Chevy Equinox "Engine Power is Reduced" Causes & Fix

In this video, I am discussing the common issue of "Engine Power Reduced" warning message in Chevy Equinox vehicles. Many Chevy Equinox owners have experienced the "Engine Power Reduced" message, which can be a frustrating and concerning problem. I explain what this message means, what causes it, and how to fix it.
Written version: thehonestmecha...
The "Engine Power Reduced" warning in a Chevy Equinox indicates that the vehicle's computer (ECU) has detected an issue with the engine and has limited its power to prevent potential damage. This is also known as "Limp Mode." When the Chevy Equinox displays the "Engine Power Reduced" message, the engine automatically reduces its power to a safe level to avoid catastrophic engine damage while driving or when attempting to restart the vehicle.
There are several possible causes for the Chevy Equinox "Engine Power Reduced" warning, including a faulty throttle body, bad VVT solenoid, failing fuel pump, low or dirty engine oil, clogged catalytic converter, worn spark plugs or ignition coils, and a clogged fuel filter. I discuss each of these potential causes in detail, drawing from my experience as a mechanic working on Chevy Equinox vehicles displaying the "Engine Power Reduced" message.
If your Chevy Equinox is showing the "Engine Power Reduced" warning, I recommend taking it to a Chevrolet dealership or a trusted auto repair shop for a diagnostic scan. This will help pinpoint the specific cause of the issue, as the "Engine Power Reduced" message is a general fault code. Attempting to diagnose and fix the problem yourself without proper diagnostic information can be time-consuming and costly.
By understanding the meaning behind the Chevy Equinox "Engine Power Reduced" message and its potential causes, you can take the appropriate steps to fix the issue and prevent further damage to your vehicle. Don't ignore the "Engine Power Reduced" warning in your Chevy Equinox, as it can lead to more serious problems down the road.
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[@user-hm8lu7fl2i]

I have been having car problems forever (it feels like) my mechanic is fixing my fuel pump this week. However today for the first time the "Engine power reduced" light came on which lead me google what that was, which lead me to your video on youtube. All i can say is thank you for making this! I feel so informed now :) after monthsss of worrying and trying to fix it i feel so much better now and i feel like i have an idea what to do next after feeling helpless for so long. THANK YOU!

[@DunkleSnunkle]

Where is the high press fuel pump located on 2018 equinox?

[@aciddiver1978]

One thing i dont understand, why has many gas cars not a fuel filter nowadays? It has, but it is in the fuel tank, and therefore will not be replaced unless fuel pump is removed. Before it was often mounted on a gas feed line under the car and easy to replace.

[@HonestMechanicChannel]

I also preferred it the old way, however, This design shift is driven by the need for durability, space efficiency, reduced contamination risk, cost considerations, and compliance with environmental regulations. With improved fuel quality and advancements in filter technology, these internal filters are designed to last the vehicle's lifetime, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Although this integration simplifies the fuel system's design and manufacturing, it can make filter replacements more labor-intensive and costly, as access typically requires dropping the fuel tank or going through an access panel.

[@aciddiver1978]

​@@HonestMechanicChannelmakes sense. Environmental push through laws arent always a better way.

[@heatherguest5123]

What if your car isn't giving ANY codes after doing this?

[@chaosking1986]

Would it be better to go to the dealership or just a local mechanic

[@GoldMineArcade]

I have a question, I have a 2018 Chevy equinox. I was driving down the interstate today and ran over a big strap with a metal knuckle that fell off a semi. after I ran it over I got the reduced power message. I did a visual inspection and nothing seems to be out of the ordinary. Can I just disconnect the battery or what would you suggest checking for running something over?

[@HonestMechanicChannel]

Hi there, managed to solve the issue? Since you already did a visual inspection and everything seems to be in order. Yes you can try disconnecting the battery and see it it comes back, alternatively you can use an OBD scanner to clear fault codes and see if it returns.
Please let me know how it goes. Goodluck!

[@wendybarboza2134]

Same thing happened to me today , hit a tire on the freeway and this popped up . Did disconnecting the battery work ?

[@GoldMineArcade]

I found out it put a hole in my inter cooler. The car shop wanted $1,000 to fix it. I bought the part off Amazon for $140 and put it on myself (took about 1 hours)