My 2018 Mini Cooper is having some issues when I step on the gas. It seems like the car loses power or something. Why would a car stop accelerating when you are driving?
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
When a car stops accelerating while driving, the most common causes are a bad sensor, dirty fuel or air filters, or the timing belt. Pressing the gas and not having your car respond is dangerous—and scary. This isn’t the kind of thing you can ignore.
a thorough inspection. Here is a rundown of the most likely culprits:
Mass air-flow or Oxygen sensor malfunction: These two sensors work together to control the fuel to air ratio of the gas sent to your engine’s combustion chambers. If the mix is off, your car won’t accelerate as expected.
Throttle position sensor (TPS): Your TPS tells your car’s computer when your throttle is open, closed, or in between. Your gas pedal will no longer control your engine speed if it isn’t working.
Air filter or fuel filter needs replacement: These filters ensure that the air and fuel mixing in the engine are clean and flow as expected.
Timing belt adjustment/replacement: If a timing belt slips even a little, it can have a significant impact on acceleration
While you are busy troubleshooting your car’s acceleration symptoms, let
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