Mon-Fri: 8:00 am – 5:30 pm, Sat & Sun Closed
7107 Canoga Ave Canoga Park, CA 91303
818-710-8244
Power loss used to be such a simple issue in the days of carburetors and mechanical fuel pumps. The source was almost always a clogged fuel source or vapor lock. In today’s world of intricate fuel systems, however, the explanation may not always be so simple. Causes range from various electrical malfunctions, fuel system issues, and even lubrication system problems.
All of these problems can be boiled down into two categories: issues with your fuel delivery and exhaust system or your cylinders. If your Acura has a sudden and unexpected loss of power while accelerating, it could be a sign that there is something seriously wrong, or it could be a simple, easy fix. Either way, it’s a good idea to bring your vehicle in to the nearest mechanic immediately, as losing power on the highway or in city traffic can be incredibly dangerous.
Fuel delivery issues are one of two overarching reasons for your Acura to suddenly lose power. Under this umbrella sits a list of direct causes, any one or combination of which could be responsible. Relatedly, you may also notice issues with your exhaust system, specifically with your catalytic converter.
The fuel pump is responsible for diverting gas to your engine through fuel lines. If you have issues with your fuel pump, you may notice a delayed acceleration or sudden loss of power. The primary reason Acura owners experience problems with their fuel pumps is when the fuel filter becomes clogged. This can be the result of normal wear and tear or buildup of debris. Additionally, issues with your fuel lines, such as cracks or leaks, can keep fuel from reaching your injectors, which will cause your vehicle’s performance to suffer.
If you notice that you have delayed or slow acceleration or a sudden loss of propulsion in conjunction with decreased fuel economy, the problem may lie with your fuel injector. This part of your vehicle’s engine is responsible for injecting fuel into the combustion chamber in proper proportions to move your vehicle forward. If it becomes clogged with oil, dirt, or road debris, your acceleration may suffer.
If you have issues with your catalytic converter, unfortunately, the only solution is frequently to replace the entire part. Symptoms of a failing catalytic converter include sudden loss of power, inability to accelerate, dark exhaust smoke from your tailpipe, and a hot engine or underside of your vehicle.
If you’re losing power suddenly or having trouble accelerating but it’s not related to your fuel lines, the second most likely culprit is your cylinders. The fixes for worn or broken cylinders vary depending on the exact mode of failure, but chances are, you’ll have to replace the bad parts.
If you have misfiring or worn spark plugs, you may not notice immediately, as the loss of power can be gradual or intermittent. This is due to the fact that the amount of power you lose is proportional to the misfiring rate of the spark plugs. You may notice your car jerking, jolting, shuddering, or even dying altogether while driving. On the other hand, the damage may be limited to a delayed or slow acceleration.
Sometimes, loss of power or acceleration can be due to damage to the head gaskets, or the rubber seals inside your cylinders. Most frequently, this issue occurs if you have chronic overheating in your engine. If your head gasket fails, this can result in the head of your cylinders cracking, which can lead to further issues. In addition to loss of power, you may notice white smoke billowing from your exhaust pipes.
If you notice that your Acura is no longer 
responding when you hit the gas or if you have problems with your vehicle suddenly losing power while driving, don’t neglect to get help!
Bring your vehicle into Euro Plus Automotive. We gladly service the Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles County, CA areas. Our trained technicians have been working in these great communities for over 30 years. No matter the make and model of your European or Japanese vehicle, it will be treated with the respect and care it deserves.
* Acura MDX image credit goes to: kurmyshov.
Euro Plus Automotive specializes in maintenance, services, & repairs with certified technicians and cutting-edge tools & equipment for European vehicles including Audi, BMW, Mercedes, & more as well as Japanese cars like Honda, Nissan, Toyota, & more.
Site Design & Marketing by 
7107 CANOGA AVE CANOGA PARK, CA 91303
