Last Updated on April 30, 2020
The symptoms of a car not accelerating like it used to can occur on many high mileage vehicles. A driver might not notice these signs in normal day to day driving but they become abundantly clear when driving up a steep hill or when quickly trying to accelerate into fast moving traffic.
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It is in those situations that drivers will come to notice the obvious slow acceleration and the fact that the engine of their vehicle is struggling to keep up.
Read also: Symptoms of a Faulty Speed Sensor in Your Vehicle
Common Causes of Car That Won’t Properly Accelerate
This is a common problem in high mileage vehicles but there are no serious or immediate concerns regarding major engine problems. Some of the causes are actually minor and should be checked first in order to locate the issue and possibly fix it as well. Here are some of the most common causes:
#1 – Mass Air Flow Sensor Clogged or Malfunctioned
The mass air flow sensor (or meter) is located and attached to the inlet air cleaner. Since the function of the air flow sensor is to measure air mass that is flowing into air intake, a clogged or bad mass air flow sensor could send the wrong data to the engine ECU for calculating the air fuel mixture.
A very symptom of an air flow meter malfunction is car that won’t accelerate correctly.
#2 – Oxygen Sensor Malfunction
An oxygen sensor is device whose function is to monitor the exhaust emissions of the vehicle so that it can analyze the air-fuel ratio going through the engine of that vehicle.
To make a long story short, a car needs a proper amount of fuel in order for the fuel to burn properly in the combustion cylinders so that it may run smoothly and may accelerate as required.
This sensor sends the information about the amount of fuel being used to the computer unit of the engine and if this sensor get damaged, then the engine of that vehicle will have no idea what ratio of air-fuel mixture to use which may result in a fuel rich mixture.
This can cause the slow acceleration of the vehicle even with the accelerator pedal completely pressed making it unreliable when it’s needed.
#3 – Malfunction of TPS
The basic principle of the throttle position sensor (TPS) is to detect the throttle valve opening angle which is controlled by accelerator pedal. Then the TPS will send this data to the ECU.
If the TPS malfunctions, the engine speed cannot be controlled by the accelerator pedal and engine speed will increase or decrease without any press or depress the pedal.
#4 – Dirty or Clogged Fuel Filter
A dirty or clogged fuel filter is another reason for a car not accelerating like it’s supposed to when required to do so. With a dirty fuel filter, the engine won’t be getting enough fuel which means that the vehicle won’t be giving the acceleration performance that it should. Replace the fuel filter as soon as possible.
#5 – Clogged or Dirty Air Filters
Just like a fuel filter provides the engine with the clean fuel, an air filter provides the engine of a vehicle with clean air to be used in the air-fuel mixture which will be sent to the combustion chambers to burn.
If an air filter is clogged, then the engine won’t get the right air-fuel mixture resulting in slow acceleration. Replace the air filter as soon as possible.
#6 – Timing Belt
This component is as it sounds. The timing belt is something like a VIP in the list key of components of an engine. If this belt is off even by 1 tooth, it may cause some pretty notable acceleration problems.
However the list of causes of poor acceleration does not end here. Other culprits behind slow acceleration may include a slipping clutch, the transmission system itself, or an unexpected or unrelated problem which may surprise even veteran mechanics.
If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting a car that won’t accelerate, I recommend taking the vehicle to a reliable mechanic and let him give it a full checkup. This will allow him to properly diagnose the issue and recommend a suggested fix.
I have a 98 ford ranger that occasionally looses power & won’t accelerate. Can happen anytime on freeway or surface streets. It only last a few seconds then it’s ok again. No smells, no warning lights, nothing to indicate a problem. Mechanics can’t find any problem. Replaced battery then fuel filter then idle control motor. Still same problem but only for seconds & can go 200 to 1000 miles before it happens again. Can’t keep fix in stuff it isn’t. Any suggestions?
it so complicated, so the problem comes sometimes and take only for a second?
i mean when problem occur, it continuous or just a second then comeback normal again?
I have a 2016 Ford Fiesta that has acceleration issues. Sometimes it will be fine. And there are times it would just lag and there are times it would rev up like a race car. Thr latest thing it’s doing is not accelerating at all. I. Wondering what the problem
Can be.
Did you find out what was wrong
Maybe unrelated but may also help you out. 96 nissan pickup while idling would rev high then drop and continue doing it all on its own. Found a clogged fuel vapor line full of some unknown black material. It turned out that my charcoal canister burst inside clogging the vapor line end to end. Emptied the line along with new canister and smooth idle. Had that problem for years till it grew to where I could no longer ignore it.
i had a similar issues with a 94 ranger it randomly happened throughout the summer. i ended up needing my alternator replaced.
My 2015 Nissan Rogue did this only temporarily (I turned the car off and turned back on and drove fine) but my car would rev high around 4000rpm but barely gain speed (like I was barely pressing the pedal almost) seemed like it wouldn’t switch out of first almost.
This just happened to me today. Out of nowhere. In a 2015 Nissan Sentra, while in the middle of my commute home on the expressway. I would press the pedal to accelerate and not gain speed at all, but it would rev up to 4000rpm. But if I let go of the gas completely and then pressed the pedal lightly, it would gradually start to gain speed again. I’m not sure what that is. I haven’t tried driving it again since I’ve gotten home, so hopefully turning it back on will reset something. Has anyone offered an explanation yet? I’d just like to know it’s not my transmission going out..
this happened to me yesterday. did you find out what was wrong?
What was the fix?
Did you ever figure out why? This is what my car does. 2009 infinity g37
What did you do to fix it? Mine is doing this now.
This just started happening with my 2017 Nissan Rogue (46k miles). Won’t accelerate at lights and refs at 4000-5000 RMP. Literally started today and has me really nervous. Can’t afford big repairs!
Most Nissans today have the CVT transmissions. Those have been problematic since their debut and are not touched by most local shops. I do not believe the engine to be your problem since it is revving strong and responds as soon as you press the pedal. Check transmission oil level if it has a dipstick. Check out the Nissan forums for a better explanation on these variable valve transmissions.
I just had this same issue. Pressing down on the accelerator but can’t gain speed even though the car is revving. It’s your clutch. I know it sounds like it wouldn’t be the clutch but what’s happening is when you’re going in gear and then releasing the clutch, the car isn’t registering that the clutch has been let out so you can’t accelerate properly. I just got it fixed for R3000
Have to replaced fuel filter and all of that? I would say if yes then I would change where you get your gas some places will sell bad gas or have leaks in their ground holdings that allow water or contaminates in. Sounds like the fuel systems just flushing out something bad every now and then and struggling while processing it through the motor.
Thank you a lot I am gaining something at first mine wasn’t idling now it is so I wl try some of these thanks guys
My 98 Honda Civic lost strength wen I put it on gear I step on the gas an it goes but it takes time to move
On my 2004 Hyundai Elantra my rpms rev up high and it’s like I’m not accelerating then I start pushing on the gas pedal lightly and eventually it all comes back to normal I notice today was kind of hard going up hill the only thing my check engine light shows its canister purge valve solenoid
I have a 97 grand Cherokee v8 that does this when I’m takin off from the light usually I’m gone but I put that sea foam in it now 2 days later it’s doin it I thought transmission was goin out but should one of these be the problem?
I try to start my car it starts and i give it gas and then when I take my foot off the gas it cuts off?? What does that mean so many people too me many different things
Have a Nissan Altima that wont get out of 1st gear or past 15 rpm what should i be checking for ?
I have a 05 toyata camery. And what is happening in my car is when I turn the car on and put it into gear It will act as if it about to get ready and drive off but when I depress the gas pedal It will not accelerate. There fore leaving me idoling.
It sounds like it’s not going into gear properly. I’d take it to a shop to have the car looked at.
Did you find out what’s wrong mine is doing the same thing.
I have a 2012 Nissan Altima and It’s not accelerating but the car stays on. Moving only because the engine is on.pressing the pedal and nothing.cranks up fine.
Have a 2011 dodge caliber heat that gives a little jerk on acceleration and has new coil packs and air filter .the engine light flashes and goes back off it shifts and idles fine
A flashing check engine light is usually a misfire. How long has it been since the spark plugs have been changed? I would start there.
A slipping clutch can be the cause. Better to change the automatic tramission gear to another.
Depending on type of car( mine did the same thing) your alternator can cause your car to completely stop at any givon time, jumping it off is no help..car cannot run on battery alone
07 expedition- I just had to replace the battery. I replaced all 8 coil packs & 4 spark plugs. Can my alternator be causing it not to accelerate up hill or if passing???
How do you diagnose a clutch problem.? It seem to be the answer most guys have given me but I dont understand that if I have no problem shifting gears & my car goes into gear but it moves SLOWLY. So is it still the clutch?
If your engine speed (RPM) increases rapidly while your ground speed increases slowly (or not at all), it is indicative that the clutch is slipping. This is often most easily verified in 3rd gear at wide open throttle by just punching the gas pedal to the floor, but sometimes shows up in top gear depending on the vehicle.
I had the same issue with my land cruiser had to change the air flow sensor.
I have Hyundai Getz 1.1 recently my car not picking up the speed especially on hills and takes ages to pick up the speed and doesn’t flow with the traffic. What could be the cause for it ?
I have an Infiniti JX35 when I put the car in drive press the gas it’s not wanting to run it’s like getting stuck , also I can smell something bad not sure what it is . Any suggestions of what it can be ?? And thank you .
Gas filter needs to be changed
I drive hyundai Getz since 2008 ….practically the car lacks pick up, low on mileage and high on maintenance. We hv taken to hill stations only twice,prefer other cars. The reason is it’s kerb weight and less torque power.
Well check throttle body clean,all belts,fluids,clutch plate wear and tears.
Still have this car as I am too much attached to it.
Should try driving my truck to the shop when the transmission is out..having a new transmission put in…i dont want to pay a $200 toll..
I have a 2005 Chevy equinox, one day I was turning in my driveway and had the wheel cracked all the way to the right and was accelerating. I felt something (slip??) idk I know I felt/heard something make a weird noise and the problem immediately started… when I turn my car on and try to drive I barley move. I rev in high and it falls again and I can barley get to 40km/hr. When I turn off my car it seems to go away after I driven it for like 1 min. At first I only had to turn it off once but then after a couple days it was twice and now we’re up to like … 6 times. But once it’s gone it drives completely fine until I turn it back off and then go to drive it again another time.
I hope that made sense. Anyone have any ideas??
Its the throttle body. Its probably not closing completely.
I have a 06 Escalade that wont go over 60 mph. Don’t know what’s going on. Shifts fine but its locked in at 59mph.
I have a 2003 chevy impala ls 3.8 automatic she dont go over 20 mph and wont shift out of second and only goes to 2-2 1/2 rpms
Linkage or fuel.pump
Could be a exhaust manifold leak, or any leak on exhaust system. You would hear a ticking sound or even gas engine sounding like a diesel engine. Or it could be fuel pump, or fuel filter. Just get a fuel pressure tester and use it right after the fuel pump and before fuel filter to test fuel pump. Then to test fuel filter put it after fuel filter to test it. This should locate if it’s filter or the pump. Also doesn’t hurt to change engine filter and maybe use a can of seafoam in gas tank to clean injectors.
Check if your clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder is still okay, maybe the clutch is slipping mine used to be like that also…
Same with my Ford Fiesta, it happened for the first time a few days ago. I wonder if it is in the fuel system? Quality of gas? Dirty filter? I will have my mechanic check if it happens again.
No engine light or anything when it happened.
Sound like a small sensor at the front of engine is loose.
Why does my car accelerate slowly when I press the gas?
Could be that your car is driven in very cold weather. Happens with most cars. However, after it warms up, the problem should be gone. If not, then it’s something else.
My 2010 Nissan Altima has the same problem, did you ever figure it out ?
Mine is a 2003 Chevy Tahoe, I heard a singing sound, then it started jerking and then I had to press the gas petal all the way too the floor just too get in my driveway
You must not have been goin very fast then if you had the pedal all the way to the floor.
Hey my 2010 Altima is doing this now. Did you find out what it was?
Andreaz: i own a 2009 Xterra, same, same, NP starting it, but try and press on the gas, it goes like no where. was told it was rings and the likes, but it doesnt make any sense, problem i know, they have made these cars to darn complicated, and Mechs flat out do not know. even had it plugged into the ECM and codes dont tell much, multi cylinders misfiring…..well i knew that, and it doesnt say why. MAF sensor was replaced, still got problem. rive up engine at light, turns green and car goes no where, or a crawl at best, please help, what could it be? is it possible that it is for sure, not the trannie? now knowing just that would make me feel a bit better.
I have a 2003 Ford F-150 King ranch my RPMs shoot up to like 4,000 3000 whenever I have my gas pedal barely push down and don’t know what the problem is any solutions or ideas what the problem could be
Have you scanned for any codes? Could be a few things (throttle position sensor, MAF sensor, fuel filter, etc.).
I have an 02 avalon, no acceleration, burning smell. Cat Converter is brand new, new O2 sensor, new knock sensors.
many possible causes of your case. is there any smokes coming from exhaust?
I’m basically in the same boat, new cat,new o2 sensor? But still didnt help and yes there is smoke from mine
Throttle position sensor
On my Tahoe it was a beeping sound
Check your slave cylinder and your clutch master cylinder for any leaks. Follow the clutch Reservoir line down to the slave cylinder and master cylinder. This has happened to one of my vehicles before. Look up symptoms and causes on YouTube before you do that you need to check your clutch fluid level. That can also keep your shifter from going in gear
i have a 99 honda crv. the timing belt jumped which affected the four valves out the sixteen valve, my mechanic worked on the engine by replacing the valves and the gasket but since after the work the car acceleration is not normal again. it is so slow especially at idle speed.when you accelerate it somehow sluggish to pick. what could be the likely problem
Please check compression of each cylinder using a compression test
Possible causes and easiest step you can do:
check clogged exhaust pipe
check fuel pump weak
and please also chcek the compression of each cylinder
okay i will check then get back to you. thank you very much
I have a 2005 Toyota Camry drives normal for a while then just stops, motor is still running but when you push on the gas pedal it does nothing. I can shut the car off and restart it and I will drive fine again for a while.
Possible cause: Fuel pump weak
Toyota Camry 2002. Fuse went out on alternater. Got replaced. But car wouldn’t start. The second fuse in the box gets taken out it starts but when I push on gas pedal it won’t move. When the second fuse is in there it will start and immediately turn off. Maybe computer system going crazy?
Ever find issue happens to me 2005 vw
will happen to every car
I have a nissan pathfinder suv that once i press my brake or slows down it drags and does not want to increase its speed. if i accelerate it makes a sound the speedometer does not increase.
fuel filter has been changed injector and noozle has been cleaned. it did well for 2 days then became sluggish again.
My 2002 Nissan sentra is refusing to accelerate, everything seems to be fine except this morning, when i start the car and accelerates the engine goes off
Have tried over and over and still cant pick
U need a flush that’s all the same thing happened to my friend car and she got flush now it runs real good
I have a1990 toyotA desil and I ran out of fuel.i just put more desil in it and it started up but now no acceleration and leaks desil from below hand pump????????
I have a 2014 Toyota Corolla Axio, where the gas pedal is not accelerating when pressed. When I got it checked out, the mechanic is saying that the ECU is damaged. Could this be the case?
And the check engine light comes up as well
you can use scan tool to check engine light code, engine code will give you clue about malfunction of engine electrical problems
When i turn my truck on it just sort of shakes from side to side and it doesnt sound like it has much power and when you accelerate it wont accelerate at all its a 1997 chevy cheyenne 2500 single cab
On my car the coil packs were causing it to not accelerate. Had to replace them, more than once. There is something (many things!) wrong with Dodge Darts.
Which dodge was your issue? I’ve got a 08 grand caravan with this issue and the cool was one of the possible issues we had come up with.
I have a 99 Chevrolet P/UP 5.3L , I’m having acceleration problems, the odometer jumping up to 25mph. to 35mph. then down to 0. The break light flashing, and vehicle will not go fast, all you hear is the motor rising. Any words of wisdom ?
I have a 2012 Nissan Note and I was driving it one day up a hill/slope and it wasn’t going when I pressed the gas pedal. From that day I was not able to accelerate and my car not driving the same anymore.
Anthony, what was the problem?
I have a 2003 Subaru legacy L sedan and when I come to a stop and then press the gas pedal it’s almost non responsive and sluggish. I have changed the fuel pump and I’m going to change the pcv valve but I don’t know if that’s going to fix it please help.
I have a 1989 BMW 325i and when i floor it the rpm’s go up but it doesnt accel like a normal car its only got 200xxx miles on it, any help?
I have 1999 rx300 Its sluggish in movement especially when going up a hill and when on reverse. It moves sluggishly for some seconds and then accelerate backk. After applying brake to accelerate the car it moves sluggishly. Please what could possibly be the cause
i have 2007 mitsubishi grandis 2.0L di-d (volkswagen engine) . it was driving fine then all of a sudden would drop down in speed still with my foot to the floor, then it would gradually build back up . now the car will start after a good bit of persuasion but as soon as i rev it it cuts out . i put a new fuel filter in it and made no difference
I have a 2001 Ford Taurus that when I hit the gas it goes slow maybe like 20 mph. It just started last night. I was told to put transmission fluid in it.
I have a 06 vauxhall astra petrol 1600twinport it doesn’t accelerate in first gear takes awhile to pick up speed and is a bit jumpy in neutral at 2000revs 98000+miles
94 town car,door fine on streets but on fwy only goes about 57 and a bit of burning smell.
I have a 92 Toyota Camry, I was driving to work one morning and notice the car was struggling to go over 20 mph and i changed the spark plug wires assuming they were the problem they were misfiring. now when i press on the gas it picks up very slow and sluggish. It has new spark plugs , new gasket just did the oil change, all my fluids are good,
I can be on speed and when i slow down it takes a long time for the car to pick again,
2006 Chrysler Town and Country..has a slow start when accelerating. The rpms go to almost 3 before you feel it change gears.. a few weeks ago I went to.pull out on a hwy and go and it made a grinding noise so I instantly letnoff gas.the noise stopped the second I let up and has not happend again but I have been babying the car. A friend said it’s the water pump…im not to sure
I have Mazda6, 2004. It does not accelerate after starting. I have to warm the engine for twenty minutes, then it runs smooth. No acceleration prpblem then. Moreover, overdrive option turns on by itself sometime while driving.
i have 2007 Hyundai Matrix 1.8. In the past couple of months my engine check light has been always on and when i checked with a local workshop on the issue, initially it was said to be O2 sensor. Once they had changed the O2 sensor the real problem started, only after a couple of days (1 or 2 days) first the engine check light came on again and later on the car starts to decelerates abruptly to a near stop. I had to stop the car to the side and turn off and on the engine again to get it to running again.
I had brought my car to the workshop again to be checked and this time they changed the gearbox, the fuel injector and the fuel pump but to no avail. The error on the engine check light showed to be the O2 sensor so the workshop technician could be due to a dirty engine manifold and sent for cleaning. But still the problem exist, even the workshop themselves have given up on what could be the issue.
My patience has been running thin and the frequency the car stop abruptly has increased. Please help me as i am really clueless to solve this problem. Thanks.
I had this happen for almost three years in my Hyundai Santa Fe. I brought it every weekend back to the shop to try to figure it out. It wasn’t until maybe another two years later when a different mechanic, non-dealer, figured out that there was a crack in the gas tank. Entire gas tank had to be replaced
I have a 2012 Chrysler 200, when the AC is on my car seems to act sluggish and won’t accelerate very well. Any suggestions on what to have checked?
i have a 1998 ford puma 1.7
when i floor the gas pedal the rpm rise but the car doesent accelerate for a second
what might be the problem?
Hi,
I have a Toyota corolla 2008 , when i press the gas it is very sluggish , and make a noise like a race car, rpm of motor goes to 5000 for 50km/h
I have a 02 buick century & when I drive my car wont accelerate I had a street mechanic look at it & he say its my upper ..oxygen senor..all I know is when I drive it takes a long time to pick up speed no matter how hard I press on the peddle & its usually a lot of white smoke to what do you think the problem could be? The oxygen Senor or maybe something else??
Engine light will comes on if oxygen sensor malfunction…
My is Peugeot 206 it also won’t accelerate mostly on a hill,any suggestions?
I have a 2002 pontiac montana. It accelerates slow when I reverse and drive forward. What could be wrong?
Lexus V8
Had an issue with the feul pump … If I hit the gas she would just die and struggle to start again … Dropped the tank … Found the earth wire snapped … Fixed it … Drove Fine for a day … Now she took really long to start up then after she finally did start she had low idle … Extremely slow rev pick up … And If i rev her up to 2000 Rpm and let her come down again she backfires …
Hey. I have a 2011 model daihatsu move 660 cc. I had 3 passengers with me yesterday and as we got on the bridge , the car just stopped accelerating. No matter how hard i push the accelerator it won’t go above 30 kmph. Is it possible coz of the plugs? Or is there another fault. My car is automtic
My Toyota Camry 2010 car struggles to pick speed or even move at all in Park when the AC is on. I noticed that even without the AC, the engine now struggles to pick up speed. It eventually does though but some seconds late. Also, when my head lamps are in full beam, the inner lights kind of shake… Slightly though.
Please what can I do? I feel my mechanic doesn’t do a good job with my car.
Hi Demola, pls how did you solve this issue? Am experiencing same with my corolla
I have a 2005 chevy impala and my problem is that when I am at a red light the car will not go forward even though the car is running. There is no rough idle it just doesn’t accelerate. I turn it off and try again it accelerates briefly then loses acceleration. What could be the issue?
I have a 2013 Nissan Versa that will be slow when I take off from a light and then shifts to a normal speed. Ive used fuel cleaner, fuel injector cleaner, but I have not had a oil change for about 7000 miles.what do you think the problem can be and about what would it cost.
I have a nissan 2011 sentra that isnt aclerating properly or at all i cant go more up that 10per/m after i hit the curve i already changed both of my tires but now im having this problem and its also haveing a rotten egg smell and most of my dashboad lights r on. What could this be???
I have Hyundai accent 2002 auto car.some times when accelerated engine is not speedup.try to knocking.( while running)why it happen?
hey my accelerater goes to the bottom when I press it without me trying and the fastest it will go is very slow it wont hardly move when I make it go all the way down can u help me. is it because I don’t got an air filter my air filter is piping out the bonnet.
Nissan serena 2008 model problem climbing uphill,changed the spark plugs but still nothing has changed on normal road it’s fine and performs ok.
2014 nissan versa. While turning car wouldn’t accelerate. car rocked back and forth with Rpms going up. Car finally accelerated. Took it to the dealership b/c it is still under warranty. dealership can not duplicate the problem.
I have a 02 2500HD Silverado it was wrecked and sat for 6 months. When I fixed it ,it started but idles fine but won’t accelerate or when I give it gas it nigga down. I changed the fuel filter runs a little better changed the fuel and added Lucas additive. Could it be a sensor
I have Mercedes Benz Ml320 1999. The recent challenge with the car is that it can’t gain sudden acceleration. Like you want to overtake moving trucks.it will suddenly lose power. Also when you drive in slightly muddy surface
I have a 2009 Kia Spetra that has over 200K miles on it. I was driving on the surface streets & after I came to a stop at a traffic light, when the light turned green it would not accelerate. The engine was still on, I pushed the gas & the RPM indicator arm would go up but the car wouldn’t move. I tried it in other gears like 3 & 2 & L but nothing. Reverse oddly enough worked fine. A friend of mine that works on cars thinks it might be the transmission but didn’t rule out a fuel pump, front axles, or sensor. Any ideas?
I have 2011 Renault duster, the vehicle vibrates when in reverse drive, delay to accelerate when in drive position even if throttle is pressed down, what could be the fault please
1997 honda accord turning on my vehicle placing it in gear D4 I drive the car and the vehicle speed wont pass 20 and slowly decreases and will not pick up speed when I press down on the peddle engine just revs what can it be
I have 02 Toyota Camry. For the first time the acceleration of car went down . The more I press the pedal the car won’t move fast , just making noise. What could be the problem and a quick fix to get to my destination. Is it safe and advisable to continue moving the slow moving car.
I have a 2012 chevy cruze. It keeps jerking when accelerating I replaced the mass air flow sensor, both o2 sensor,and throttle body. It stopped jerking but sometimes it lacks power when accelerating now.
After car was service it’s started if I’m driving and want to accelerate the car will not go and makes a noise like it is smothering and then it kicks in and go
Hello I had an isuzu kb 300 lx I had recently change th engine but its only idle but do not had an accelerate when you press the pedal its raffle count cant go up or change the noise of idle
I have a 2013 dodge journey about 88,000 miles on it. Was on highway in traffic hit gas to accelerate card made a load whining noise barely moved, i pulled over shut it off and its been ok but im a little nervous. What could make this happen?
I have a similar problem, my car is Honda EOD 2003 V6. It won’t accelerate at all or even pick up eventually. Its just dragging and sucking my fuel like no man’s business. Please i need urgent help.
check engine light, if no engine light possible causes
fuel pump weak
clogged exhaust pipe
or even loss compression
please check the easiest way first
And if the engine light is on what could it mean?
Use scan tool, then see what code showing up
I have a 97 Acura 3.0 CL, it’s making clicking noises on the passenger side by the dashboard. It starts, will drive, but at a certain distance it won’t let me accelerate when I press the gas. I can turn it off and wait a few and it would start back up and drive again. What might that be?
Fuel pump weak
My car is revving itself and when i press the accelerator it does not respond what might be the problem because the car is travelling at 20km per hour.
is there check engine light on?
I have a 2004 Nissan Maxima when I push the gas peddle on drive it won’t move just revs up but if I put the car in one or two it will drive then I can put it in drive I have to do this every time I drive it
I have 07 Ford E350- V8 5.4L, replaced my compressor and on starting the car to fill gas. My car struggles to accelerate; engine working fine thou engine and throttle lights are both on. Need help here
My car will go along fine at any speed, then suddenly it feels like the brake is applied, car slows down alot, have to gear down to fourth or third, floor it and eventually will pick up fuel and take off again. Replaced 2 ignition coils (used) about 5 months ago as was doing this before and worked good since, but has started acting up again. New plugs but not wires. 04 echo. Do you think it’s these again? Anything else it could be?
My 2015 Kia Rio almost stops on me when I accelerate and it gets a little scary when I turn and it won’t go and a car is right behind me. It also does this when I change lanes
Hi.. My car is a 2006 Hyundai accent and it’s not accelerating in drive or in reverse it just lets me roll backwards there’s no awkward sound my car still starts up do you know what the problem might be?
i drive a 2011 toyota venza V6 acceleration is slow my 80 mph movess like a 45mph and consumes alot of fuel trust when i say alot.my wife drive 08 hyundai accent moves wey faster.at 50 and thats 1.6ltr engine
Hmmm.. am using Ford Fiesta 2011 model and for past 3 years I Ve been enjoying this car till I had the issue of overheating which has generated a lot of problems which I can’t even explain. They changed the gasket Nd so many parts of this car but the problem Stil persists. What should we do again to resolve this problem? Thanks.
cylinder head gasket?
My car acceletor dont picking up pickup…
Sometime it show some air licking type syptoms..
Why this happns.??
My daughters 2002 Infinite’s check engine light came on the other day and last night coming home her car wouldn’t accelerate over 60. When she got home it was running hot. What could it be?
2002 GMC Sonoma…truck goes into gear without hesitation or slippage, but will not accelerate over idle speed, maybe 5 mph. Engine races with acceleration but does not result in movement of the truck.
I have a 2001 hyundai Tiburon standard it drives good but sometimes i accelerate the pedal and it goes slow rpm goes to 3 and when it comes back down starts getting power can somebody help
a 99 camry that has no check engine light on but will accelerate poorly and then when I press the gas pedal down to the floor I will smell a burning smell later
I have Toyota spacio, the acceleration doesn’t react quickly especially when the engine has been idle for sometime, but when the engine has warmed up its very ok. what could be the problem?
My question is I have a 2002 Honda Civic. The check engine light is on. Saying misfire in cylinder 2. I replaced spark plugs and air filter. My car will not accelerate it just revs. I’m afraid it’s transmission. What do you think
I have a 2008 Hyundai Sonata. On two separate occasions after I started the car it would not accelerate or rev at all, though it would idle and move forward in idle. In both instances turning off the car and starting it again (rebooting it?) fixed the issue. Any ideas? And Thank you.
I have Mazda Axela 2004, in traffic when I pressed accelarate, speed and RPM very slowly increase but after 3_4 second the RPM suddenly increase 3_4 thousand and the car speed very high, what is the problem???
I have a 2012 Toyota Etios Liva drives normal for a while then just stops, motor is still running but when you push on the pedal it does nothing. I can shut the car off and restart it and I will drive fine again for a while. And the engine light on from that moment.
use scan tool check the code
I have a 06 Lincoln Mark LT 2WD. Its having issues while I accelerate it. It almost makes a “jumping motion” when it starts to bog down some. Not sure what is wrong with it. Cat. Converters have been cleared out, and plugs are good.
My car is Mercedes c320, it will accelerate and after sometimes it ceases to until I turnoff the engine and start it again before it can accelerate again and the process starts all over. What is the possible cause of this?
Toyota Scion won’t accelerate and won’t open up and when I got a light and it idle
i have 2006 peugeot 407, it wont accelerate when i press the pedal. what is the cause please?
the engine light is on
check what the engine light code. The dtc will give you come clue
I’ve got a 95 integra and when I give it gas it revs up but there’s hardly any pull. If It starts moving it starts vibrating unless I put it into the next gear, but I’m still maybe only going about 4mph
I have a GWM florid 1.5
When I am on the freeway of any open road driving between 80-120 km/h with my foot on the gas , after a while it just slows down while my foot is pressing down on gas. Then when I leave the gas pedal and place my foot back on the gas pedal it accelerates again.
I have changed the fuel pump , there are no smells , no leaks on the ground and no emergency check lights comes on and no sound.
Please help
did you check catalytic converter? clogged check
I use a 2007 Camry,my battery ran down and after jump starting,the car came on and just won’t accelerate at all,flat on 0,the gas pedal seems for fancy,I asked a mechanic to check,he said fuel pump,and next thing he said the gas pedal has to be replaced that he found out the car pumps fuel just fine,I asked him to return the pedal and I’ll get back to him.
flat 0? mean the car even not run at idle?
Maybe have problem with automatic transmission
could be parking brake on 😉
I have a 2005 Honda Accord ivtec, 4 plugs. The current mileage is about 110000. I changed the gear box recently and since then the car experiences poor acceleration. When started, the car will run normally for about 30 minutes but once there is a little hold up and car was on and ac running problem starts. When I trottle the car will not accelerate and when I continue matching the trottle the car starts to shoot and often grounds to a halt. When I switch the car off and restart, the acceleration becomes normal for a while before the failure to accelerate repeats.
I have also noted that the car doesn’t easily accelerate beyond 100km/h. My technician attributed the problem to the raising switch which he brought out and cleaned. The problem stopped but reappears after some days of driving. I have also had to change the plugs and had the nozzles serviced. Please help me with useful information.Thank you.
I have a Chevrolet aveo 2009 acceleration is very low even when I press on the gas to the floor and engine shakes when ac is turned on.can some one give me some advise please
I have a 1999 Lincoln Town Car Signature Series and it will not accelerate when I press on the gas does this mean that the fuel filter needs to be changed
Have a Mercury Mountaineer 2007, yesterday coming from shopping, my car was working normal, suddenly at a red light, stopped responding when tried to accelerate and stayed that way every stop light on my way back home, before get there, stop to buy some groceries. After that the car was back to normal.
For 8 months ive spent hundreds of dollars and still no result! Whenever I am sitting at a stop sign to accelerate or a stop light… whenever I mash my gas pedal it’s a horrible scrubbing sound and sometimes it will literally stop my car in it’s tracks!! My gas pedal has been checked to see if something was stuck…brakes has been checked… throttle body been cleaned… rotors been replaced brake pads…motor mounts… driving axel…but yet the same thing!!!!! I just found out my abs sensor is bad! My question is could that affect the acceleration! It’s very dangerous and its a scary feeling when driving my car!! It feels like metal…but will literally stop my car in it’s tracks whenever I accelerate after a stop!! #Help
Have you had your car scanned for any DTC (trouble) codes? A bad ABS sensor shouldn’t cause something like this.
The other day I was leaving the driveway with slippery roads. The wheels did spin as I was on a slop but did manage to get on the road. Immediately I noticed the ENGINE LIGHT, and Traction control lights on. I had slow acceleration after that and still do. When I restarted the engine, the ENGINE LIGHT is on and after I am in gear and moving the traction light stays on even on dry roads. Any thoughts? 2009 Camry 125Km
Your car may be in limp mode (can you shift through all gears?) or another serious issue. I’d recommend getting the check engine light code scanned asap.
I have 2009 VW Jetta sports wagon I just had a new water pump and knock sensor replaced and ever since then my car will drive normal until I go to Accelerate quickly it will start to jerk and bogged out almost coming to a stop when pedal is pressed to the floor what else could Cause this
I have an 2008 Cadillac Escalade and it only goes 20 mph and does not reverse, I already replaced the solenoid. Do you know what could be the problem
Your vehicle may be in “limp mode” which is a safety precaution when the car’s computer recognized a serious issue with the engine or transmission. You should get it scanned for any trouble codes. I’m actually in the process of creating a new post on this topic but it unfortunately won’t be published for a few days.
I have a 1999 Toyota Solara. My check engine light flashed on and off a couple times when I tried to accelerate up a small incline. It was also very cold out that particular night. It has about 120k miles on it. We ran a code scanner but nothing came up. Any suggestions? It was struggling to accelerate and would stick at 2000 rpms. Then the check engine light would flash on and off.
If the check engine light was flashing, there should be at least 1 trouble code stored when you scan it. If the car simply wouldn’t go past 2000 RPM it could also be in limp mode signaling some major issues. I’d recommend getting it scanned again in case the scanner itself was faulty. Go to a local Autozone if needed as they’ll scan it for free.
My car struggles to pull away, it chug chugs for a couple of seconds even if I press the peddle down totally, sometimes feel like an airbubble that I’m pushing through, its so frustrating but when I drive fast it goes like a dream but the minute I slow down it takes forever to move back up. We replaced spark plugs and coil but no difference
2005 Altima, 178,000 mi Car will rev in park, when put in drive or reverse will glide forward or backward however when accelerating to actually drive will not go even with gas pedal pushed all the way down!!! Check engine light on. What could it be? Am going to have to have it towed.
My car wont pick up any speed it will not let me go over 10 miles
Make sure this doesn’t apply: https://cartreatments.com/limp-mode/
2011 ford fusion , driving normal then sudden lost of power , wont accelerate . but is all good after i shut it off and restart.
I’d get it scanned for any trouble codes asap. Your car may be in limp mode which is often reset after a restart.
https://cartreatments.com/limp-mode/
I drive a Honda V6 2003. After driving several miles, when I slow it won’t pick up speed until I turn off and restart the engine. My mechanic has not been able to detect the fault.
Automatic corolla 2007, it accelerates smoothly up to 65km/hr then stop accelerating. It only allow acceleration after it decelerate to 25km/hr.
I have a 2006 Chevy HHR hit a rock knocked a hole in the oil pan patched it I put oil in it today got about a mile then it wouldn’t accelerate greater than 15-20mph then would just rev up I did spill a little oil like a doofus as I was filling it up but it didn’t burn no smoke I don’t know if maybe the oil could have gotten on a component and fried it or if it’s another issue entirely
I have FORD FOCUS CAR – Manual Gear Transmission system, Run 2,23,000 KMS.
Car is condition is good. All sensors are working.
From yesterday i found some variation in Odometer readings display when I accelerate Foot pedal Engine RPM increasing as earlier. But found variation in Speedo meter readings.
2000 RPM ~ 80-90 KMH (Earlier 100 KMPH)
3000 RPM ~ 100-105 KMPH (Earlier 120 KMPH
2 days before I replaced new FUEL PUMP unit. Not found any difference in Engine RPM (raise or lower the RPM by accelerate and decelerate).
Please advise me to inform our Mechanic to do repairs / replace required spares.
I have a 05 Ford focus when I fire it up on a morning I can put my foot to the floor and the rev needle dosent move it takes about 5mins then it will rev but there is no power in any of the gears it struggles to get over 80 then as soon as I hit a hill it’s strait back down to 50/60 then take a 10mins to build it’s speed back up any ideas
I have a 2003 Ford 250 7.3L Diesel
When it gets hot outside, my truck seems to lose acceleration and power. I can still drive, but with my foot to the floor, it barely accelerates. I can get going about 50km/h.
If I turn it off, and turn it on again, it works just fine. Anywhere from 5ft to 50km. Doesn’t have any problems at all when it’s cooler outside. And turning the key off, then on again seems to fix the problem. However sometimes it’s just a few seconds then it loses power/acceleration again.
Sounds like the truck is putting itself in limp mode. See this: https://cartreatments.com/limp-mode/
You’ll want to scan for any DTCs using an OBD2 scanner.
My 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe will not accelerate.No smell just won’t go pass 20 mph any thoughts. Retired and limited budget.
It could be any of the issues above or even something else. Best thing to do is to get it scanned for any trouble codes by a local mechanic.
I have a 96 Pontiac Sunfire. It’s a standard and when I shift gears it sputters acting like it’s not getting enough gas. What does this mean
First thing to do is check for any vacuum leaks in the engine. A rubber hose might have popped off, cracked, or gotten a tear in it. After that, check simple things like the air filter and spark plugs. You can also use a diagnostic tool to scan for any trouble codes the computer stored to help pinpoint the problem.
Hi, I was driving on the highway when my gas finished. I got gas back in. Started the car a Honda Pilot 2004, it started normal but it won’t accelate despite pressing the gas pedal (accelerator) to the fullest. Got a new fuel pump, got the injector nozzles cleaned and it still won’t accelate. What could be the likely issues please
I have a 2000 Mercury Grand Marque. After driving 200 or more miles and the car is stressed going up a long stretch of highway the car stalls. By letting my foot off the accelerator it will gradually pick up speed when car is going down hill or when the highway levels off. Three dealers have indicated no problem after full diagnostic evaluation. I’ve replaced fuel filter, all plugs, three coils, with no results. What to do?
I have not replaced the Mass Air Flow Sensor, or the oxygen sensor, or the throttle position sensor.
I have a 2017 Mini Cooper. It’s a stick shift and it used to accelerate easily and effortlessly, but now it struggles whenever I press the gas pedal. I got an oil changed and it didn’t fix it. I don’t don’t what to do. Any advice?
So I have an 05 Acura rsx type s and have been have acceleration issue so 1 2 3 gears I accelerate just fine but 456 if I push the gas more then 1/3 of the way down the rpms go up but I go no where as if I were in neutral one I let of and reapply within that 1/3 I average without issue. I’ve changed the tps checked alternator just need an idea I’ve read so many things that are all over the board any help would be great !!
You likely have a worn clutch or misaligned which is causing slipping. The longer you let it go, the worse the problem will get.
Well that’s ain’t good how much does a clutch usually cost
Not cheap since labor is about 5-6 hours. Independent shop about $600-$1000 total for an OEM clutch replacement. Dealership would probably be double that.
I have a bmw 320i E46 2003 model. Is idling but it doesn’t rev at all. What can be the caurse ? Pls help.
Hi guys yesterday i serviced my car as i noticed everytime i turned on the ac my car would shake if stopped at red light or just generally standing at traffic jam. The mechanic said air filter was clogged with dirt he cleaned it out now today i noticed my car is very heavy and doesn’t move if stopped at red light and or just standing in traffic. Then the engine light came on. Im so paranoid coz i just spent $200 yesterday now another problem has strted. Would anyone knw i drive a 2007/2008 toyota yaris sedan
I have a 2011 Chevy Cruze it will only drive 25 mph and will not go in reverse what could it be
I have a 2009 kia optima that had a exaust leak we found out we had a broken flex pipe so we replaced it but had to clamp one side temporarily because blot was fused on and couldnt remove it even so still had a decent leak somewhere and now car will barely move any suggestions on fixes or even what could cause both or one of the problems
Hey how you guys doing, I have a 07 Dodge Caliber With 135k miles that I just bought it’s a second hand though, used to run good with Only one problem, my car was blowing cold air instead of heat, I try to get it fix , I replaced the 2 thermostat With brand new ones, 10 minutes after I left the car shop it got worse mind you I live in ny 😞, now fast forward a month later, technically yesterday the car started acting a little funny, every time I press the gas pedal it wouldn’t accelerate, also for the car to move I have to shut the car off, wait a good 7 seconds then to start it up, it would run until I hit the break
I have a Honda civic 2001 model. When in traffic for too long the car will not accelerate.
The gear will not change. But when i allowed it to cool for like 40minutes it will pickup now again
Have changed plugs fuel pump.
Please what could be the problem?
It sounds to me like the transmission is overheating. Check the transmission fluid level to make sure it is filled up. Also, you may try changing the transmission fluid if it hasn’t been changed in a while. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) should be red. If your fluid looks really dark and smells burnt, it might be time to swap it out with some fresh stuff.
I have a vx commodore when I reverse it’s fine but when I put it in drive I put my foot down and it revs out and slowly starts to drive I don’t know what the problem is
My 2001 Pontiac Sunbird always jerked when driven. It was getting worse and one day with the hood open I heard a sort of snap sound. It was coming from a plug wire shorting against the engine top. Could also see it shorting, so took it out and replaced it. Problem solved; to search for that kind of electrical leakage sometimes you must wait til it gets a little dark outside before you can see the sparks.
I got a ’94 Bronco and its has a low idle and barely moves when I push the pedal to the floor. And it wont go past 2nd gear
I would start by checking for vacuum leaks. See if there’s something obviously wrong, like a vacuum line disconnected. If nothing looks out of place, you can perform a smoke test. If you see smoke coming from somewhere it’s not supposed to, there’s your leak.
Some people also spray a flammable fluid, such as carb cleaner, starter fluid, throttle body cleaner, or liquid propane around the hose junctions. If the idle raises at any point while you’re spraying down the vacuum lines, chances are that’s where you might find a leak. Be careful that you don’t do this around any flame sources, and keep a fire extinguisher handy just in case.
I have a 2012 Nissan Rogue which is having problems with all the dash lights come on and it won’t accelerate at all then after a while it was i can turned back on but has check engine check that and said it was the TCM the transmission control module change that and was working than when back to be before lights all on and won’t accelerate?
It sounds like your vehicle is entering limp mode due to a problem with the transmission. Check your transmission fluid to make sure it’s topped off. If that doesn’t fix the problem, I would take it to a shop as soon as you can to have it checked out by a mechanic to get your normal acceleration back and avoid possible transmission damage.
If you want to know more about limp mode, I actually just wrote an article on it which is due to be published soon. Check back in a few days if you’re interested.
i have a 2007 Mercedes Benz B 170, the car can not accelerate beyond 120 km/hr.
My 407 last week started jerking furiously, and would refuse to accelerate while in holdups motion, but would become normal after i restart the engine ,these furious jerking and loss of acceleration ,jerks mildly while am in hold ups and loses power intermittently while am driving below 30kph.
please help ..
Sounds like you’re possibly experiencing misfires. You could try checking the condition of the ignition system (plugs, wires, ignition coils) and look for vacuum leaks with a smoke test. If you’re not sure where to go next, take your car to a local mechanic to get the problem diagnosed.
I have a Toyota cr 42 townace Noah van in Sri Lanka millege over 3 lakhs km when running sometimes engine not racing and not accelerated ,but if I turn off the engine and again turn on it races normal and can go what is the problem? Email me if you can please
I have Nissan Rogue 2008, it once stalled for almost 30 seconds when I stopped on traffic even when I depressed the gas pedal right to the floor. I was so embarrassed. It did so frequently ONLY from stop position. It finally stopped one day and I towed it to the transmission center, no error code discovered. I was with the transmission center for days. I later drove it home and have been driving it for over 3 weeks now with no issue. Again, this happens only on stop position. I still experience it for very few seconds but occasionally, not sure what the issue is.
I’m guessing it is an engine issue not a transmission issue since you said it stalled. I wonder if one of the sensors has an intermittent connection or a bad ground.
Check the battery and alternator terminals to make sure they are tight and free of corrosion.
Nissan Altima 2009 2.5 svc. After driving 30+ minutes vehicle won’t accelerate and makes a loud whining noise. Air condition system also tripped same time when speed reduce after 30 minutes. Anybody have solution?
Sounds like it’s possibly an issue with one of the accessory pulleys. See if it has any check engine lights and go from there.
I have a problem with a Toyota Quantum, I replaced the engine but now the vehicle is starting and idling but does not accelerate.
Check to see if it has any codes. If you just replaced the engine it’s likely you simply forgot to plug something in, such as a MAF sensor.
If you’re sure everything is plugged in, check for vacuum leaks. It’s pretty easy to miss a vacuum line.
I have an toyota axio 2015. And it stops accelerating after a 100km driving. So what is the problem in this situation.
It could honestly be a number of things. Try to use a scan tool to gather more information. Is the vehicle running lean? Running too hot? Any check engine lights? The answers to these questions will help you narrow down the scope of the problem and determine the proper repair.
my Honda 2010 sometimes when I start the car, It will like every other cars but if I push my throttle pedal down, my rpm won’t move an inch.
If the car is running but the tachometer doesn’t move, it could be an issue with the gauge cluster or an issue with the tachometer signal.
how can I get the engine check signal off my speedometer
Take your car to a trusted mechanic for a diagnosis of the problem. Once the problem is fixed, the code will be cleared.
Hello I Have a 2002 Ford Mustang at first it was acting up when I would go over 100mph now when I try to go over 60mhp or even leave at a fast rate my car doesn’t do anything
I hope you’re only doing 100 mph at the drag strip. Do you have any check engine light codes?
My 1999 ford Taurus wagon was sitting for about 5 years and now when I start it and drive it only goes for a little bit and the fuel pump winds up really high and then j think it shuts off. I have to put it in neutral and restart the car for it to accelerate again
That’s what my ford ranger is doing put in new batterie ..di u think spark plugs or alternator??
It’s easy enough to pull the spark plugs to inspect their condition. If they look worn, I’d replace them.
I wouldn’t think the alternator would cause acceleration problems. If you’re concerned about the health of the alternator, you can have it tested at an auto parts store, often for free.
I have a Toyota Avalon 2005,which I drove out with smoothly in the morning and come back to park it.three hours later i wanted to take it out and the car started jerking and unable to accelerate properly.please what can be the cause.
There could be so many causes. I would have the car inspected by a mechanic you trust to diagnose the issue.
I have a 2011 Chevy Silverado 1500 5.3. I’ve been having issues with it the last few days. I’ve had the check engine light on for a while now, one code saying the fuel is too rich and another saying it’s too lean, and I noticed there’s a lost of performance with the truck. But I filled up the truck a couple of days ago and put some fuel cleaner additive and the next day I was in a drive thru and it’s making a really weird noise like a rattling noise or something and then it just wouldn’t go. It’ll start and run all day long and idle but when I’m pressing the gas it just won’t go. I thought for a minute it was the MAF sensor because I noticed it was unplugged but I got a new one and plugged it up and unplugged the battery to reset the pcu and it’s still doing the same thing. It will run fine for about 5 minutes and then back to it. I’m thinking it might be the fuel pump but I’m not sure. Please help
You’re probably going to have to do some diagnostic work to uncover the cause of the issue. It does sound like it may be a fuel system issue, so I’d start by changing the fuel filter if it’s been a while since that was done. It should be done regularly anyway. Next, you could do a couple different fuel system tests to see if everything is working properly, such as a fuel pressure test.
I have renault Clio 2 2005 model, MY car have a problem of acceleration after a few kilometers of Traffic JAM. It will not accelerate even if I press the gas pedal. I have to turn of th engin cool it for few minutes and start driving again? any idea?
This sounds like a complex problem so I’d recommend taking the car in to your local mechanic.
Hi, i have a 2006 D4D 4×4 TD Hilux. I have a power/acceleration problem that occurs sporadically. It usually starts happening around 2000 rpm than all of a sudden finds power again and off she goes. Changed fuel, air filters etc and have had the air flow sensor cleaned. Any ideas on what this may be?
Thanks!
Do you have any check engine lights? You will probably have to look at some scan data to point you in the right direction. A good shop should be able to do this if you don’t have a capable scan tool.