At Robert’s Collision & Repair, we hear about this particular issue very frequently. So from the experts, here are a couple reasons why your car might not be accelerating.
Emergency Brake
First things first, check if your emergency brake is on. This prevents you from moving at all, and it’s a pretty common mistake.
Neutral
Similarly, if your car is set in neutral, it may stay at a stand still just as with an emergency brake or roll away unintentionally. This is another easy mistake with a pretty easy solution.
Electrical Issues
This is not so much an easy solution. Electrical issues will require a maintenance professional to take a look at your car. Often, it has to do with the car misreading its own pollution error. Luckily, we know a great mechanic! (hint: it’s us!)
Worn Timing Belt
This simply means that you’ll need your timing belt repaired or replaced. As you accelerate, the wheels turn and increase your rotations per minute (RPM). This strains the timing belt, so if it is worn, the acceleration will hesitate or fail.
Low Fuel Pressure
This is a more complicated problem but can be quickly remedied with a replacement or maintenance of the fuel pump. You’ll know your car’s issue is low fuel pressure if the car sputters too much, doesn’t quite accelerate, there are power issues, or if the car doesn’t start at all.
What to Do When Your Car Isn't Accelerating
If you've checked the common issues like the emergency brake and gear settings and your car still isn't accelerating properly, it's time to visit an auto mechanic. Attempting to diagnose and fix complex issues without the proper knowledge and tools can lead to further damage or safety hazards. A professional mechanic will be able to conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle, identify the root cause of the problem, and perform the necessary repairs or replacements to get your car back on the road safely.
Other Possible Causes
While the aforementioned reasons are commonly encountered, there are several other factors that could contribute to your car's inability to accelerate:
Clogged Air Filter:
A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict the airflow to the engine, leading to poor performance and sluggish acceleration. Regularly replacing the air filter as part of your vehicle maintenance routine can help prevent this issue.
Faulty Oxygen Sensor:
The oxygen sensor monitors the level of oxygen in the exhaust gases and helps adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal performance. A malfunctioning oxygen sensor can cause the engine to run rich or lean, resulting in hesitation or lack of acceleration.
Transmission Issues:
Issues with the transmission, such as low transmission fluid levels, worn-out transmission components, or transmission control module failure, can hinder your car's ability to shift gears smoothly and accelerate properly.
Engine Misfire:
A misfiring engine occurs when the air-fuel mixture in one or more cylinders fails to ignite properly. This can be caused by faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, or engine control module issues, resulting in poor acceleration and rough idling.
Why a Car That Doesn't Accelerate Can Cause Accidents
Reduced Maneuverability:
A car that fails to accelerate properly may not be able to respond promptly to changing traffic conditions or emergency situations, compromising its maneuverability on the road. This can increase the risk of collisions, especially in high-traffic areas or during adverse weather conditions.
Lack of Power for Overtaking:
Proper acceleration is crucial for safely overtaking slower-moving vehicles on highways or overtaking obstacles in emergency situations. A vehicle that lacks sufficient power or acceleration capability may struggle to execute these maneuvers, leading to potential accidents or near-misses.
Inability to Escape Dangerous Situations:
In emergency situations where quick acceleration is needed to avoid hazards or collisions, a malfunctioning vehicle may leave drivers with limited options for evasive maneuvers. This can significantly increase the likelihood of accidents and injuries on the road.
Unpredictable Behavior:
A car experiencing acceleration issues may exhibit unpredictable behavior, such as sudden stalls or surges in speed, posing a danger to both the driver and other road users. These erratic movements can create confusion and increase the risk of accidents, especially in busy traffic environments.
By addressing acceleration issues promptly and ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained, you can help mitigate the risk of accidents and ensure a safer driving experience for yourself and others on the road. Remember to consult with a qualified mechanic for professional diagnosis and repairs whenever you encounter any performance issues with your car.
These are just a handful of suggestions about why a car might not accelerate. If you’d like to know more or need any assistance with your car, give us a call! We’d be happy to help.