10 Common reasons your car is not accelerating properly

Besides having car insurance, taking proper care of your vehicle is also very important. One of the common problems experienced by car owners is issues with vehicle acceleration. Many factors can lead to the development of this issue, and you can learn about the common causes in this article.

Factors affecting your car’s acceleration

Here are 10 factors affecting your car's acceleration:

1. Malfunctioning clutch

A malfunctioning clutch can restrict it from properly engaging with the engine and may result in acceleration problems. A sliding clutch is often the reason behind the reduced acceleration of the vehicle.

2. Blocked air filter

Your car's engine needs air for the combustion process, and a dirty or blocked air filter can negatively affect its supply. It can lead to acceleration problems and reduced engine performance.

3. Problems with the fuel system

If your car's fuel system is improperly functioning, it can affect its performance. For example, a clogged fuel filter or injector can result in poor fuel delivery and negatively impact your car’s acceleration. It can also cause serious engine problems and may even result in a breakdown, so having comprehensive car insurance with roadside assistance comes in handy.

4. Problems with the catalytic converter

Some common signs of a malfunctioning catalytic converter are reduced acceleration, lower engine performance, and dark smoke from the exhaust. So, if you are having car acceleration issues along with these problems, get your catalytic converter checked out.

5. Malfunctioning oxygen sensor

If your car’s oxygen sensor is malfunctioning, it can take incorrect readings and affect your car's ability to set the correct air-fuel ratio. It can lead to several issues, including poor acceleration problems.

6. Faulty timing belt

If your car’s timing belt gets damaged or misaligned, it can cause problems with its acceleration. Hence, you should put equal emphasis on periodic vehicle maintenance and investing in a car insurance policy as a vehicle owner.

7. Malfunctioning TPS

The throttle position sensor, or TPS, keeps track of the throttle angle and informs your car’s ECU of how the system needs to be adjusted. A malfunctioning TPS can take on improper readings and negatively affect your car’s acceleration.

8. Limp home mode

The “limp home mode” is a safety feature that your car’s ECU activates after detecting a fault, and it can reduce your vehicle’s speed. Various factors can cause it to activate, so make sure to get it checked by a mechanic.

9. Issues with the spark plugs

Sometimes, defective spark plugs can interrupt the engine’s combustion process by affecting the complete burning of fuel. It can result in engine misfires, power loss, and acceleration problems.

10. Issues with the ECU

In rare cases, a faulty Electronic Control Unit (ECU) itself can be the reason behind your car issues. Its malfunction can lead to reduced vehicle power, acceleration problems, and lower fuel efficiency.

Conclusion

These are the 10 most common reasons behind your car’s poor acceleration problems. Similar to the timely renewal of your car insurance policy to enjoy continued benefits, get your vehicle serviced annually to keep it running smoothly. Vehicle maintenance and investing in a motor vehicle insurance plan are crucial for both brand-new and second-hand car owners.

Related blogs

Solutions for water in the Fuel Tank of your Car/bike

Car safety driving tips during monsoon season

How roadside assistance cover can be useful for cars