Q: Reduce Engine Power Light is illuminated

asked by on November 10, 2016

The reduce engine light comes on at random sometimes it goes weeks before coming on again some days it's 8-10 times a day

My car has 325000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Warning Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

This light comes on generally when there is a critical system failure or problem with the engine or transmission. The purpose of this light is to keep the driver safe and to prevent potential major damage to the engine or transmission. This will require downloading the trouble codes from the vehicle’s computer to determine what is causing this. To avoid any unnecessary repairs, I would recommend having a professional from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose the warning light firsthand and help you make the right repair.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I know if the brakes need to be replaced?
Your car has self-adjusting, four-wheel disc brakes. That offers better stopping power, but you need to know the signs that the pads are beginning to wear out. While some squeaking is normal with all disc brakes, yours are equipped with...
Can you please tell me where the auto trans output speed sensor is located. Some people tell me it is under the batter?
You will need to drop the transmission pan and it's located above the valve body. If you need some assistance with its replacement, consider YourMechanic, as a certified technician can help diagnose any issues with your sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/electrical-components-are-not-working-inspection) and help...
Car starting hard
The most common faults that cause your hard start can be a EVAP Purge Solenoid that is on the intake manifold. It's relatively easy to replace and only around $25. Or, it can be a fuel pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-pump-replacement) pressure issue...
i am having transmission issues
Hello. I am not quite sure if you are saying that you changed the transmission out and still do not get any gear change. If this is the case, then you should have someone verify the shift cable (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/shift-selector-cable-replacement) is...
Need to pass smog check
Hi, thanks for writing in. This is likely an issue related to the catalytic converter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-catalytic-converter) which may be the converter itself or the O2 sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-oxygen-sensor) which is a sensor that monitors the productivity of the converter as it...
RPMs fall when using higher octane fuel, 2005 Hyundai Elantra
As you may know, the compression ratio of your engine determines the octane rating of the gas you must use in the car. Higher octane fuel prevents the air-fuel mixture from igniting before the spark plug does it. Firing the...
Jeep stopped acclerating, brakes locked up, power steering fluid everywhere 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Hi - first task is to check for problem codes (Check Engine light) - these will be helpful. From your symptoms, and the sequence, I believe the engine lost oil (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/oil-loss-by-ryan) suddenly (failed oil cooler line or front crank seal?),...
Oil Change and Smog Test
Hello! Your oil change appointment should not impact your car's ability to pass a smog test immediately after having the oil changed as the oil change has nothing to do with your car's emissions system or functionality.
excessive fuel consumption?
EPA ratings for this vehicle are stated in units of miles and gallons. The city driving rating for the vehicle is 22 MPG (miles per gallon). The highway driving rating is 32 MPG. Your experience is reported as 15 MPG...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Air Charge Temperature Sensor
Common signs include a lack of power when accelerating, trouble when starting in cold weather, and a decrease in fuel efficiency.
How to Check for Faulty Dashboard Lights
Dashboard lights (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-are-the-different-codes-that-can-light-up-on-my-dashboard) are very important indicators on your vehicle’s instrument panel that are connected to certain monitors and gauges throughout various parts of the vehicle, such as the engine and the exhaust/emissions system. A dashboard light is triggered when...
How to Buy a Classic Chevy
For experienced car collectors and rookies alike, owning a classic Chevy is a rite of passage. There are multiple decades and styles in which Chevrolet made popular cars. Many of these cars then had a devout following in the years...