Wow! This worked! Thank you sooo much. This afternoon while driving to work (Jan 1) my 2009 malibu suddenly slowed right down, engine light came on, Eng PWR Reduced message popped up as well as the traction light. I managed to pull over and turned off car. WTheck I thought. I managed to get to my destination but had my hazards on as I couldnt accelerate over 50 Kph. I was just ready to call a tow truck to bring to shop and thought I would google the problem. Note: I know very little about under the hood of a vehicle. Of course all the other TH-cam/google info listed a number of costly things that would need repairing/replacing as you stated you tried yourself. Then I came across your video and the title caught my eye (...**SIMPLE FIX***). I recalled when looking under the hood that a small reservior was almost empty...which I then googled the recovery tank and there it was with a photo of it half full. I went out just now and purchased the coolant recommended in my manual, put it in and started the car. Voila!!! All messages and lights cleared. THANK YOU SO MUCH for this video! Could have costed me $$$ and just after Christmas would have been tough. Bless you!
Hi kim as I would check why you were missing fluid . If your coolant is low it could be a head gasket and to check for that take out the dipstick for OIL. If your oil is starting to look like chocolate milk don't drive . If you have been driving and your oil level is way over filled that's real bad. If oil is ok and you have to add coolant once every little bit find the leak . Hose -rad or the water pump . I hope it has not been to long .Good luck. PS I told my son if the engine light comes on find out what caused it before you drive anywhere . If you are in a hot climate or if it is summer have a code reader in your car it can save you thousands. Also before going to a mechanic ask someone you trust so you are not ripped off .
Really I'm having this problem now message just popped up engine reduce message along with check engine light I've been to auto zone an a couple other shops an just frustrated not to mention I just purchased the car with only 100k miles on it a week ago an I instantly came to TH-cam saw this video an watched it to the end an within the next ten minutes I'll be trying this on my 2006 Chevy Impala
My 2012 chevy Malibu is doing the same thing ! It started today ! So thank god I came across your video b4 I spent money on parts and just so happened to have antifreeze/coolant in my trunk ! I popped the hood n put it in ! I'll drive it tomorrow n see if this works ! Pray me for that it does ! I literally was on the highway with my 6 month old in the car n my car was slowing down and driving slow with my foot on the gas petal. I have an extended warranty on it and called the dealership n ofcourse they tried to beat around n talk fast talking bout I'll have to pay 100 just to get it checked. Luckily my car was low on coolant when I popped the hood bc I think that might be my problem as well ! Wish me luck like seriously bc I'm a single mom n I can't afford for it to be a hefty bill 😩
Mine was doing this similar stuff so I checked n it was hella low so I put antifreeze tonight and it's seeming to work. car started right up n sounded much more powerful. hoping it works. thanks so much I just spent money all week on Uber And mechanic cuz it wouldn''t turn over at all. tonight it's MUCH BETTER AFTER PUTTING ANTIFREEZE TURNED RIGHT OVER,🙌🙌🙌🙌
Thank you so much for posting this video. I have a 2018 Malibu rental for lyft and I was not going to put any real money in it. You saved me taking it back and literally put money back in my pocket because I can go back to work now! Thank you again.
DUDE, been there done that. Sometimes a second pair of eyes works wonders. Don't feel like an idiot cuz everybody makes the most simple of mistakes. Been wrenchin for years and I still make dumbass mistakes. Thanx for the video, good shit man!
My ESC light was on and my traction light was on. I was freaking out thinking I had to spend all this money to fix my car. I started watching videos on TH-cam to find out how to fix it and I came across your video. I Immediately went and check my antifreeze and I was completely out of antifreeze!! I added some to my car and now my light is off and it’s driving normal again. Thank you so much for this video!! Your a lifesaver!
I just wanted to thank you for posting this video!! My car started doing the same thing yours did a few days ago and I had no idea what I was going to do...I'm a single mom barely making ends meet and right here at Christmas time my car breaking down was the last thing I needed. We all got in the car last night and drove 5mph to get to Walmart to get antifreeze to test it out and we all prayed real hard before we drove off and as of this morning on my way to work there's been no problems with my car.....you saved Christmas for my kids......thought I was gonna have to take their stuff back to get my car running. God bless you and your family and Happy holidays!!!!! Thank you again!!!!
Man, you saved me big time. I literally just left the shop getting my A/C fixed. Had a shortage. When I left as I was driving it saved “engine power reduced” so I turned right back around. As I turned around I started to look up what it could be and I found your video. I told them that it would possibly be the anti-freeze and low and behold I was a little low, and they filled it for me and the light came RIGHT off! Thanks man sorry you had to go through this but you sure did bless a lot of people with your experience
Great video man, my chevy is kinda like in the same situation yoirs was, had my 4l60e rebuilt about 3 months ago , drobe great for 4 days, but went into limp mode, no reduced engine came on the cluster, but check eng light popped on ,it will never ho into limp mode while driving, just when stop at the store,start up ,its like its in 3rd gear, il pull out scanner clear all the codes a,b solonoids, shift solonoid, torque converter solonoid open ,once code cleared drives awesome, iv put a new battery, new altenater, checked all ground wires, it will drive great for 200 miles, then when ,i stop at gas station back to limp mode, i was jus like you, ready to leave it, frustrated man, 2mrw morn im gonna check my anti freeze, the resboir is where it needs to be, maybe il flush system distilled water and dex kool, once again great material
Wow just had this exact problem i almost called Triple A and started dreading about spending lots of money I was actually in target and bought the antifreeze and problem solved wow!!!!!
I had the same problem with my 2002 Trailblazer about one year ago. When I was driving on a highway, reduced engine power light came on and it reduced speed to 15 or 20 mph. I pulled over and checked all connectors around throttle body and everything was fine. I was about to call for help when I just disconnected the battery waited for about 10 minutes, connected it back and then everything was fine, I did not do anything else. Like I said, that happened about a year ago and I have not had the problem again. I hope my experience helps somebody.
Ricardo Macias yea I tried that numerous of times. It worked for a min then goes right back. Everyone experiences seems to be different. I’m just glad I can help ppl
What an idea, what a fix! Thanks for the tip, have been struggling with reduced engine power crap on a 2010 Equinox 4 cylinder for more than six months with no success. I hate wasting money to shoot the “parts cannon” at these problems that can turn out to have a simple fix. Thanks to your father for being wise enough to suggest the cure!
King Markey McFly . Right after commenting on this great tip, I had to replace my alternator because the bearings rusted up while the car has been sitting up these many months. However, I viewed a video by Scotty Kilmer yesterday at this link: th-cam.com/video/qYX4kRaOvTM/w-d-xo.html, where he explains what goes wrong chemically with old antifreeze and how old antifreeze can affect the readings of any sensor exposed to bad antifreeze. After 5 years, or so, depending on what your owners manual says, you need to replace your antifreeze with one that the manufacturer recommends. The color of the antifreeze varies depending on its chemical makeup, and you want to use the right kind. This is pretty much what this gentleman found based on his father’s great advice. To answer your question directly, I haven’t changed my antifreeze yet, but it is on the “to do” list before I crank it again. Some TH-camrs suggest draining the old antifreeze from the radiator first, filling the radiator with clear water, putting the cap on, running it for a few minutes, then cut off the engine, wait a few minutes, then drain it. He says the first few flushes will be dirty, as the buildup of gunk gets flushed out. When the drain water is clear, you can add the new antifreeze according to instructions. Each cycle with fresh water, run the engine for only a short time, and do not let the engine overheat. I have also added 5 gallons of gas to my practically empty tank, which is another tip I found. If the vapor pressure in the closed gas tank is too low, you also get the warning lights.
I did exactly what you said my 09 Malibu no longer has this problem I was a little skeptical about such an easy fix but you sir along with your dad know exactly what you're talking about
Same thing happened to me on Friday as I was going through a tunnel. I couldn’t get past 40 mph unless I took my foot off the gas for a second. I was worried it was going to cause a lot of money but decided to TH-cam it before I took it to the dealership or buy parts. So I brought the GM antifreeze and it ran like a champ. I have a 2015 impala. Thank you for the video bro.
People you must watch this video before you try fixing your car. Definitely checked all the fluids in my car first. Changed the oil and added water and the problem was solved. Thank you!
I’m having the same engine reduced power and putting it’s not accelerating but it’s not shutting off I’ve replaced valve solenoids, crankshaft sensor and ignition switch but it’s still the same problem I’m thinking it’s relays
No need to feel dumb. It's 2018 and for years cars have had a low coolant sensor and a light that tells you it's low. I feel like this is a ploy by General Motors to get people to take the car to the dealer so you can pay them $100 plus just to put coolant in the car. That's bad business. I just bought a 2010 on Saturday for waaaay too much money (bad credit=buy here pay here=gonna get screwed) but I hope I don't have these problems, but if it does I'll know to check the coolant. Thanks man.
Thanks for the tip! This worked on my 2011 Impala with the 3.5l V6. Check engine light was on, code P2122. It already has a new throttle body so was sure it wasn't that. Showed my son your video he is a budding mechanic, said yup makes sense actually because the car doesn't want to overheat so it's throwing a reduced power and throttle body code.
Your video saved me alot of money last night!. I had the same problem. My Malibu just started trippin for no reason. I was just sitting in park and when I went to pull off the gas was working but the car was barely moving. It said service esc and traction control. The engine light was on any everything. Went to TH-cam to find answers and ur video was the first to pop up. Once I made it home I noticed the antifreeze was a lil low. Once I added more the car was back to normal. I wanted to make sure I gave you ur props!💯.
Just wondering if anyone actually tried to find the root cause as to why the computer thru the pwr code in the first place. I don't see why antifreeze level would have anything directly to do with it
Don’t feel bad my solution was worse than yours. My car was slow to accelerate, I had to push all the way down on the gas just to go 20-35mph. Go to Midas he tells me what I’m describing doesn’t make sense based on the fact no lights were on. Connects scanner, drives my car around and tells me it was my winter mat’s lodged partially underneath the accelerator 🥴🤦🏾♀️ I was so embarrassed I just wasted that man’s time, he was super nice about it tho. We got a good laugh. 😂
Yea fix didnt work idk what's wrong with mines it just started sputtering today, I have a 2011 chevy malibu. Smh cars are pieces of shit. Not even two weeks ago I had to rewire my headlight because it kept going in and out, the connector was completely fried. Then today my car started the reduced power, service ESC and traction control and what do you know! Was letting up my windows and the damn panel where all the buttons for the windows are, literally fried and started smoking, so now the front passenger window wont let down unless you let the back passenger window down then it will come down as well but then sometimes it wont work at all.
Modern cars with fail safe methods to keep you from damaging the engine and over heating the car. The dealer knows these tricks of the trade. Good looking on the information. Just makes me step my game up on fixing these modern cars.
Man... I watched this video the same day my car was scheduled to be picked up by a junker. Was told by my mechanic of 35 years that my engine and transmission were bad. I figured it was worth a try, so I stopped at autozone and got some coolant. Bam, just like that, no more issues. Can't thank you enough for this video dude.
Engine power reduced / ESC (traction control). I found that the Camshaft position sensor causes this error. Next time you get the ESC?Engine reduced try disconnecting the Camshaft sensor (its by oil dip stick on the 2.4l). Replace it when you can and this should fix that issue.
@@nikaboo10204eva yes!, that engine has 2 cam sensors. One in front and one in back. It can run without both, but the back sensor does affect the operation of the car (it hesitates to start).
@@erinmcdermott3028 Make sure you buy OEM, Original parts. Not that Autozone or similar parts place. I did and my car just did not like the parts. Warning: The back sensor is sensitive, it can cause major issues if replaced with some 3rd party parts. Mine would randomly turn of and not restart until i cleared the check engine error light. Only to have the car turn of randomly again.
I went through this recently with an 08 Malibu hybrid. Took it into garage. Turns out that clogged catalytic converter was causing the issue. It had 2. Both replaced. Zero issues with that since. Just wanted to share my experience.
Thank you very much man you saved my life I was about to take it to the mechanic I was expecting to pay at least 300 dollars but I put a little antifreeze that I had and the car is running like new again !! Thank you again
Lol best yall can do here is get rid of that trash chevy cars lol in 2015 i bought a 2010 chevy cobalt lt n had it for 4 years n it always had that engine power reduced shit, countless diagnoses n trying to fix it, no one ever could. Its just a gm electrical programing problem that they themselves cant fix.. in 2020 i got a 2018 elantra sport with 20k miles npw with 70k miles, 0 problems n absolutely amazing ride. Js get a different car i know times are rough but dont buy american cars they suck, go with toyota, Honda, mazda n hyundai n kia ( non base models cause they stealing them😂) n you'll be good
For those on here that only had to put antifreeze to fix this issue your luck I done it several time it didn't change a thing I feel like abandoning this car in the woods car runs so bad i would rather walk
Check the intake manifold assembly at the back side of the engine (between the engine and the firewall), it might be loose and letting unmetered air in.
Here I am with a fucking 2017 Mali lt... light is on AGAIN..this is the 11th time!! Will let you know if your tip works... hopefully cuz literally I'm that chic that can't change a tire but I can do this. FML... it was -37c this time..double dangerous
Having a problem with my 2011 chevy Malibu. Code keeps coming up saying the throttle position sensor is bad. & every now and then it will start shaking real bad and the engine light comes on then it stops for a while. Did this ever happen to you? Going to check & see if it need antifreeze like you did before I spend the money on a new throttle body sensor. Thanks!
Excuse your language? Are you kidding? You got a Chevy Malibu. My 84 year old mother- in - law developed the same language havin a 2013 piece of Chevy shit! Malibu’s suck.
My Chevy Malibu wont start i think its cause of reduce engine power imma check the antifreeze bro 💯 i swear u must be a malibu 😇 or something 😂 cause all the comments u saying u saved them and i agree because i was on the verge of buying (spark plug pedal sensor, already cleaned own throttle body ,and already habe the mass airflow sensor ) maybe i need a new battery instead of trying to start it with a used battery from junkyard..plusbit kept reading gas/air not enough air or something (water pump,air filter, one bul tryna tell me i need a whole new ecm
I have an 08 Malibu and it would turn off occasionally like I would feel it losing power, cut it off then start the engine again and it’ll be fine. It did this maybe 10 times over 4 years. Then one day it lost power I turned it off and on , got to the next stop sign and it powered down and it’s been sitting out front for a year almost any suggestions anyone.?
I have the same car and year! If I go out here and put some antifreeze in this car and it work. I’m gonna scream and I haven’t drive my car in two months because it said engine power reduced…🤦🏾♀️🤦🏾♀️🤦🏾♀️
I having these same exact issues with my 2017 Chevy Malibu. I was about to take it to mechanic n miss work today to leave my car there. I’m going to Walmart to try this before i do anything else. I’m praying this works for me. Thank you for this video.
Thanks brotha, I have to try this on my daughters car. Man, after all that work and money you spent, I hope you got to treat yourself somehow. Thanks again
Acabo de arreglar el problema, es la bomba de combustible. Si sienten que el carro se jalonea de repente o que a veces le cuesta hacer los cambios, es por esto. Los errores que les aparecen son engine power reduced, serv traction, esc off.
Glad I found d your video man!! Exact same shit is going down with my 08 impala ls...I put some antifreeze in a few days ago and so far its fine..I was getting ready to do the same on buying basically everything you did then I came across your video. I know it sucks you spent all that cash but by you posting this video its helping people out a lot and I appreciate you for sharing. Don't feel dumb cause hell with all the videos of what could be wrong what else could we do lol...my next car I get will not be a Chevy that's for sure. 😎👍
BANANAHAMMER420 hey man glad I could help. My car still running fine till this day. But I won’t ever buy a Malibu again. Lol. I’m going for the hell cat charger next lol🤷🏾♂️.
WOW..BRO..I FEEL YOU MAN. I HAD TO DO ALMOST WT YOU WENT THROUGH ,AND ON THE EDGE BURN THE F@%# CAR AND HOPEFULLY THAT WOULD SOLVE THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT THAT NVR WENT AWAY, AND " MY DAUGHTER HAD MENTIONED THAT SHE WAS IN A HURY AFTER SHE HAD PUMPED GAS A FEW DAYS AGO,,AND "POP THAT WAS THE PROBLEM,,THAT SHE DIDN'T SEAL OR TIGHTEN THE GASS CAP...DAYUUM WAS A MAD !!
This works for real you guys! I have 2012 Malibu it starting doing this last night . Boy am I glad I found this video a SIMPLE $14 fix. Thank you for making this video cause all the other videos kept saying throttle body
man I feel just as stupid en from watching your video bro. because I literally bought just about everything you did, and still had the same problems but just noticed today the car was low on antifreeze. I really hope this works and thanks for posting this video with some really helpful news.
Tell your dad thanks 😊 you guys just saved my pockets. The lights popped up while on the hwy I pulled over sat at a mechanics shop then found your video. Lol I drove right off!
Mines was the throttle bottle needed to be changed. So I order the part off amazon and replaced it took all but 10 minuets to get the part off and the new one on. And that was about 6 months ago haven’t had the car ( reduce engine speeds, service ESC etc)
Good video dude! Like some others pointed out these systems fail and make your car run horrible to 'protect' your car but don't seem to isolate the problem in the error codes very well. Actually pretty shitty (by design?). Seems like Chevy could design a better error code system to isolate the problem rather than giving you all these codes at once, and then having to figure out which one it is. PS: bro check and see if you got a leak in the coolant reservoir. Mine did and that's how the car got low on antifreeze and never registered hot on gauges...
Mine was fixed more than a month ago. It was a Thermostat. And the lower radiator hose burst a couple of time especially in traffic. I drive an Opel Astra. 2011. eversince its been changed, no Engine power reduced problems.
Wow thish was so helpful!!!! Same scenario but didn't spend all the money on fixing other stuff. Had some coolant in the trunck when this started happening. Amazing made the car run 60 percent better. Thank again.
This problem started for me about a week or so ago, I hope this can be the fix, got to check it out.. That reduced engine thing is scary, especially on the freeway, always makes me grateful I work 2nd shift, and usually not as many ppl on the road going home lol
Wow! This worked! Thank you sooo much. This afternoon while driving to work (Jan 1) my 2009 malibu suddenly slowed right down, engine light came on, Eng PWR Reduced message popped up as well as the traction light. I managed to pull over and turned off car. WTheck I thought. I managed to get to my destination but had my hazards on as I couldnt accelerate over 50 Kph. I was just ready to call a tow truck to bring to shop and thought I would google the problem. Note: I know very little about under the hood of a vehicle. Of course all the other TH-cam/google info listed a number of costly things that would need repairing/replacing as you stated you tried yourself. Then I came across your video and the title caught my eye (...**SIMPLE FIX***). I recalled when looking under the hood that a small reservior was almost empty...which I then googled the recovery tank and there it was with a photo of it half full. I went out just now and purchased the coolant recommended in my manual, put it in and started the car. Voila!!! All messages and lights cleared. THANK YOU SO MUCH for this video! Could have costed me $$$ and just after Christmas would have been tough. Bless you!
I'm about to try it aswell I'm having the same issue hopefully works
Hi kim as I would check why you were missing fluid . If your coolant is low it could be a head gasket and to check for that take out the dipstick for OIL. If your oil is starting to look like chocolate milk don't drive . If you have been driving and your oil level is way over filled that's real bad. If oil is ok and you have to add coolant once every little bit find the leak . Hose -rad or the water pump . I hope it has not been to long .Good luck. PS I told my son if the engine light comes on find out what caused it before you drive anywhere . If you are in a hot climate or if it is summer have a code reader in your car it can save you thousands. Also before going to a mechanic ask someone you trust so you are not ripped off .
Really I'm having this problem now message just popped up engine reduce message along with check engine light I've been to auto zone an a couple other shops an just frustrated not to mention I just purchased the car with only 100k miles on it a week ago an I instantly came to TH-cam saw this video an watched it to the end an within the next ten minutes I'll be trying this on my 2006 Chevy Impala
Mr beo Mr beo . I just got a 2010 I’m Curious did it work for your car
IM HAVING THIS PROBLEM RIGHT AS WE SPEAK , CAR CUT OFF
My 2012 chevy Malibu is doing the same thing ! It started today ! So thank god I came across your video b4 I spent money on parts and just so happened to have antifreeze/coolant in my trunk ! I popped the hood n put it in ! I'll drive it tomorrow n see if this works ! Pray me for that it does ! I literally was on the highway with my 6 month old in the car n my car was slowing down and driving slow with my foot on the gas petal. I have an extended warranty on it and called the dealership n ofcourse they tried to beat around n talk fast talking bout I'll have to pay 100 just to get it checked. Luckily my car was low on coolant when I popped the hood bc I think that might be my problem as well ! Wish me luck like seriously bc I'm a single mom n I can't afford for it to be a hefty bill 😩
Regina andrews hey how did it turn out???
It still starts funny but it's not engine power reducing or service traction anymore
oh ok at least thats not the issue anymore. try your o2 censors
Spark plugs
4:18 is where he tells you what he did.
James Mata Thank you very much.
Telling his whole Fuckn life story god damn
James Mata thankyou lol
15shorty 21215 lol I had to. I was mad
I had to unplug the sensor, now thank you
Jus tried this 15 minutes ago...so far, so good! I'm not sure how/why this was the culprit, but thanks a million!!! Hope it holds!!!
Mine was doing this similar stuff so I checked n it was hella low so I put antifreeze tonight and it's seeming to work. car started right up n sounded much more powerful. hoping it works. thanks so much I just spent money all week on Uber And mechanic cuz it wouldn''t turn over at all. tonight it's MUCH BETTER AFTER PUTTING ANTIFREEZE TURNED RIGHT OVER,🙌🙌🙌🙌
Two weeks later the car is still running great 👍🏾 🤷🏾♂️🤦🏾♂️
RebelFUGI still driving fine? Should be about a month now right
Cierra Mackey yes still driving good. Lol idk what the hell that was but I️t was going on for weeks. The car is still running great
RebelFUGI is the car worth buying overall?
Silas Rodriguez no I would never buy another Chevy Malibu for that body style
RebelFUGI thanks because I’m needing to get a better car during tax time so I’ll know to stay away from those
Thank you so much for posting this video. I have a 2018 Malibu rental for lyft and I was not going to put any real money in it. You saved me taking it back and literally put money back in my pocket because I can go back to work now! Thank you again.
DUDE, been there done that. Sometimes a second pair of eyes works wonders. Don't feel like an idiot cuz everybody makes the most simple of mistakes. Been wrenchin for years and I still make dumbass mistakes. Thanx for the video, good shit man!
Thanks man. No problem.
My ESC light was on and my traction light was on. I was freaking out thinking I had to spend all this money to fix my car. I started watching videos on TH-cam to find out how to fix it and I came across your video. I Immediately went and check my antifreeze and I was completely out of antifreeze!! I added some to my car and now my light is off and it’s driving normal again. Thank you so much for this video!! Your a lifesaver!
Kayla Nevils mines had a lot in there did yours?
how is your car doing now ?
@@kingkobra907 mine has a lot in there orange liquid
I added antifreeze car still doing the same thing
I just wanted to thank you for posting this video!! My car started doing the same thing yours did a few days ago and I had no idea what I was going to do...I'm a single mom barely making ends meet and right here at Christmas time my car breaking down was the last thing I needed. We all got in the car last night and drove 5mph to get to Walmart to get antifreeze to test it out and we all prayed real hard before we drove off and as of this morning on my way to work there's been no problems with my car.....you saved Christmas for my kids......thought I was gonna have to take their stuff back to get my car running. God bless you and your family and Happy holidays!!!!! Thank you again!!!!
Kristin Childres your welcome. I’m a single father actually so I kno it can be hard. I’m glad I could help
sounds like my story. Im poor, disabled and single. I hope this helps
This almost killed me and family I was on the e way this should be a recall . Going 70 mph and engine power reduced right in traffic on the interstate
@@steelers4lyfe499 70 mph and in traffic? Make up your mind
Thanks bud! This video was very helpful. Saved me a ton of time and money.
This video old as fuck and my 2018 Malibu started to do the same as his smh check coolant it was low filled it back up and boom no more problem!!!
@@keeneanjackson374 💯💯💯 glad it worked for you
Same thing with my 2012 chevy malibu I'ma try anti freeze
Man, you saved me big time. I literally just left the shop getting my A/C fixed. Had a shortage. When I left as I was driving it saved “engine power reduced” so I turned right back around. As I turned around I started to look up what it could be and I found your video. I told them that it would possibly be the anti-freeze and low and behold I was a little low, and they filled it for me and the light came RIGHT off! Thanks man sorry you had to go through this but you sure did bless a lot of people with your experience
Tremaine Woods no problem man. Glad I could help.
Great video man, my chevy is kinda like in the same situation yoirs was, had my 4l60e rebuilt about 3 months ago , drobe great for 4 days, but went into limp mode, no reduced engine came on the cluster, but check eng light popped on ,it will never ho into limp mode while driving, just when stop at the store,start up ,its like its in 3rd gear, il pull out scanner clear all the codes a,b solonoids, shift solonoid, torque converter solonoid open ,once code cleared drives awesome, iv put a new battery, new altenater, checked all ground wires, it will drive great for 200 miles, then when ,i stop at gas station back to limp mode, i was jus like you, ready to leave it, frustrated man, 2mrw morn im gonna check my anti freeze, the resboir is where it needs to be, maybe il flush system distilled water and dex kool, once again great material
Thanks bro. I hope it works out for you
Wow just had this exact problem i almost called Triple A and started dreading about spending lots of money I was actually in target and bought the antifreeze and problem solved wow!!!!!
Milton Williams glad to hear it worker out for you
Is this true
Haha yesssss my 2013 Malibu just did the same thing. I researched it and found your video. Sure enough, antifreeze was low. Thanks dude!
no problem man
Tim, which engine do you have in your Malibu?
I had the same problem with my 2002 Trailblazer about one year ago. When I was driving on a highway, reduced engine power light came on and it reduced speed to 15 or 20 mph. I pulled over and checked all connectors around throttle body and everything was fine. I was about to call for help when I just disconnected the battery waited for about 10 minutes, connected it back and then everything was fine, I did not do anything else. Like I said, that happened about a year ago and I have not had the problem again. I hope my experience helps somebody.
Ricardo Macias yea I tried that numerous of times. It worked for a min then goes right back. Everyone experiences seems to be different. I’m just glad I can help ppl
What an idea, what a fix! Thanks for the tip, have been struggling with reduced engine power crap on a 2010 Equinox 4 cylinder for more than six months with no success. I hate wasting money to shoot the “parts cannon” at these problems that can turn out to have a simple fix. Thanks to your father for being wise enough to suggest the cure!
Anonymous98 did antifreeze Fix yours? I have the exact car as yours with exact same problem as yours.
King Markey McFly
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Right after commenting on this great tip, I had to replace my alternator because the bearings rusted up while the car has been sitting up these many months. However, I viewed a video by Scotty Kilmer yesterday at this link: th-cam.com/video/qYX4kRaOvTM/w-d-xo.html, where he explains what goes wrong chemically with old antifreeze and how old antifreeze can affect the readings of any sensor exposed to bad antifreeze. After 5 years, or so, depending on what your owners manual says, you need to replace your antifreeze with one that the manufacturer recommends. The color of the antifreeze varies depending on its chemical makeup, and you want to use the right kind. This is pretty much what this gentleman found based on his father’s great advice. To answer your question directly, I haven’t changed my antifreeze yet, but it is on the “to do” list before I crank it again. Some TH-camrs suggest draining the old antifreeze from the radiator first, filling the radiator with clear water, putting the cap on, running it for a few minutes, then cut off the engine, wait a few minutes, then drain it. He says the first few flushes will be dirty, as the buildup of gunk gets flushed out. When the drain water is clear, you can add the new antifreeze according to instructions. Each cycle with fresh water, run the engine for only a short time, and do not let the engine overheat. I have also added 5 gallons of gas to my practically empty tank, which is another tip I found. If the vapor pressure in the closed gas tank is too low, you also get the warning lights.
I did exactly what you said my 09 Malibu no longer has this problem I was a little skeptical about such an easy fix but you sir along with your dad know exactly what you're talking about
Did your car alresdy have antifreeze in it and you added more or it didn’t have any at all?
Same thing happened to me on Friday as I was going through a tunnel. I couldn’t get past 40 mph unless I took my foot off the gas for a second. I was worried it was going to cause a lot of money but decided to TH-cam it before I took it to the dealership or buy parts. So I brought the GM antifreeze and it ran like a champ. I have a 2015 impala. Thank you for the video bro.
I got engine reduced message , added ANTIFREEZE ,worried for a night. the next morning engine reduced message was gone and car back to normal
People you must watch this video before you try fixing your car. Definitely checked all the fluids in my car first. Changed the oil and added water and the problem was solved. Thank you!
I’m having the same engine reduced power and putting it’s not accelerating but it’s not shutting off I’ve replaced valve solenoids, crankshaft sensor and ignition switch but it’s still the same problem I’m thinking it’s relays
I have a 2012 Chevy malibu
My 2012 is doing all of this, and i have a full reservoir! I'm beyond frustrated atp.
Wow. I’m really sorry i couldn’t help bro
Bro wanted to say thank you 😊. I just did my uncles car they were praising Jesus all day. Thank you from hawaii
No need to feel dumb. It's 2018 and for years cars have had a low coolant sensor and a light that tells you it's low. I feel like this is a ploy by General Motors to get people to take the car to the dealer so you can pay them $100 plus just to put coolant in the car. That's bad business. I just bought a 2010 on Saturday for waaaay too much money (bad credit=buy here pay here=gonna get screwed) but I hope I don't have these problems, but if it does I'll know to check the coolant. Thanks man.
I hVe a 2020 Lt Chevy Malibu and my car just started the same problem i will try this out .
Let me know if it works
Yo I needed that Laugh But I know what you mean I had a Issue just like yours and here it was something so simple
Thanks for the tip! This worked on my 2011 Impala with the 3.5l V6. Check engine light was on, code P2122. It already has a new throttle body so was sure it wasn't that. Showed my son your video he is a budding mechanic, said yup makes sense actually because the car doesn't want to overheat so it's throwing a reduced power and throttle body code.
Thanks LUV, and old guy told me that when u have a car problem to start with simple stuff!
Skip to the 4 minute mark
Coolant tho? Your video was the second one I saw. Good sh*t bro
Got this problem on a Hybrid. Good vid subject. Topped off the freeze and will check.
Dude Just wanna day thanks you just saved me a grip!!!
Your video saved me alot of money last night!. I had the same problem. My Malibu just started trippin for no reason. I was just sitting in park and when I went to pull off the gas was working but the car was barely moving. It said service esc and traction control. The engine light was on any everything. Went to TH-cam to find answers and ur video was the first to pop up. Once I made it home I noticed the antifreeze was a lil low. Once I added more the car was back to normal. I wanted to make sure I gave you ur props!💯.
Smooth Daddy when u added the antifreeze , did the check engine light go off?
Thanks for rhe video!
Just wondering if anyone actually tried to find the root cause as to why the computer thru the pwr code in the first place. I don't see why antifreeze level would have anything directly to do with it
Don’t feel bad my solution was worse than yours. My car was slow to accelerate, I had to push all the way down on the gas just to go 20-35mph.
Go to Midas he tells me what I’m describing doesn’t make sense based on the fact no lights were on. Connects scanner, drives my car around and tells me it was my winter mat’s lodged partially underneath the accelerator 🥴🤦🏾♀️
I was so embarrassed I just wasted that man’s time, he was super nice about it tho. We got a good laugh. 😂
WOW...This was sooooo easy and quick. It took no time for me to change and I am a FEMALE. Thanks guys!!!
Yea fix didnt work idk what's wrong with mines it just started sputtering today, I have a 2011 chevy malibu. Smh cars are pieces of shit. Not even two weeks ago I had to rewire my headlight because it kept going in and out, the connector was completely fried. Then today my car started the reduced power, service ESC and traction control and what do you know! Was letting up my windows and the damn panel where all the buttons for the windows are, literally fried and started smoking, so now the front passenger window wont let down unless you let the back passenger window down then it will come down as well but then sometimes it wont work at all.
hakeem hamilton wow. Sorry that happened to you. Hope it works out for you.
Been dealing with this for a while, I can't believe this!!! Just fixed it, you are amazing!!!
I'm about to try this on my old lady's car ,having the same issues
Did it work for you?
@@Xenythx it worked. Problem solved
Modern cars with fail safe methods to keep you from damaging the engine and over heating the car. The dealer knows these tricks of the trade. Good looking on the information. Just makes me step my game up on fixing these modern cars.
assalaamu alaikum no problem
Thank you God for this, I am going to try it, I hope this works, I am going to try it now.
Shit at least you got all them new parts. But I always check all my fluids weekly
Just watched a video Chevy Malibu is the most recalled car ever I glad I found this out 5 years later
I've had 3 in a row and no problems until this issue now.
Man... I watched this video the same day my car was scheduled to be picked up by a junker. Was told by my mechanic of 35 years that my engine and transmission were bad. I figured it was worth a try, so I stopped at autozone and got some coolant. Bam, just like that, no more issues. Can't thank you enough for this video dude.
Engine power reduced / ESC (traction control). I found that the Camshaft position sensor causes this error. Next time you get the ESC?Engine reduced try disconnecting the Camshaft sensor (its by oil dip stick on the 2.4l). Replace it when you can and this should fix that issue.
can you drive it while it’s disconnected
@@nikaboo10204eva yes!, that engine has 2 cam sensors. One in front and one in back. It can run without both, but the back sensor does affect the operation of the car (it hesitates to start).
@@cmichael442 so the engine light will stay on until I replace the sensor
@@erinmcdermott3028 yes
@@erinmcdermott3028 Make sure you buy OEM, Original parts. Not that Autozone or similar parts place. I did and my car just did not like the parts. Warning: The back sensor is sensitive, it can cause major issues if replaced with some 3rd party parts. Mine would randomly turn of and not restart until i cleared the check engine error light. Only to have the car turn of randomly again.
What if i already got the antifreeze in n the car
I went through this recently with an 08 Malibu hybrid. Took it into garage. Turns out that clogged catalytic converter was causing the issue. It had 2. Both replaced. Zero issues with that since. Just wanted to share my experience.
How much did that run you
Thank you very much man you saved my life I was about to take it to the mechanic I was expecting to pay at least 300 dollars but I put a little antifreeze that I had and the car is running like new again !! Thank you again
Did you already have antifreeze in it or just added more
Lol best yall can do here is get rid of that trash chevy cars lol in 2015 i bought a 2010 chevy cobalt lt n had it for 4 years n it always had that engine power reduced shit, countless diagnoses n trying to fix it, no one ever could. Its just a gm electrical programing problem that they themselves cant fix.. in 2020 i got a 2018 elantra sport with 20k miles npw with 70k miles, 0 problems n absolutely amazing ride. Js get a different car i know times are rough but dont buy american cars they suck, go with toyota, Honda, mazda n hyundai n kia ( non base models cause they stealing them😂) n you'll be good
Lol your good, it happens !! Thank you for this I'm going right now to see if that helps mine ! God bless !
For those on here that only had to put antifreeze to fix this issue your luck I done it several time it didn't change a thing I feel like abandoning this car in the woods car runs so bad i would rather walk
Delano martin it worked for me and still is. Yours just may have issues other then that. Try to fix a few other parts first
worked for me🙋
Delano martin 1
Check the intake manifold assembly at the back side of the engine (between the engine and the firewall), it might be loose and letting unmetered air in.
Here I am with a fucking 2017 Mali lt... light is on AGAIN..this is the 11th time!! Will let you know if your tip works... hopefully cuz literally I'm that chic that can't change a tire but I can do this. FML... it was -37c this time..double dangerous
It worked for me on a 2016 Malibu your awsome
Having a problem with my 2011 chevy Malibu. Code keeps coming up saying the throttle position sensor is bad. & every now and then it will start shaking real bad and the engine light comes on then it stops for a while. Did this ever happen to you? Going to check & see if it need antifreeze like you did before I spend the money on a new throttle body sensor. Thanks!
Excuse your language? Are you kidding? You got a Chevy Malibu. My 84 year old mother- in - law developed the same language havin a 2013 piece of Chevy shit! Malibu’s suck.
My Chevy Malibu wont start i think its cause of reduce engine power imma check the antifreeze bro 💯 i swear u must be a malibu 😇 or something 😂 cause all the comments u saying u saved them and i agree because i was on the verge of buying (spark plug pedal sensor, already cleaned own throttle body ,and already habe the mass airflow sensor ) maybe i need a new battery instead of trying to start it with a used battery from junkyard..plusbit kept reading gas/air not enough air or something (water pump,air filter, one bul tryna tell me i need a whole new ecm
I have an 08 Malibu and it would turn off occasionally like I would feel it losing power, cut it off then start the engine again and it’ll be fine. It did this maybe 10 times over 4 years. Then one day it lost power I turned it off and on , got to the next stop sign and it powered down and it’s been sitting out front for a year almost any suggestions anyone.?
I have the same car and year! If I go out here and put some antifreeze in this car and it work. I’m gonna scream and I haven’t drive my car in two months because it said engine power reduced…🤦🏾♀️🤦🏾♀️🤦🏾♀️
LOL!!!! dame anti freeze
I having these same exact issues with my 2017 Chevy Malibu. I was about to take it to mechanic n miss work today to leave my car there. I’m going to Walmart to try this before i do anything else. I’m praying this works for me. Thank you for this video.
Did it ?
Man thank you so fucking much omg I was panicking you help me big time
Yo. If this shit works...I’m literally stuck and my only way home is to get this piece of shit moving...
Thanks brotha, I have to try this on my daughters car. Man, after all that work and money you spent, I hope you got to treat yourself somehow. Thanks again
BRO ! YOUR A LIFE SAVER ! My wife and I just left her 2009 Saturn aura in a parking lot because of the same problem her car !
Acabo de arreglar el problema, es la bomba de combustible. Si sienten que el carro se jalonea de repente o que a veces le cuesta hacer los cambios, es por esto. Los errores que les aparecen son engine power reduced, serv traction, esc off.
Same problem antifreeze fixed it
Do the 07 Malibu maxx do this??? Just checking for a friend. Thanks 👍
Glad I found d your video man!! Exact same shit is going down with my 08 impala ls...I put some antifreeze in a few days ago and so far its fine..I was getting ready to do the same on buying basically everything you did then I came across your video. I know it sucks you spent all that cash but by you posting this video its helping people out a lot and I appreciate you for sharing. Don't feel dumb cause hell with all the videos of what could be wrong what else could we do lol...my next car I get will not be a Chevy that's for sure. 😎👍
BANANAHAMMER420 hey man glad I could help. My car still running fine till this day. But I won’t ever buy a Malibu again. Lol. I’m going for the hell cat charger next lol🤷🏾♂️.
whats codes was coming up on yours ?
Bro you just saved my fucking life!!! Service esc came on in my 08 Malibu 20 mins ago, watched ur video and added a bottle of water, problem solved
Dewayne Adams 💯💯💯💪🏾
Thank you for this tip to check the fluids. Mine ended up being low on oil.
Just happened to me after a snow storm & it fixed it immediately
WOW..BRO..I FEEL YOU MAN. I HAD TO DO ALMOST WT YOU WENT THROUGH ,AND ON THE EDGE BURN THE F@%# CAR AND HOPEFULLY THAT WOULD SOLVE THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT THAT NVR WENT AWAY, AND " MY DAUGHTER HAD MENTIONED THAT SHE WAS IN A HURY AFTER SHE HAD PUMPED GAS A FEW DAYS AGO,,AND "POP THAT WAS THE PROBLEM,,THAT SHE DIDN'T SEAL OR TIGHTEN THE GASS CAP...DAYUUM WAS A MAD !!
thank you I did this and reset my computer and its fixed.
This works for real you guys! I have 2012 Malibu it starting doing this last night . Boy am I glad I found this video a SIMPLE $14 fix. Thank you for making this video cause all the other videos kept saying throttle body
Glad it worked for you
man I feel just as stupid en from watching your video bro. because I literally bought just about everything you did, and still had the same problems but just noticed today the car was low on antifreeze. I really hope this works and thanks for posting this video with some really helpful news.
Jovanny Rodríguez no problem. I hope it worked for you
Tell your dad thanks 😊 you guys just saved my pockets. The lights popped up while on the hwy I pulled over sat at a mechanics shop then found your video. Lol I drove right off!
Nedran Mills I’m glad it worked out for you
The car be like my girl all theses problems and spending money on her Al I need to do was fill her up and give her a baby
Hey I'm a seasoned mechanic and never came to that conclusion. I gotta try that. Tks for your story.
You da 🐐. Blessings
Brandon Jones thanks man did it work for you?
I’m going to buy some antifreeze tomorrow! I’ll tell you later if that’s the problem. Thank you so much!
Did it fix it?
Mines was the throttle bottle needed to be changed. So I order the part off amazon and replaced it took all but 10 minuets to get the part off and the new one on. And that was about 6 months ago haven’t had the car ( reduce engine speeds, service ESC etc)
What year is yours? How’s it doing now?
@AllForOne mines is a 2008 its been running fine every since haven't had any more problems out of it
Good video dude! Like some others pointed out these systems fail and make your car run horrible to 'protect' your car but don't seem to isolate the problem in the error codes very well. Actually pretty shitty (by design?). Seems like Chevy could design a better error code system to isolate the problem rather than giving you all these codes at once, and then having to figure out which one it is. PS: bro check and see if you got a leak in the coolant reservoir. Mine did and that's how the car got low on antifreeze and never registered hot on gauges...
I am handicap at hospital every other day. I pray this helps my same issue. Thank you for sharing.
Lol not laughing at you but damn my dude I would have never thought it would have been anti freeze. But did the temp register hot?
Jay Money nah never said nothing about overheating or anything. Never went past the normal line smh
Mine was fixed more than a month ago. It was a Thermostat. And the lower radiator hose burst a couple of time especially in traffic. I drive an Opel Astra. 2011. eversince its been changed, no Engine power reduced problems.
It worked for me but anyone know why this helps it?
Mine doing the same exact thing it's very frustrated
DIDNT WORK FOR ME LOL SHI GETTING ME PISS OFF
You are a god among men sir! Thanks for the info
Jena Wells no problem sir
Crazy hope this works ima go get some tomorrow thank u g💯
My car doing the exact same thing so I'ma get me some anit freeze
Wow thish was so helpful!!!! Same scenario but didn't spend all the money on fixing other stuff. Had some coolant in the trunck when this started happening. Amazing made the car run 60 percent better. Thank again.
This problem started for me about a week or so ago, I hope this can be the fix, got to check it out.. That reduced engine thing is scary, especially on the freeway, always makes me grateful I work 2nd shift, and usually not as many ppl on the road going home lol
ShiftaelV2 hey did it work for you???
My car is not running bad but my engine power is reduced light came on yesterday. I got a 2013
Lashay Randall sorry to hear that
So was y’all car low with antifreeze or did it have any
God bless you and your father big time