Why Is My Car Not Accelerating Properly?

Driving and getting around can be challenging if your car fails to pick up speed and accelerate. You may notice it lags and feels sluggish when you apply pressure on the gas pedal. This can be dangerous and frustrating while operating the vehicle. There are a few main causes of this type of mechanical issue.

1. Dirty Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF) or Oxygen Sensor

One of the main reasons cars don't accelerate easily is that the mass airflow or oxygen sensor can become clogged with dirt. This prevents the air-fuel mixture of the vehicle from being monitored consistently. You'll notice this begins to affect the fuel mileage and acceleration of the car, causing the vehicle to drive slower.

You can hire a professional to clean out the Mass Air Flow Sensor, but if the Oxygen Sensor is the issue, it needs to be replaced. Both of these parts will cause the Check Engine light to turn on and will affect the car's performance over time. You can also visit our car dealership to get a correct diagnosis of the issue.

2. Malfunctioning Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

The car's performance can also be affected if incorrect information is sent to the vehicle, which occurs when you cannot read the throttle position. This will need attention to ensure that the Throttle Position Sensor monitors the throttle valve opening angle to ensure the system knows how to adjust.

3. Clogged Fuel Filter

When too many impurities accumulate in the gas tank, it can make the car slow down and fail to accelerate. The fuel filter keeps sludge, dirt, and debris out but can become clogged over time. This prevents enough fuel from getting into the engine. Fortunately, replacing the filter will immediately correct the problem.

4. Dirty Air Filters

Many drivers forget to replace their dirty air filters at the right time, limiting how much air reaches the engine. This will make the engine slow down and can make it challenging to accelerate. You'll need to read your owner's manual to get an idea of how often the filter needs to be replaced throughout the year.

If your engine's air filter isn't replaced at recommended intervals, it can prevent the engine from getting enough airflow. This can affect its operation and prevent your vehicle from increasing speed quickly, which is why it's essential to change it regularly. Consult your owner's manual to determine how often the air filter should be replaced.

Feel free to reach out to our dealership if your car is failing to accelerate. We'll be happy to assist you and can help you schedule an appointment to diagnose the problem.