So my 2001 Neon SE 2.0 is very unhappy. A couple of weeks ago driving on the freeway out of the blue the engine just instantly lost about 70% power at 65mph. And then back to normal within one minute. Yesterday same thing only now it seems the power loss is staying this time.

I'm not sure what to make of it:

Mil did not illuminate before during or after problem first time and has not came on for the second go round either.

No codes current or in history using mt2500 in Manufacturer specific.
O2S functioning normally within spec.
Plugs look good. Oil is clean.

If you rev the engine it bogs heavily and will not rev above about 3500 almost like a governor.

I have not checked verified correct operation of the MAF sensor which I am leaning towards.

I do believe I'm not dealing timing problem mechanically as the symptom went away almost instantly the first time. Although it does'nt rule out electronic timing controls.

I hope one of you out there has dealt with this issue and can help same me some diag. time I would like to be off foot patrol soon LOL!!!!

 

im leaning towards the maf sensor as well. i just replaced the one in my stepdads titan a few days ago and it was doing something similar but it did through a code. so im willing to bet thats your problem

 

also you might want to have a look at your fuel filter. i ran into this issue with my Cadillac and it turned out to be the fuel filter.