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What causes engine hesitation at low RPM?
I have a 2012 Toyota Camry that was a ‘hand me down’ from my parents when I started driving. Lately, the engine is lagging when the car is at lower speeds. I want to keep this car running as long as possible! What causes engine hesitation at low RPM?
Lynell Spencer · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
That feeling when you hit the gas and nothing happens—even if it is only for a moment—you know it isn’t good.
Engine hesitation at low RPM can have many different causes—all of which result in an incorrect mix of fuel, air, compression, and spark in your engine. Let’s start with the most simple causes first:
- Bad fuel: Make sure that you are puttinghigh octanefuel in your car. Premium fuel will decrease knock—which happens when the air/fuel mixture combusts too early, causing a pressure spike in the cylinder.
- Bad vacuum hoses: Check the vacuum hoses around your engine for wear, cracks, or holes. Any air leakage creates engine hesitation at low RPM.
- Faulty fuel system: This includes your fuel lines, pump, filter, pressure regulator, and injectors. If any of these parts fail, it will cause hesitation.
- Faulty ignition system: If spark plugs, wiring, or your rotor needs to be replaced, your engine will lose power at times, causing hesitation.
- Bad sensors: Your car’s oxygen sensor, mass airflow sensor, and manifold absolute pressure sensor all work to regulate airflow through your engine. Any one of them can cause an improper air to fuel ratio.
- Gas recirculation valve: The gas recirculation valve is responsible for directing exhaust gas into the manifold to mix with the fuel. If it is faulty, it will cause engine hesitation at low RPM.
You may have to fork over some money for this repair, but you can put some major cash back in your pocket with
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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