You are heading towards your work and notice that the vehicle starts slowing down after some time. You put your foot on the gas pedal and still notice no acceleration in the car. This issue has started bothering you and you’re unable to understand what’s going on with your car. Let’s dive deeper into the reasons that made your car accelerate slowly and take steps to resolve these issues:
Reasons That a Car Isn’t Accelerating
Poorly Working Mass Air Flow Sensor
It is the responsibility of the MAF sensor to mix air is to fuel the mixture properly before sending it to the engine’s manifold. It’s responsible for calibrating the mass that’s getting inside the air intake a clogged or a bad sensor might send wrong data to the ECU. You might notice poor accelerations due to problematic MAF sensors. A mechanic inspection accompanied by a MAF sensor replacement would resolve the issues in no time.
Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensor
An Oxygen sensor follows a close loop system and gives information about the amount of gas you’re using and the emissions released by it. In case the emission gets too high or there is a drop in the “Oxygen Pulse” then it may cause issues even if you’ve fully pressed the gas pedal down.
Throttle Position Sensor Not Working Properly
The engine speed and opening angle of the car can be seen through the TPS(Throttle Position Sensor) of the car. In case of a malfunctioning one controlling the engine speed becomes a hassle and will surge or fall without pressing. Check your throttle position sensor and plan a throttle position sensor replacement to prevent the issues from popping-up again.
Clogged Fuel Filter
Sometimes the clogged fuel filter becomes a cause of concern for many. It stresses out the entire system and acceleration becomes impossible. Get into fuel filter replacement to prevent the concerns from bothering you.
Dirty Air Filters
A clogged air filter could affect the air getting inside the intake manifold. These concerns need to be addressed and prevent your car from accelerating. Clean these air filters and if you’re still experiencing concerns get in touch with a qualified technician.
Issues with the Timing Belt
At different points of time, the connection between the Crankshaft and Camshaft of the car is established using a timing belt. The timing belt works along with the car’s valves, pistons, and spark plugs to ensure that everything runs smoothly whenever there is combustion inside the cylinders. In case it slips or breaks due to any reason then it would be difficult for the engine to produce adequate power during acceleration.
Defective Pump
A defective fuel pump inhibits the car’s acceleration or impedes the gas pedal’s ability to send appropriate signals. It is the responsibility of the fuel pump to extract fuel from the gas tank via fuel lines.In case of a clogged or malfunctioning fuel pump, the fuel supply to the injectors halt thereby resulting in poor acceleration, sputtering, or stall-outs.
Faulty Fuel Injector
A car’s fuel injector is responsible for delivering an accurate amount of gas to the combustion chamber. If you own an old car the fuel injectors become clogged over time. Ensure that the tiny passages are free from any impediments as not doing so would minimize the engine’s performance and accelerating the engine becomes a trouble for you.
Should You Leave the Acceleration Issues Unattended?
Acceleration issues aren’t as bothersome as many people think. It is generally accompanied by an illuminating check engine light and mustn’t be taken lightly. In case you’ll leave the issues as it is they’ll turn worse. All you need to do is find a reliable car parts & accessories store like ‘The Auto Parts Shop’ and replace the problematic part with a new one.
The Bottom Line
Driving a car which isn’t accelerating properly could lead to bigger issues and must be fixed as quickly as possible.Consulting a qualified mechanic would be the best course of action and would save you from costly repairs later on.