Chrysler Mini-Van

2000 Chrysler Mini-Van All Part Groups Lagging When accelerating Always

I have a 2000 Chrysler Town & Country with 102,000 miles. The exhaust has started to sound throaty, has a hard time getting up hills, mileage has decreased from 18 to 15 mpg. The check engine light is not on....there are no other "funny" sounds. Any thoughts?

Even though the check engine light is not on,you may want to have the vehicle scaned for a possible MAP,TPS,MAF or O2 senor problem.Check with one of your local parts houses(AutoZnone,AutoNation etc.)Some of these offer the service for free or at a nominal price.The exhaust sound you describe could be emulated by the mass air pressure(MAP)build up in the exahust.A catylitic converter could also be at issue.Any or all of these can and will decrease perfomance and mileage.While you're at it,if you haven't done so already,at 102k miles, a good overall tune-up(oil change,plugs,injection cleaning,air filter,cooling system flush,trans service)would not hurt.I know it sounds like a lot of money but if you are a little mechanicaly inclined,you can perform alot these on your own.Keep in touch on any findings and I'll see if I can be of any help from this side of the screen.
Good Luck,
Paul