I’m experiencing power loss between 4K RPM and 5K RPM (when VTEC kicks in) it’s not a super significant loss of power, however it is quite noticeable as it pulls hard up to 4K, then becomes very sluggish until VTEC kicks in. It has always pulled hard to the redline before. Does anybody have any idea what could be causing this? (No CEL coming on)

 

checked all the obvious? Engine needs three things to run: air, fuel and a spark.

• air filter
• fuel pressure
• spark plugs

 

Check your oil level.

 

Yeah the oil is a bit low, I’m gonna pick some up today and hopefully that’s the reason why. Thanks

 

Okay I added almost a quart of oil (it wasn’t too low) and checked the air filter, I knocked some stuff out of it until I can get a new one and it was running a lot stronger after, so I’m assuming I just need a new filter. Thanks again

 

The change had nothing to do with the air filter; your problem was a low oil level which prevented the VTEC from operating.

 

I meant I had done both, and vtec was working the power was just very muted after 4k rpm. I added the oil last night and knocked some stuff out of the intake filter, and it seemed to run stronger. But as of today there’s still power loss

 

If anyone else has any clues as to what could be causing this, it would be greatly appreciated if you could comment. I want to explore all possibilities before spending money. Thanks

 

You can try taking the entire intake manifold off and cleaning out the air passages. Really helped my 2000 Tl’s performance after doing that, and really smoothed out the idle. Check to see if they’re dirty as all you need is a can of carb cleaner and intake gaskets.

 

He's referring to the EGR system in our intake manifold. if your loss of power is accompanied by poor idle; this may be it. There are quite a few threads on it here in short: one big passage from the intake manifold that loops back into several small passages = eventual buildup for cars that drive shorter distances, Carb cleaner is better brake cleaner (walmart sells it unbelievably cheap), a toothbrush and bottle brush will aid greatly, and clean all mating surfaces/gaskets gently to prevent air leaks. don't forget to reconnect a small vacuum hose in the back that's often overlooked.