Why Is My Car Not Accelerating Properly?

You ask a lot of your Chevy, which means that eventually, problems are bound to occur. Sometimes a car will have issues due to old age or the general wearing down of its parts and components. Other times, neglecting regular car maintenance can be the source of your car's issues. If you notice that the car doesn't respond quickly when you step on the accelerator, there may be a problem with a part in the mechanical system, such as a sensor or a filter. A mechanic should look at the car, but you can also do some troubleshooting on your own.

Dirty Oxygen Sensor or Mass Air Flow Sensor

Your Chevy's engine is equipped with several sensors that help regulate airflow and, in turn, ensure that it performs smoothly and reliably. Two sensors critical for vehicle performance are the oxygen and mass airflow, or MAF, sensors. These two sensors work harmoniously to supply the engine with the air it needs to complete the combustion necessary for the car to run. If the sensors get clogged with debris or break, the engine won't get the oxygen needed to operate correctly.

Malfunctioning Throttle Position Sensor

A failing throttle position sensor is another possible explanation for why your car's performance is suffering. However, problems with the throttle position sensor should not be ignored, as they can cause more significant car problems down the road. At first, a problem with the throttle position sensor may intermittently cause issues with acceleration. The TPS supplies the engine with the right combination of air and fuel. If the sensor breaks, the engine won't get adequate supplies of either, which can cause harm to the engine and leave you with more expensive bills.

Clogged Fuel Filter

The fuel filter acts as a barrier between the engine and impurities that can be carried into the fuel system from outside. The fuel filter is designed to trap harmful particles and contaminants before they reach the engine, where they can cause damage and get into the engine's components and the fuel line. The fuel filter will need to be replaced when it gets too dirty to make your car run smoothly and prevent acceleration problems.

Dirty Air Filter

The air filter in the engine is another part that needs to be kept clean for proper vehicle performance. The air filter should trap contaminants in order to supply the engine with all the air it requires to perform at its best.

Contact us for an acceleration service appointment today.