I purchased a 2003 Protege5 from a dealer up in Portland about 3 months ago. The car has been great up until about 2 weeks ago when the cars acceleration dropped off considerably. One day it was fine and the next day it wasn't. The problem is that the acceleration is really slow up until I hit around 3500 RPM and the power band kicks in. I notice a clicking noise coming from the left side of the engine compartment right before the power kicks in. Once past 3500 RPM the power is back. Oh yeah and the check engine light is not on. Does anyone have any idea what is going on with my car because I would like to fix it myself if it is something minor. It does have an aftermarket K&N air filter, but everything else is stock.

Thanks
Nick

 

Clicking sound? It sounds like an electrical problem. I would check the spark plugs, battery, and alternator. I've had a similar problem and it turned out that my spark plug boots were arcing (leaking electricity). It was a cheap and easy fix. Good luck.