Diagnostics · 4 min read
Why is my car losing power?
A sudden drop in performance is usually the car protecting itself. Most modern vehicles reduce power deliberately when a fault is detected.
Limp mode
If power is capped, revs are limited and a warning light is on, the engine control unit has put the car into a protective mode. There will almost always be a stored fault code explaining why.
Air, fuel and boost
Turbo and boost-related faults, blocked filters, failing sensors and air leaks all reduce power. On diesels, a partially blocked DPF is a very common cause, particularly on cars used mainly for short journeys.
Gradual vs sudden
Power that has faded over months tends to be wear or restriction. Power that disappeared in a single journey tends to be a specific fault, and is easier to pin down.
Bookings
Book your car into the workshop
Tell us your registration and what the car is doing. We'll come back to you to confirm a date.