Have you ever felt like your car isn’t going as fast as it should be? Lagging acceleration is a common engine issue, especially in cars with higher mileage. If it goes unchecked, it can be dangerous to drive on a busy road or interstate or go uphill, but it can be fixed. We can help you identify the source of your engine problems. Here are some potential causes of your lagging acceleration and how you can fix them.
Ignition Issues
Lagging acceleration can indicate issues with your ignition system. An easy way to diagnose ignition problems is by listening to the noise your car makes when you start it. Is it making a clicking noise? If so, then check out these parts first:
Bad Spark Plugs:
Combustion can’t happen without a spark. That is why your engine has spark plugs. When they wear out, it decreases your engine’s efficiency. If your car has lagging acceleration, try replacing the spark plugs.
Wires:
Along with checking the spark plugs, you should also check the spark wires. They could be damaged from vibrations, heat, and mechanical wear and tear. Look for signs of melting, cracking, or any other damage and replace if needed.
Ignition Coils:
If your spark plugs and wires are still good, check your ignition coils. You can check an ignition coil by removing it and testing it with a multimeter. If the ignition coil has gone bad, then replace it.
Sensor Failure
Modern engines aren’t just made of a bunch of mechanical gears, they are also built with a computer system. Your car relies on multiple sensors around the engine to run smoothly. If any of them start to fail, it can cause all sorts of problems like engine failure, bad mileage, and especially lagging acceleration. If your car hasn’t been going as fast as it used to, check one of these sensors.
O2 Sensor:
Monitors how much unburnt oxygen is in your exhaust.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Measures the amount of air going into the engine.
Bad Throttle Position Sensor:
Monitors and relays your throttle valve position to your engine’s main computer.
Each of these sensors works together to adjust your air-to-fuel ratio. When one of these sensors fails, that causes the ratio to be out of balance. That can cause a lagging sensation as your engine reduces in power. If your engine has issues with the sensor, you will want to take your car to a mechanic to have them fixed or replaced.
Problems with the Fuel System
Without fuel, your car can’t run right. One of the most common symptoms of fuel system issues is lagging acceleration. You can identify the fuel system as the root of these issues is by starting the engine. If there is a continuous cranking noise when you start your car, then you should check out these parts:
Clogged or Dirty Fuel Filter:
Your car’s fuel filter stops debris and dirt from entering your engine. When it is clogged, it will restrict the fuel from flowing where it needs to go. This hold up will make your engine less efficient and cause your car to lag. To check your fuel filter, hold the it up to the light. If you can’t see through it, then you need to clean or replace it.
Clogged or Dirty Fuel Injector:
The fuel injector sprays fuel into the combustion chamber. If it’s clogged or dirty, your engine can’t create the energy it needs to move, and it will become slower over time. Keep your fuel injector cleaned regularly to avoid this, but when it happens you can get them professionally cleaned or replaced.
Damaged Fuel Pump:
An engine runs on precision, and your fuel pump is no exception. Its job is to deliver the right amount of fuel with the right amount of pressure to keep it running. If it’s worn out or damaged, then your engine won’t receive the fuel it needs. This can cause it to hesitate, especially when it requires more energy, like up an incline. You’ll need to replace this part if it’s damaged.
Affordable and Reliable
Don’t let the cost of a new engine deter you from getting a new one. You can fix your lagging acceleration for less with our used engines. We offer the lowest prices backed with our reliable warranties so you can get your vehicle up and running again without the high cost or the hassle. Contact us to get a free quote on your used engine today.
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