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I've got an '03 Civic with about 110000 miles.

About a month ago, it began having problems with the acceleration. At first, I noticed constant increased engine noise. It started becoming mildly lethargic when I'd try to accelerate. Then it would occasionally fail to accelerate. I would push the gas pedal down and nothing would happen. The engine would continue to idle like I wasn't giving it gas (despite the pedal being pushed to the floor). Then after about 5 seconds, it would very slowly begin to resume accelerating. This happened several times on the interstate, which was a bit terrifying.

At this point we brought it in to a mechanic. He suspected it was sludge built up in the engine and suggested I switch to a higher grade gas. I switched to premium for a few tanks, and things seemed to be improving.

However, today the acceleration problems resumed in full force. Once it almost left me stranded in a busy intersection. In addition, my power steering started going out intermittently.

I'm recently moved, and don't have a mechanic I trust yet. I'd love to get some opinions as to what it could be before I take it in. Any thoughts?  

which of the civics do you have???

Civic DX
Civic EX
Civic GX
Civic HX
Civic Hybrid
Civic LX
Civic SI

and the engine size and type... if possible


is the check engine light on????     newer cars have really complete diagnostic systems built in..    you can get the codes read at many places or do it your self with a code reader.. or better a scan tool...     some autoparts stores still offer to scan the codes for you...  autozone was one...    most shops charge 80 bucks.. or more...  but their scan tools cost over $5K   consumer  scan tools start at 80 bucks and run to 300 or so..    a 40 buck code reader will read the codes.. but not allow you to view the data stream..

with a code... you can pin point the problem...    with the computer and a scan tool.. if a code has set... you can review the data block that was stored when the code was set...  makes it really easy to see what the problem might be...


i don't work on a lot of hondas... so they are kinda out of my knowledge base.. i figured this was better than an unanswered post..  with more info... i can do some more research...


my thoughts are looking toward a gas pedal position sensor... or a sticking throttle body...

the throttle body controls the air into the motor.. ... post more info.. i will see what i can do..