Bring your car, truck, or C/SUV to Del Hatt Automotive right away if you are having problems with the engine’s performance. Constant sputtering is a sign that there is something wrong with the engine. We are going to list the common causes of a sputtering engine below. Do not worry. We can fix any of the problems that we have listed in this blog post.
Clogged Catalytic Converter
The combustion chamber pushes the exhaust into the exhaust manifold and it pushes the exhaust into the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter treats the exhaust so it is safe for the environment. Over time, the catalytic converter can get clogged and push the exhaust back into the manifold and combustion chamber. This will make your engine sputter.
Fuel-Delivery Problem
You may also have a problem with fuel delivery to the combustion chamber if the engine is sputtering all the time. For example, if your fuel pump is malfunctioning, it may not be sending enough fuel into the engine. Clogged fuel injectors or a clogged fuel filter can also prevent the fuel from making its way into the combustion chamber.
Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor
The fuel delivery problem could also be an indirect result of a faulty mass airflow sensor. Also called the MAF sensor, this part can send incorrect air inflow data to the engine control module and cause it to reduce the fuel in the combustion chamber when it didn’t need it. Unfortunately, the engine will become fuel-starved and sputter.
Faulty Oxygen Sensor
The same thing can happen if the oxygen sensor goes bad. The only difference is that the oxygen tracks the air in the exhaust rather than the air coming into the engine. A faulty O2 sensor can also make your engine sputter and reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy.
Engine Vacuum Leak
If you have a leaking vacuum hose in the engine, the engine will sputter because it is filling up with air. This creates a lean fuel mixture in the combustion chamber which causes the engine to be fuel-starved. Unfortunately, the engine will continue to sputter until you repair the vacuum leak.
Worn Spark Plugs
Finally, if your spark plugs are overdue for a replacement, they may start to misfire and cause the engine to sputter. You may also have problems with your engine stalling, especially when you are sitting at an idle.
Call Del Hatt Automotive in Poughkeepsie, NY, today to set up a service appointment if you are having engine performance problems with your automobile.
