This tool provides general guidance — not professional mechanical advice. Always have a qualified mechanic inspect your vehicle before making any repair decisions.
#1 Most Likely
Loss of power while driving
Typical Cost
$100 – $2,500
Air filter replacement is typically $20–$50. Mass airflow sensor replacement typically costs $263–$408. Catalytic converter replacement typically costs $900–$2,500 per industry repair data (2024). Urgency reflects worst-case cause (sudden power loss at speed). Prices vary by vehicle make and region.
Wide range because the exact repair depends on what's causing the symptom.
- Clogged catalytic converter creating exhaust restriction
- Failing fuel pump not maintaining adequate fuel pressure
- Dirty or failing mass airflow sensor with incorrect readings
- Multiple misfiring cylinders from worn plugs or coils
- Air intake restriction from clogged air filter
A noticeable loss of engine power while driving may indicate a clogged catalytic converter, a failing fuel pump, a dirty mass airflow sensor, or a misfiring cylinder. In the worst case, a sudden and severe power loss at highway speed during overtaking creates an immediate safety hazard.
What a mechanic will check
A mechanic will likely test exhaust backpressure to check for a clogged catalytic converter, measure fuel pressure, scan for fault codes, and inspect the mass airflow sensor. They may perform a full power balance test to identify misfiring cylinders.
What to say to your mechanic
“My car has noticeably less power than it used to — it feels sluggish and struggles to accelerate. Can you test my catalytic converter backpressure, fuel pressure, and scan for fault codes to tell me what may be causing the power loss? I want to understand the scope of the issue before we talk about repairs.”
Script based on industry repair procedures