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1997 Dodge Stratus Base 4dr Sedan

1997 Dodge Stratus
Trim Info:
Front Wheel Drive, 4 Door Sedan Base, Mid-size
26 mpg city / 37 mpg hwy
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July 23, 2012, 4:01 pm

Nadia E
 

Question: Doesn't speed up fast enough and then downshifts

My car is taking longer than normal to speed up... I press the pedal all the way down and the car speeds up practically in slow motion. Then it slows down by itself. It also makes a loud noise as though the engine is working too hard when I'm pressing on the gas. The car won't stay in cruise, but slows down quickly.
Someone told me I might need to replace the catalytic converter. Is this right?


August 1, 2012, 4:04 pm

Ron W
Expert Mechanic

For all hard starting or engine performance issues, you should always start with the basics. Make sure the tune up items are done and check the charging and starting systems. The engine must have the basics done in order for it to be able to run correctly. Many things can cause this type of problem, and the simplest sometimes get overlooked.

Converter could cause this, but is not to likely. If you think it is plugged, have a muffler shop do a exhaust back pressure test (most do it for free or very cheap). That will tell you if the cat is plugged.


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