Your car is supposed to accelerate when you engage the gas pedal with extra force. Weak acceleration can be a safety hazard on highways and other roads with heavy traffic. Here are four common causes of improper acceleration.
Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF) or Oxygen Sensor
A vehicle's fuel injection system relies heavily on sophisticated electronic sensors for proper operation. A mass airflow (MAF) sensor is supposed to measure the total air entering an internal combustion engine block in real-time. If the MAF sensor malfunctions, the engine might take excessive air into the combustion chambers. Consequently, the engine might stall, knock, jerk or hesitate during the initial phases of combustion. Similarly, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor may severely hinder the performance of a gasoline engine. This component gauges the amount of oxygen that's readily available for combustion under the hood. An engine can only operate properly when the correct fuel/oxygen ratio is achieved at specific intervals. A certified automotive technician can easily replace MAF and oxygen sensors that don't work correctly.
Throttle Position Sensor
This automotive component regulates the amount of fuel that enters a vehicle's engine block. The Throttle Position Sensor is responsible for maintaining the correct ratio of fuel and air at any given point during combustion. If the ratio is compromised, the engine will not generate enough horsepower as designed. A malfunctioning TPS can lead to severe damage to an engine block that continues to misfire during various combustion cycles. The cylinder heads and crankshafts will quickly deteriorate from heavy friction and other improper cyclical motion.
Fuel Filter
The fuel system of an automobile is supposed to trap various particles that would compromise combustion in an engine block. Dirt gradually builds up on the filter that's supposed to keep the fuel tank relatively clean. A clogged fuel filter may lead to strong odors when you turn on the vehicle. You may notice a distinct smell of fumes from the burning of certain debris in the fuel system of your car. A fuel filter should be replaced at regular intervals as suggested by a car's manufacturer.
Engine Air Filter
Any automotive engine is engineered to draw air from the surroundings. Having a large surface area, a special filter traps airborne dirt and debris flowing into the powertrain. If the air filter gets clogged, the engine will not receive sufficient air for proper combustion. A clog will reduce a vehicle's horsepower and other capabilities, including acceleration.
Is your car not accelerating correctly? Come to our automotive repair shop. We will check and replace the appropriate auto parts on your vehicle.
