You rely on your car’s engine to perform efficiently every time you drive your automobile. Unfortunately, there are several problems that can make the engine sputter and struggle to run. Miller Brothers Auto Repair is going to list nine problems below that will cause engine sputtering.
1. Clogged Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter treats engine exhaust before it exits the tailpipe. The catalytic converter can get clogged with carbon deposits. When this happens, the exhaust backs into the combustion chamber and prevents engine combustion. Consequently, your engine will sputter while you drive your automobile.
2. Clogged Air or Fuel Filter
The air filter needs to be changed every 12,000 miles in order to prevent it from becoming clogged. The fuel filter needs to be changed every 30,000 miles to prevent it from becoming clogged. If either of these filters is clogged, your engine will sputter and might even install.
3. Clogged Fuel System
Aside from a clogged fuel filter, other clogs in the fuel system can make your engine sputter because it isn’t getting enough fuel. Specifically, the fuel hoses are fuel injectors can get clogged and prohibit the introduction of fuel into the combustion chamber.
4. Faulty Fuel Pump
Another thing that will prohibit the introduction of fuel into the combustion chamber is a faulty fuel pump. When this part goes bad, which can happen after 100,000 miles, your engine will be starved for fuel and it will sputter every time you drive your automobile.
5. Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor
The mass airflow sensor will malfunction if it gets too dirty. Once this happens, it may indirectly cause an imbalance between the air and the fuel in the combustion chamber. If there is too much air in the chamber, your engine will sputter all the time.
6. Faulty Oxygen Sensor
The exact same thing can happen with the oxygen sensor. This sensor is designed to last about 100,000 miles before it needs to be replaced. If you have that many miles on the odometer and your engine is sputtering all the time, it’s possible you need a new oxygen sensor.
7. Exhaust System Leak
An exhaust system leak fills the engine with exhaust gases. When this happens, the balance of air and fuel is affected and your engine will sputter. It’s important to have an exhaust leak fixed as soon as possible because the exhaust might leak into the passenger cabin.
8. Vacuum Leak
An engine vacuum leak will also cause the engine to sputter because it fills the engine with air. Consequently, you end up with a lean fuel mixture in the combustion chamber that does not fire properly.
9. Worn Spark Plugs
Finally, worn spark plugs will make your engine sputter because they are misfiring. You may also have problems with frequent stalling until you get the spark plugs replaced.
Call Miller Brothers Auto Repair in Somerset, WI, today if your car’s engine is sputtering. We will find the problem and fix it.