No Oomph In 3Rd Gear.

[sandyRoe]

I know little about cars, nor do I know what the technical word for 'oomph' is.
My friend bought a used car and when she puts it into 3rd there seems to be no acceleration. Her son-in-law suggested it might be a problem with the clutch. Any thoughts?
She'll be taking it to a garage next week.

[jennyjoan]

That's not good Sandy - I was always taught never to drive in first or second gear and to try and get into 3rd asap so definitely should have acceleration.

[Stickybottle]

In my experience I would say give it some extra beans in second before shifting to third
Some cars are like that

[johnk]

Is she going into 5th instead of 3rd?

[Hopkirk]

Good suggestion, John.

[davebro]

A faulty air mass flow meter is often a cause of reduced power with no other symptoms. About £50 to replace.

[goodgoalie]

I think the suggestion by johnk is a really good one, especially as it's an unfamiliar car and easily done.

[tonyav]

Strange if it turns out to be the clutch, in my experience it would be the same in all gears if the clutch is slipping.