My car has suddenly lost compression on hills...there is a strong gas odor and more recently I almost get to the top of a steep hill and the engine bogs down , but doesnt quit, however a blast of smoke comes out the exhaust..head gasket ?96 grand am

you mean power?does it over heat?is there a foamy coffe colored foam on engine moil filler cap?the gas smell could be a few diffrent problems.can you smell a anti-freeze oder from the exhaust after engine is warm?sounds like a head gasket!

yes I meant it loses power...I havent noticed any foam on the filler cap..I dont smell anti freeze but thats brings to mind another issue..i replace the heater core last year but since this head gasket problem, now the inside of the windsheild gets heavy condinsation, it even freezes when its cold enough..Im thinking the thermostat is out too..it doesnt overheat but it takes forever to warm up to use the heater..

ok thermostat is not out yet but is going out ans quick and your other problem is either a head gasket alone or you could have a exhaust leak along with it can you hear it sputter from under your passenger seat?

headgasket or mabe a throttle body gasket leak