take it to a garage there are no signs of any thing wrong.
Apr 30, 2019 at 3:40 PM
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JIS001
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The first thing you should do is have the engine control module scanned for pending codes if the light has not come on yet. Here is a link on how to do it yourself if you can get a decent scan tool:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

If there are fault codes stored, post them on here so we can try and make sense on why your vehicle is going into fail safe mode? Most likely you may have an issue as a simple software update or just cleaning out the throttle body. Also scan the ABS and steering angle sensor for codes as well if you can get an advance scan tool or have an auto parts store scan it and let us know if any codes.
Apr 30, 2019 at 8:53 PM
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STRAILER
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It sounds like the car is going into limp mode due to a dirty throttle plate. here is a guide to help you fix the problem:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/reduced-power-limp-mode

Please run down this guide and report back.
May 1, 2019 at 12:07 PM
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