FAQ page
Solving Automotive Performance Issues
Performance Issues
This topic covers a broad range of issues, including anything from a rough-running engine to a failed differential. For that reason, I’m just going to cover the basics of how to go about finding the source of a performance issue rather than pick apart every single system. I also write articles for specific check engine light codes that can be accessed through the ‘Codes’ page on this website. In addition to myself, there are also articles written by other automotive professionals to help you with the specific codes you might have. If available, those can be found by typing your code into the stay dirty search function on the site. We’re adding new articles all the time so check back often.
Select Your Issue
- Performance Issues
- Identify the Problem
- The Basics
- Pulling Codes
- Pulling Codes, Pre OBDII
- After You Get the Codes
- Performance Diagnosis, No Codes
- Power Braking Test or Stall Speed Test
- Diagnosing Engine Problems
- Power Balance Testing
- Check for Vacuum Leaks
- Voltage Leaks
- Notes on Honda Ignition Systems and Aftermarket Parts
- Aftermarket Parts
- Fuel Delivery Problems
- Fuel Pressure Regulators
- Hard Starting Problems
- Fuel Injector Issues
- The Fuel Filter
- Replacing Honda Fuel Pumps
- Mechanical Issues
- Engine Timing
- Ignition Timing
- Compression Testing
- Leak Down Testing
- Using a Vacuum Gauge to Check Engine Performance
- Using a Vacuum Gauge to Find Exhaust Restrictions
- Catalytic Converter Problems
- Exhaust Leaks
- Don’t Forget the Basics
5 thoughts on “Solving Automotive Performance Issues”
Gabe
March 31, 2021 at 5:29 am
Hi Eric. I have a 2011 Dodge Caliber Mainstreet. I have code p0301. It seems that my misfire is turning out to be a serious issue and I need some insight. I’m currently checking all the small things that I know of before replacing parts for cylinder 1. All spark plugs and coils are good. Fuel injector is not clogged, it is working properly and ohms match the manual. I looked at the intake valves through fuel injector port, they are clean. I do have carbon build up in the combustion chamber. Compression test performed on all cylinders shows high readings of 200 to 219 psi (Are high readings due to carbon build up?). Another thing I read is that sticky valves or bent valves could be an issue and I could check doing a paper test. The exhaust is making the paper pulsate rapidly and is being sucked into the pipe. Also I took the oil cap off while the engine was running and there is a loud chopper like sound with a lot of air being forced out of the oil port. I couldn’t find anything that explained what that means. I did find articles talking about blowby gasses but all said I should see white smoke. There is no white smoke coming out. Is my issue still classified as blowby gasses or do I have a different issue?
Jessica Gregory
November 20, 2020 at 3:59 pm
Dear Eric the car guy, I have a 2004 Toyota camry 4 cylinder so my spark plug blew out of my engine it was replaced 4 months prior to these. Should I try to fix it or do you think I should get a new engine? If thats the case ill sell it can’t afford a new engine.
Jared
October 18, 2020 at 11:51 am
Hello @EricTheCarGuy,I am Jared from Kenya,I changed the Engine for my Subaru Lagacy,from then I got a real big problem…whenever I step on the gas,the car strain and just goes off,but as I disconnect the MAP sensor it pick to it’s maximum power.What might be the problem?.
Kelvin Exum
June 10, 2020 at 10:14 am
I have a 98 Lexus gs400. On the most part, my car runs quiet and smooth. Other times, it will have a bad idle. So bad at times that the check light will flash but later stay steady. I have gotten it checked to find out it is misfiring on one side of the engine.
Jim srack
July 16, 2020 at 5:22 pm
Hello Eric, your the Man. Ok here’s the situation Honda Element 2003 replaced Vetec solenoid, screen was clean in old part. Thought it was resolved, however the surge came back even at a lesser rpm before the surge than previously. What I don’t get is if the screen is clean whats causing the surging. Thank you in advance for your response