You shouldn’t really feel your engine. Yes, you can feel its power, especially if you drive a V8 or turbo, but you shouldn’t feel it sputtering or stuttering. If your engine is not running smoothly, ER Auto Care warns that there is something wrong. Whether you notice the engine sputters when you step on the gas or while you’re driving along, here are seven reasons why your engine is cutting out.
1. Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system, and it is tasked with changing carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide before it is released through the tailpipe. If the catalytic converter gets clogged, exhaust may back up into the engine, and this will make the engine sputter.
2. Exhaust Leak
Your vehicle relies on the exhaust system to remove the exhaust gases out of the combustion chamber so fresh air and unburned fuel can be ignited. This is a continual process, and if you have an exhaust system leak, most commonly out of the exhaust manifold, your engine will sputter.
3. Fuel Injectors
The fuel injectors deliver the fuel to the combustion chamber where it can be set on fire. The most common problem with fuel injectors is they get clogged by carbon deposits. If your fuel injectors are clogged, your engine is not getting enough gasoline, and it will sputter and threaten to stall.
4. Mass Airflow Sensor
The mass airflow sensor measures how much air flows into your engine from the outside. Once the air is cleaned by the air filter, it travels to the combustion chamber to be ignited with the gas. If the mass airflow sensor is malfunctioning, it may allow too much air into the combustion chamber.
5. Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen being released in your vehicle’s exhaust. Along with the mass airflow sensor, if this part malfunctions, it may report incorrect oxygen levels and your vehicle’s engine control module will draw more air into the engine. This creates a lean fuel mixture where your vehicle is fuel-starved and the engine sputters.
6. Spark Plugs
The spark plugs are what ignite the air and fuel. They are controlled by the engine control module. If they are old and not firing properly, you could have multiple detonations in the combustion chamber that will make your engine sputter. A failing engine control module can also cause the spark plugs to misfire.
7. Vacuum Leak
Finally, your automobile relies on vacuum pressure to power accessories and components. A vacuum leak can cause the engine to sputter because the loss of vacuum pressure also causes power loss. ER Auto Care in Plain City, OH, can help with any of these things, so give us a call today to schedule an appointment.
