Car Jerking While Accelerating

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None of us want a car that isn’t running at an optimal level. One of the most annoying things is when a car jerks when you hit the gas. But irritation aside, what causes such a problem? Is it likely to get worse and will it be expensive to get fixed?

These and other important questions are discussed below.

Jerking when Accelerating: common reasons

What causes jerking when accelerating?
Will it get worse?
Will it be expensive to fix?
What will happen if I ignore jerking when accelerating?

What causes jerking when accelerating?

There are many reasons a car might jerk when accelerating. Some of the most common include:

Blocked or dirty filters: Air filters and fuel filters need to be changed regularly—it’s usually done during a maintenance service. Their job is to catch pollutants and prevent them from entering deeper into the engine. However, these build up over time and this can cause poor acceleration. While they can be wiped off and cleaned, the best practice is to install new filters.
A blocked catalytic converter: If the air-fuel mix within the engine isn’t quite right, this might cause a blockage within the catalytic converter over time. There are cleaners available that may rectify the issue, but it doesn’t solve the root cause. Even if you suspect this is the case, it’s best to seek professional advice.
Worn spark plugs: As spark plugs age they lose the ability to ignite the fuel as quickly as they used to. This causes poor or jerky acceleration.
Defective carburetor: The carburetor controls the air-fuel mix that enters the engine. If it’s faulty, you’ll experience that telltale jerking as you hit the gas, as well as poor overall performance.
Engine blockage: If anything within the engine prevents the fuel’s smooth passage, the vehicle will be unable to accelerate as it should.
Dirty fuel injectors: This is by far the most likely reason for jerking when accelerating as it causes the engine to misfire. It can be noticed both during acceleration (when you’re moving or when you hit the gas pedal when stationary) or when you try to drive the car at a constant speed.

Other, less common, reasons include:

A faulty accelerator cable
Damaged cylinders
A damaged gas line
Moisture on the distributor cap

Will it get worse?

In a word, yes. Jerking when accelerating is a sign that all is not well within the engine. If you don’t get it sorted out then the problem will simply get worse until, eventually, serious damage might occur.

Will it be expensive to fix?

The sooner you get the problem repaired, the cheaper it will be. Some issues are relatively simple to fix. For instance, spark plugs, filters, and dirty fuel injectors are inexpensive and quick to put right.

Other issues, such as carburetor problems or damaged cylinders are likely to cost a bit more.

What if I ignore jerking when accelerating?

The rule here is that you ignore it at your peril. Not only will the problem get worse, but you’ll end up with a far higher repair bill. You can try a few DIY solutions if you’re handy beneath the hood, such as cleaning the fuel injectors or filters. However, getting a professional diagnosis and repair is the best way forward. That way, you know the problem will be sorted out once and for all and that your vehicle will continue to give you reliable motoring every time you get behind the wheel.

Whatever the Issue, Head to Autobahn of Boca for Expert and Great Value Car Diagnostics and Repair

At Autobahn, we love nothing more than a perfectly tuned vehicle. No matter whether your car is jerking when accelerating, has another issue, or needs regular servicing, there’s no better place to entrust your precious wheels.

We’re the provider of choice for the savviest luxury car owners in South Florida, thanks to our marque-trained technicians who work on some of the best cars on the road today. Porsche, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and VW drivers in the know trust us with their wheels—and for good reason… We offer the ultimate service at prices that main dealers simply can’t match.

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