Why Is My Car Not Accelerating Properly?

When your vehicle begins to feel sluggish or has trouble accelerating, there's a definite problem. The best approach is to bring your vehicle to our shop for a proper diagnosis. Not only will this issue result in a less satisfying driving experience, but it can also be quite dangerous. Here are four of the top reasons why your car may not be accelerating correctly.

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

Your vehicle's mass airflow sensor and oxygen sensor help the engine maintain the proper air-fuel ratio. If one of these components becomes dirty, there's a good chance your vehicle's performance will suffer. The check engine light may turn on as well. While mass airflow sensors often can be cleaned by a certified automotive technician, dirty oxygen sensors typically must be replaced.

2. Malfunctioning Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

The throttle position sensor or TPS directly affects your vehicle's performance. When the TPS starts to fail, your car may struggle to accelerate. To find out if this sensor is bad, our technicians must perform diagnostic testing.

3. Clogged Fuel Filter

A fuel filter's job is to trap dirt and other impurities. If your fuel filter becomes clogged, the engine won't be able to develop full power. The only option is to replace your old fuel filter with a new one.

4. Dirty Air Filter

A dirty air filter can cause you to experience less responsive acceleration. To ensure optimum performance, your vehicle's air filter should be replaced at the recommended interval. This information can be found in your vehicle owner's manual.

If your vehicle is accelerating poorly, be sure to contact our dealership's service center. You can trust our experts to track down the source of your trouble.