You are driving along and all of a sudden, your car’s engine starts to sputter. This has been happening a lot lately. What could be wrong? Central Auto Care advises that there are numerous problems that can make a car, truck, or utility vehicle’s engine sputter, especially at high speeds. Here’s what they are.
1. Clogged Catalytic Converter
When a catalytic converter is clogged, the vehicle’s exhaust makes its way back into the combustion chamber. This creates a problem with the engine’s combustion, and, as a consequence, your engine will sputter and struggle to run.
2. Fuel Delivery Problem
A fuel delivery problem caused by clogged fuel hoses, injectors, or a faulty fuel pump will also make your engine sputter. This is because there is not enough fuel making its way into the combustion chamber. Consequently, your engine will be fuel-starved.
3. Malfunctioning EVAP System
The EVAP control system makes certain your vehicle doesn’t harm the environment by releasing petrol vapours into it. If the EVAP control system malfunctions or fails completely, your engine will sputter and you will get a check engine warning.
4. Malfunctioning Computer Chip
The main computer chip in your automobile is called the engine control module or the engine control unit. If this chip malfunctions, your engine will sputter before it dies completely. Unfortunately, you will not get your engine running again until the chip is replaced.
5. Malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor
The mass airflow (MAF) sensor tracks the air inflow from the outside into the engine. When it malfunctions, it might convince the engine control unit that the combustion chamber needs more air when it doesn’t. This will make your engine sputter.
6. Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensor
Unfortunately, the same thing can happen with the oxygen (O2) sensor. Other problems that a malfunctioning O2 sensor can cause include a reduction in your vehicle’s fuel economy, black engine exhaust, and a surging engine if there is too much fuel in the combustion chamber.
7. Worn Spark Plugs/Wires
Finally, worn spark plugs or spark plug wires can also cause engine performance problems such as misfiring and sputtering. In severe cases, your car, truck, or utility vehicle may stall frequently, especially right after you start it. Replacing the worn plugs and wires usually solves the problem.
Call Central Auto Care in Okotoks, AB, today to schedule an appointment for your automobile if the engine is sputtering all the time. We will determine the exact problem and fix it.