Why Is My Car Not Accelerating Properly?

During the time that you own your Chevrolet, it's inevitable that issues will eventually crop up. One problem you may notice, especially if you are trying to drive on the highway or tow a trailer, is slow acceleration. If your Chevy starts to accelerate more slowly than usual, a problem with a component in the engine might be to blame. Your Chevrolet is equipped with a few different parts in the engine that can cause problems with accelerating, including the engine fuel filter and the air filter. Several sensors can also malfunction and lead to problems. Consider these four common problems when it comes time to pinpoint the cause of your car's lackluster performance.

Dirty Oxygen Sensor or Mass Air Flow Sensor

There are two different sensors in your car's engine that can affect its performance. One is the oxygen sensor, and the other is a mass airflow sensor. The oxygen sensor has a covering that can get clogged with environmental contaminants such as pollen, dust, and dirt. When the oxygen sensor is too dirty, it won't allow for the proper mixing of air and fuel required to keep the engine going. The car's performance and fuel economy are affected. The mass airflow sensor can also become clogged, signaling the "Check Engine" light to illuminate and impairs acceleration.

Malfunctioning Throttle Position Sensor

The Throttle Position Sensor, or TPS, regulates Chevy's throttle valve opening angle. The sensor monitors the position of the opening angle, which then allows it to relay information back to the computer in the engine about how the system should respond based on the information available. The sensor can't provide the engine's computer with this information if it's broken or not working correctly.

Clogged Fuel Filter

The fuel filter is another part that can develop problems and affect the car's ability to accelerate. A clogged fuel filter normally rids the engine fuel lines of pollutants that can make their way into the engine and cause poor performance or even create problems with the engine. A clogged fuel filter will likely need replacement.

Dirty Air Filter

Similarly, the air filter is designed to trap particles and debris in the air before they reach the engine and cause damage. The air filter should be replaced from time to time to ensure that it is filtering the air as intended. When the filter gets too dirty, the engine won't get enough air.

To schedule an appointment for acceleration diagnostics, contact our dealership today.