Help! My Car Is Chugging and Losing Power

May 13, 2020 | Blog, Car Maintenance, Car Problems, Engine, Total Car Care

Car speedometer
Your vehicle is a complicated piece of machinery. If your car suddenly chugs and loses power driving down the road, you are not alone. Unfortunately, losing power while accelerating is a more common occurrence to U.S drivers than you might think.

While this symptom could be severe, or as simple as running out of gas, it can also be attributed to several causes that are related to mechanical problems, malfunctioning sensors, and actuators. Depending on what engine you have; gas or diesel, the reason why your car is losing power varies.

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    Why Is My Car Chugging and Losing Power?

    When your car loses power while driving, it could be due to several reasons. For starters, for your vehicle to operate efficiently, it needs to regulate the correct fuel, compression, and airflow. In case there is a problem with this process, it could result in a significant loss of power. The following are common reasons why your car could be chugging and losing power:

    Clogged fuel filter

    When you press down your gas pedal and don’t get the reaction you are expecting, it could mean there is a problem with your fuel delivery system. The most common culprit is a clogged fuel filter. Your fuel filter works to ensure there is no dirt or debris in your system. Therefore, over time, it needs to be replaced. When your fuel filter is dirty, it puts a strain on your fuel pump, making it work harder, resulting in a less efficient drive.

    Fuel Filter

    Worn out plugs

    Chugging could also be a sign that your car needs new spark plugs. While small, this component is a critical part of your engine. They are what spark the air and fuel mixture in the engine sending power surging through the vehicle. In case they are not working well, your car won’t be able to function appropriately or even crank. If you suspect you have worn-out spark plugs, visit your local AAMCO mechanics and have them inspected.

    Image of spark plugs

    Faulty Ignition coil

    Your vehicle’s ignition coil is what converts power from your battery to ignite your engine. When you have a damaged coil, the air and fuel mixture would be inappropriate. Therefore, a faulty ignition coil won’t be able to produce ignition properly.

    Faulty fuel injectors

    Fuel injectors are an essential component of your vehicle’s engine. They are located within your fuel system, and their main task is to spray fuel inside the engine. Your engine’s computer controls your fuel injectors, including the specific time intervals and patterns that they spray fuel into the engine. That way, the engine can perform the best it can under different driving conditions. When your fuel injector is damaged, your engine won’t be able to generate sufficient power to run the vehicle. The driver will experience all kinds of engine performance problems.

    O2 sensor malfunction

    As exhaust gasses are leaving your engine, the amount of gasses that leave is measured by the oxygen sensor. The ECU or Electronic Control Module uses this information to figure out the real-time air-to-fuel ratio that exists in your vehicle’s engine. The O2 sensor is usually located inside the exhaust system and is what enables the engine fuel injection and timing system to work effectively.

    Camshaft position malfunction

    Your vehicle’s camshaft sensor is what is responsible for getting information about the camshaft speed of your car and sending it to the ECM (Electronic control module). This module is a computer that comes in several modern vehicles. Information about the camshaft speed is sent to the ECM, making it possible for the computer to manage both fuel injection and timing based on the information.

    Camshaft rod

    AAMCO Orlando Is Restoring The Power

    AAMCO Central Florida is a leader when it comes to transmission and auto maintenance care. Our clients have chosen us as the “go-to transmission auto maintenance center”, and its environs due to our professional technicians, state of the art equipment, and years of professional experience servicing American licensed vehicles. Our legacy over the years is based on a client-centered approach. Our services range from transmission car repairs to engine tune-ups, brake services, suspension system maintenance, and everything in between.

    Does your car chug and lose power driving down the road? Contact or visit your local AAMCO Central Florida mechanics immediately; our able technicians will perform a diagnosis and recommend the necessary car repairs. Remember, ignoring such issues will not only lead to costly expenses but also risk the lives of the occupants of your car as well as other road users.

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