What causes Reduced Engine Power Message?
Despite all the amazing attributes of the Chevy Traverse vehicle, one common warning message that the owners have had to encounter time and again is the “Reduced Engine power”. It is often accompanied by the check engine light, depending on the vehicle model.
This issue can be a result of a number of reasons. These range widely and include throttle body problems, circuit problems, faulty pedal position sensors, cooling system issues, engine performance problems, faulty alternators, and low-voltage batteries. To remove the warning, the underlying problem has to be first addressed.
This article sheds some light on the phenomenon when the traction control is off, and you receive the warning message of reduced engine power.
What does Reduced Engine Power Mean?
It is important to first understand what the warning message implies and what it means to the overall performance of the vehicle. In most cases, whenever the warning message comes up, it means that the performance of your vehicle has been intentionally limited. It is often very frustrating and the check engine light is triggered since the powertrain control module has detected a system failure or reduced engine performance.
What causes a Reduced engine power message?
There are so many possibilities that may have led to the warning message. Below are some of the common ones.
Throttle body problems.
The most common trigger of reduced engine power is issues with the electronic throttle actuator control. In this system, the PCM works to monitor the two accelerator position sensors to check driver’s desire to accelerate. It then calculates the appropriate throttle response from the throttle sensors. With the right information, the PCM is able to operate the throttle and thus, control the airflow to the engine. Therefore, whenever the throttle body fails or is dirty, it can lead to reduced engine power.
Bad pedal position sensor
Any issues arising from the throttle actuator control system could lead to the warning message. This includes the accelerator pedal position sensors—if one or both of them is malfunctioning, there is reduced engine power.
Circuit issues
The issue could be a result of circuit issues such as poor connections or damaged wires. They prevent the throttle system to optimally perform its tasks causing a range of problems. These include the reduced engine power message.
Cooling system issues
Some vehicles will go into reduced engine power whenever the engine is overheating due to cooling system issues. The PCM tends to trigger the message as a way to protect the engine from further damage.
Engine performance problems
Sometimes, the reduced engine power warning message is displayed to notify the driver that the vehicle lacks power because of underlying engine conditions. For instance, in case of a faulty high-pressure pump, the engine power is likely to be reduced, causing the warning.
Loose connections
Wires are very crucial parts for the normal functioning of virtually any component in the car. Hence, in case of any issues on the same, some problems will arise that may alter the engine performance. Wire issues vary greatly from minor loose clamps to more serious damaged connections. Some of them can be easily fixed, while others may require more.
Faulty alternator
Whenever the alternator starts failing, it becomes impossible for it to supply sufficient electricity to the engine causing shutdown. This often triggers the reduced engine power warning message.
Low voltage batteries
Whenever the battery in the car is nearly drained, it is not able to send enough energy which in turn reduced engine performance. This is likely to trigger the reduced engine power warning. The engine will continue to operate until the battery is completely drained, and the energy supply is cut off.
How to fix reduced engine power in Chevy Traverse?
Getting rid of the reduced engine power message is no easy affair. You will have to perform diagnostics to find an appropriate fix.
Check for diagnostics trouble codes
The first thing would be to check all DTCs using an appropriate scan tool. These codes tend to direct you to further diagnostics—they are not a complete diagnosis but will show you where to look. As mentioned above, the main cause for reduced engine power is issues with the throttle body. Hence, the codes you can expect to see include P0120, P0121, P0123, P0220, and P0638.
Look up technical service bulletins
The Technical Service Bulletins issued by the manufacturer can be very helpful. These tend to address some known issues and document a repair procedure to guide you. For example, there are TSBs that address the reduced engine power on some GM models.
Consult factory repair information
Another thing you can do is to consult the factory repair information from a repair manual or the database. Here, you find a comprehensive diagnosis and repair instructions specific to your vehicle.
FAQs
Can I drive with the reduced engine power light on?
Technically, it is possible to drive with the reduced engine power light on, but it is not recommended. It is advisable to have your vehicle towed to the nearest repair station, as driving at low speeds can be dangerous for you and other drivers. Moreover, failure to address it immediately could lead to additional damage. Also, sometimes the vehicle may shut off completely if there is reduced engine power.
How do I reset the reduced engine power light?
Just like the check engine light, you cannot simply reset the reduced engine power warning with just the push of a button or switch. To get the warning permanently off, you are required to have a mechanic fix the underlying problem that triggered it. hence, you can start by retrieving the diagnostic codes.
Conclusion
When the traction control is off, and the engine power reduction message is displayed on your Chevy Traverse, immediate action needs to be taken. The potential causes for the reduced engine power will vary depending on the year and model of the vehicle. Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding on how to go about the issue.
