When your car’s engine starts sputtering, it can be frustrating. It might seem like there’s nothing you can do to fix the problem, but there are actually several things you can do to troubleshoot and fix the issue. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the common causes of car engine sputtering and how to fix them.
What Causes an Engine to Sputter?
If you hear your car engine sputtering, there’s a good chance it’s because of a problem with the fuel system. Here’s a look at some of the most common causes and how to fix them.
1. Dirty Air Filter: The air filter is designed to trap dirt, dust, and other particles that could potentially clog the engine. If the filter isn’t clean, all that dirt and debris will be sucked into the engine and cause problems. To clean it, remove the air filter cover and use a vacuum cleaner to suction onto the filter and pull. Be sure to replace the air filter when you do this.
2. Defective Fuel Injection Pump: A defective fuel injection pump can cause an engine to sputter and hesitate. To check if this is the case, remove the fuel injection pump cover and examine it for signs of damage or wear. If you find any problems, replace the fuel injection pump as soon as possible.
3. Damaged Gasoline Tank: If the gasoline tank is damaged, it can cause an engine to sputter and hesitate. To test if this is the case, fill a small container with gasoline and pour.
How to Fix an Engine That Sputters
If you notice that your engine is sputtering or losing power, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the issue. First, make sure that the fuel injectors are functioning properly by checking for leaks and clogged nozzles. If the injectors are damaged or not functioning properly, the engine may struggle to get enough oxygen and fuel to run smoothly. If the problem is with the fuel supply, it may be necessary to replace the fuel pump or filter. Finally, if none of these solutions work, it may be time to take your car into a mechanic for a more extensive inspection.
Conclusion
It sounds like your car’s engine may be sputtering due to a lack of fuel. If you can narrow down the cause, you might be able to get it fixed without having to take it into a mechanic. Follow these five tips to help troubleshoot your engine sputtering:
1. Check the air pressure in your tires – High air pressure can lead to poor performance and even engine sputtering. Make sure all four of your tires are at roughly the same pressure by checking them with a gauge or using a compressor.
2. Test your spark plugs – If there is something blocking the sparkplug from firing, this will cause an issue with ignition and likely result in poor engine performance as well. Remove any obstructions from the sparkplug path and test again.
3. Check for oil leaks – Leaks can cause low oil levels, which in turn will affect how your engine operates and could even lead toEngine sputtering