Noticeable acceleration problems and engine lag will not only reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy but also make driving the automobile difficult. Forgive us for stating the obvious, but it’s important to have the engine performance problems investigated right away so any necessary repairs can be performed to restore the engine’s functionality. J&S Auto Repair is going to list the common reasons why an engine sputters and lags below.
Catalytic Converter Problems
The catalytic converter treats the exhaust so it can be released out of the tailpipe. It can become clogged if you drive an older automobile. When this happens, the exhaust backs up into the combustion chamber and your engine performance will lag and sputter.
Clogged Filter
Clogged filters can also create this problem. Specifically, a clogged fuel filter will prevent enough fuel from making its way into the engine, and the engine will sputter. Clogged fuel injectors can create the same problem as can a clogged air filter.
Dying Fuel Pump
The fuel pump is responsible for pushing the fuel into the engine. If you drive an automobile that has over 100,000 miles on it, it’s possible that the fuel pump is dying. If this is the case, it may be unable to supply the engine with the necessary fuel.
Faulty MAF Sensor
The mass airflow sensor reports the levels of air that flows into the engine to the engine control module. If it is faulty and reports incorrect data, the module may overcorrect a problem that doesn’t exist. This can make your engine sputter.
Faulty O2 Sensor
The same is true with the faulty oxygen sensor and the reason why the engine sputters is that the engine control module may add too much air to the combustion chamber. This creates a lean fuel mixture that affects the engine’s performance.
Leaking Vacuum Hose
If you have a leaking vacuum hose in the engine, the engine will fill with air. Unfortunately, this air will make its way to the combustion chamber and create a lean fuel mixture. As we just mentioned, this fuel mixture type has too much air in it and affects the engine’s performance.
Worn Spark Plugs
Finally, your engine power may be lagging because the spark plugs are worn out and need to be replaced. Wear and tear can cause the spark plugs to misfire, and this will make your engine sputter.
J&S Auto Repair in Warwick, RI, can figure out why you have lagging engine power. Give us a call today to set up an appointment.
