Why Is My Car Not Accelerating Properly?

One of our service department's most typical concerns at Honda of Fort Worth is why someone's vehicle isn't accelerating properly. The reasons are usually one of the following.

1. Dirty or Defective Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF) or Oxygen Sensor

If either of these becomes dirty or malfunctions, it will prevent the air-fuel mixture from being monitored correctly, causing overall vehicle performance to downgrade. When the mass airflow sensor is affected, it often sends the wrong data to the engine to calculate the air-fuel mixture. Both problems can cause our check engine light to illuminate. Engines need a proper amount of air-fuel mixture to operate efficiently. When this ratio doesn't happen, your vehicle will have no idea of what is occurring and will slow down, even when you press heavily on the accelerator.

2. Malfunctioning Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

This sensor monitors the throttle valve opening and tell's your engine's computer how it should adjust. When the TPS malfunctions, the accelerator pedal cannot control the engine speed, allowing it to increase or decrease on its own. A malfunctioning TPS will result in degraded vehicle performance.

3. Clogged Fuel Filter

Replace your fuel filters frequently because they can cause lots of problems when they become clogged. The fuel filter presents dirt, debris, and sludge from entering your engine. When those substances build up in the filter, acceleration can feel sluggish. Replacing the filter will easily correct this issue.

4. Dirty Air Filters

Replace your engine air filter at the intervals recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. A dirty air filter can also affect performance by not allowing enough air to reach the engine. The lack of air will not allow the engine to operate correctly, which is why you should change it frequently, according to the intervals recommended by your owner's manual.

Several other reasons may be behind your vehicle on accelerating properly. The Honda of Fort Worth service staff will be happy to discuss possible reasons and then inspect your vehicle to find the specific cause. We're here to address any vehicle maintenance concerns.