What does it mean when the engine reports a fault indicating reduced power?

[VanRowan]

When the engine reports a fault indicating reduced power, it means there is an internal issue with the engine. The possible causes are: 1. Aging or loosening of engine mounts; 2. Engine misfire; 3. Excessive carbon buildup in cylinders, throttle body, spark plugs, or intake system; 4. Fuel system malfunction leading to lean air-fuel mixture and engine vibration; 5. Intake system failure. The solutions for this issue include: 1. Replacing brake pads and discs; 2. Removing engine carbon deposits; 3. Improving fuel quality; 4. Replacing spark plugs; 5. Addressing insufficient cylinder pressure. The function of an engine is to convert the thermal energy of gasoline into mechanical energy by burning it in sealed cylinders, causing gas expansion that pushes pistons to perform work.

[JustinFitz]

When the 'Engine Power Reduced' warning appears on my car, it means the engine control system has detected a potential issue and proactively limited engine output to prevent more severe damage. Common causes include turbocharger failure, aged spark plugs, malfunctioning sensors like the throttle position sensor, or insufficient fuel supply. Once when I was driving a turbocharged car and encountered this warning, the acceleration felt weak, as if half the horsepower was cut off. After inspection, it turned out to be a leak in the turbo piping, which was fixed and restored performance. Don't continue driving at high speeds as it poses significant risks; it's advisable to park the car safely and check if any other warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard. If possible, use an OBD scanner to read the fault codes for an accurate diagnosis. Ignoring such warnings may lead to engine overheating or more expensive repairs, so timely action is crucial.

[MacGriffin]

I often tinker with my car myself. When I encounter a power reduction warning, I first check basic items to ensure safety. I check if the oil dipstick shows the oil level is too low, which could cause insufficient oil pressure, and then listen for any abnormal ticking or hissing sounds from the engine—that might indicate issues with the spark plugs or vacuum lines. Next, I try restarting the engine to see if the warning temporarily disappears. But if the warning persists, it’s likely due to a faulty sensor like the O2 oxygen sensor or a clogged turbo system. Developing a habit of regularly changing the air filter can help prevent some related issues. Remember not to drive blindly—it’s best to reduce speed and head to the nearest repair shop for professional diagnostics.

[NoahLee]

This warning indicates the engine power has been limited to prevent damage. The system automatically intervenes to protect components when sensing risks, commonly occurring during engine overheating, fuel pump failure, or ignition coil issues. When encountering this on the road, I immediately reduced speed - safe parking is crucial.