Ford Fiesta losing power up hill

[nathantasker]

My S Reg Ford Fiesta has started to lose power/speed when going up hills. This is causing me to change gear. A few weeks ago, it used to have plenty of power and I could go up hills on in the 70's. I now find the top speed going up the same hill can be as little as 50mph!

There is no more engine noise or other problems, and it has just had a service.

[maxximus]

check your catalytic convertor.

[maxdragon]

Check if it overheats when it loses power... if so.. you're losing enigine pressure at the top end, so your cylinder head gasket is leaking. After a run, check the oil filler cap... if there's creamy emulsion.. its def. the cyl. head gasket. Alternatively.. white smoke from exhaust (smells like candy floss if you've plenty of anti freeze in).

Those engines are quite robust, so a leaky gasket doesn't bother them until it starts to leak lots... worth doing sooner than later.

[spinchimp]

Clutch going?