{"id":43485,"date":"2021-09-02T02:49:44","date_gmt":"2021-09-02T09:49:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=43485"},"modified":"2026-02-10T22:27:59","modified_gmt":"2026-02-11T06:27:59","slug":"car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\/","title":{"rendered":"Car Hesitates When Accelerating: Causes and FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column43485_400725-41 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column43485_400725-41 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column43485_400725-41 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column43485_400725-41 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column43485_400725-41 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column43485_400725-41 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column43485_400725-41{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column43485_400725-41 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column43485_400725-41 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column43485_400725-41 inner-column-1 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-439c6d  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-f59ed7\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4 summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading43485_b8b1ee-b4\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A hesitating engine means that it&rsquo;s receiving insufficient power, misfiring, or stumbling.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Issues with the ignition system, fuel delivery, sensors, control modules, circuits, and vacuums can cause your vehicle to hesitate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using a scan tool or code reader is one of the first steps in diagnosing a hesitating engine.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Engine hesitation happens when your car lacks power, misfires, or stumbles when you press the gas pedal. The problem can make your vehicle nearly impossible to drive. What&rsquo;s more, the underlying cause of the issue can potentially damage other systems and components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So naturally, if your car is hesitating, you&rsquo;ll want to figure out why and fix the issue as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Does My Car Hesitate When I Accelerate? 7 Common Causes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to why your car might be suffering from an engine hesitation when accelerating. To find out why your vehicle is hesitating, you (or your mechanic) will need to do some troubleshooting. It&rsquo;s important to consult a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/why-you-should-always-consult-a-repair-manual\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"repair manual or repair database\">repair manual or repair database<\/a> to determine the correct diagnostic process for your application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Usually, you&rsquo;ll find one of the following issues to be the underlying cause of engine hesitation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ignition System Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/ignition-coil-for-spark-plug-of-the-car-ignition-system-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"ignition coil for spark plug of the car ignition system\" class=\"wp-image-43489\" style=\"width:1024px;height:768px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/ignition-coil-for-spark-plug-of-the-car-ignition-system-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/ignition-coil-for-spark-plug-of-the-car-ignition-system-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/ignition-coil-for-spark-plug-of-the-car-ignition-system-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/ignition-coil-for-spark-plug-of-the-car-ignition-system-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/ignition-coil-for-spark-plug-of-the-car-ignition-system-928x696.jpg 928w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/ignition-coil-for-spark-plug-of-the-car-ignition-system-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/ignition-coil-for-spark-plug-of-the-car-ignition-system.jpg 1700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A faulty ignition coil can cause the engine to misfire and hesitate under load.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The ignition system is responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture inside the engine to create the energy needed to propel your car down the road. Problems with the ignition system will often cause the engine to misfire and hesitate under load. Common issues include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Worn-out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/spark-plug\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"spark plugs\">spark plugs<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A faulty <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/ignition-coil\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"ignition coil\">ignition coil<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damaged or worn <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/spark-plug-wire\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"spark plug wires\">spark plug wires<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An issue with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/distributor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"distributor\">distributor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A bad <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/ignition-control-module\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"ignition control module\">ignition control module<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fuel Delivery Issues<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your car&rsquo;s engine needs a precise mixture of air and fuel to run properly. Hesitation can result from an engine that&rsquo;s running lean (not enough fuel). Some of the most common causes of fuel delivery issues include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bad <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/fuel-injector\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"fuel injectors\">fuel injectors<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A weak <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/fuel-pump\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"fuel pump\">fuel pump<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An obstructed <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/fuel-filter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"fuel filter\">fuel filter<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A faulty <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/fuel-pressure-regulator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"fuel pressure regulator\">fuel pressure regulator<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sensor Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Many different sensors can cause the engine to run lean and\/or misfire, resulting in a hesitation upon acceleration. Examples include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A faulty <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/mass-air-flow-sensor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"mass airflow (MAF) sensor\">mass airflow (MAF) sensor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A bad <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/bad-throttle-position-sensor-symptoms-what-you-need-to-know\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"throttle position (TP) sensor\">throttle position (TP) sensor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A failed <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/map-sensor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor\">manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Control Module Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"940\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/automobile-electronic-engine-control-unit-1024x940.jpg\" alt=\"automobile electronic engine control unit\" class=\"wp-image-43490\" style=\"width:1024px;height:940px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/automobile-electronic-engine-control-unit-1024x940.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/automobile-electronic-engine-control-unit-300x275.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/automobile-electronic-engine-control-unit-768x705.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/automobile-electronic-engine-control-unit-1536x1410.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/automobile-electronic-engine-control-unit-150x138.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/automobile-electronic-engine-control-unit.jpg 1700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Usually, when the module isn&rsquo;t working properly, the problem is due to software in need of an update.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Your car&rsquo;s engine sensors provide data to a computer, which is often referred to as the powertrain control module (PCM). The PCM then uses that information to control output devices, such as the ignition coils and fuel injectors. If the PCM is having problems, it&rsquo;s possible for the vehicle to hesitate under acceleration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind, however, that PCM failure is quite rare. Usually, when the module isn&rsquo;t working properly, the problem is due to software in need of an update, rather than an internal hardware failure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Circuit Issues<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>All of the electronics (sensors, modules, etc.) that govern the engine are connected by circuitry. Problems, such as damaged wires and loose connections, can prevent those circuits from working properly, resulting in a vehicle that hesitates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vacuum Leaks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A vacuum leak occurs when unmetered air enters the engine, leaning out the air-fuel mixture. The root cause of the problem could be anything from a leaking vacuum hose to a faulty <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/web-stories\/what-is-an-intake-manifold-gasket\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"intake manifold gasket\">intake manifold gasket<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"article-search-widget\">\n<div class=\"cp-search\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/w_auto,dpr_auto\/carparts\/logos\/badge_wordmark\/full_color\/CP_LOGO_COLOUR_RGB\" alt=\"CarParts.com\" width=\"300\" height=\"56\">\n<\/div>\n<form id=\"cpsearchform\" name=\"cpsearchform\" action=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/search\" method=\"get\" target=\"_blank\" accept-charset=\"character_set\" aria-label=\"search CarParts.com\">\n    <input type=\"text\" class=\"keyword\" name=\"q\" placeholder=\"Search for parts on CarParts.com\" value=\"\" aria-label=\"Search CarParts.com\"><input type=\"submit\" class=\"btn-search\" value=\"Search\" aria-label=\"Search\">\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Problems with Other Engine Management Systems and Components<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>But wait&mdash;that&rsquo;s not all. There are additional engine management systems and components that can also lead to hesitation. Some of the most common include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Problems with the variable valve timing (VVT) system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Issues with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excessive exhaust backpressure (often caused by an obstructed catalytic converter)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Problems with the throttle body<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Get Replacement Parts for Your Vehicle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Issues in different parts can make your car hesitate when accelerating. Whether it&rsquo;s problems in the ignition system or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/engine-control-module\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"control modules\">control modules<\/a>, make sure you fix or replace them as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Good thing it&rsquo;s easy to order high-quality replacement parts from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"CarParts.com\">CarParts.com<\/a>. Skip the hassle of visiting the auto parts shops in your area, and find replacement parts for your ride with just a few clicks on your phone or laptop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Enter your ride&rsquo;s year, make, and model into our vehicle selector to view compatible parts. You can also narrow down your search according to your preferred brand, price range, part type, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to restore your vehicle&rsquo;s seamless performance, we have you covered with our fast shipping. All our parts are on hand at strategically located warehouses, so you can get your order in just a few days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Replace faulty components right away for efficient acceleration. Explore our selection today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1653619226960\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How is Engine Hesitation Diagnosed? <\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Many different issues can cause a vehicle to hesitate while accelerating. Troubleshooting the problem requires a systematic, diagnostic strategy.<br><br>Most professionals will start by checking the vehicle for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/search-obd2-codes-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"diagnostic trouble codes\">diagnostic trouble codes<\/a> (DTCs) using a scan tool or code reader. Although the codes don&rsquo;t tell you exactly what&rsquo;s wrong with the car, they do provide insight as to where you should begin your troubleshooting process.<br><br>Usually, the next step is to review the vehicle&rsquo;s live data on a scan tool (code readers do not provide live data). When dealing with engine hesitation, one of the most important data parameters to view is short-term fuel trim (STFT).<br><br>An STFT reading that&rsquo;s greater than 10% (once the engine control system is in &ldquo;closed-loop&rdquo; mode) typically indicates the engine is running lean. On the other hand, a reading less than -10% means the engine is running rich. Having that information can help you narrow down the possible causes of a vehicle that&rsquo;s hesitating.<br><br>Where you go from there with your troubleshooting process will depend on what information you find during the first few steps of your inspection. For example, you may end up having to test sensors with a digital multimeter, use a fuel pressure gauge to check fuel pressure, or rely on a smoke machine to check for vacuum leaks.<br><br>Also, don&rsquo;t forget to perform a visual inspection. Look for obvious problems, such as damaged spark plug wires or broken vacuum lines. Repair whatever issues you find, clear any codes, and retest the vehicle.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Check Engine Codes with a Scan Tool\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/R4p55pvePeU?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1653619287388\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How Do You Fix a Car Hesitating or Jerking When Accelerating? <\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">To fix a car that&rsquo;s hesitating, you (or your mechanic) will need to troubleshoot the vehicle to determine what&rsquo;s causing the issue. Once you know the cause of the concern, you can perform the necessary repairs to fix the problem.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"shop-project\">\n\n    <h2>Shop this Project<\/h2>\n\n    <ul class=\"shop-project-list\">\n        \n        <li>\n            <div class=\"shop-project-item\">\n                <div class=\"stp-image-url\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/ignition-coil\/bosch\/set-bs0221504470\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label='&lt;img src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/set-bs0221504470_1\" alt=\"Bosch&reg; &ndash; SET-BS0221504470 Ignition Coils, Set Of 6, 6 Cylinder, 3.0L Engine, One Per Cylinder\" \/&gt;'><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/set-bs0221504470_1\" alt=\"Bosch&reg; &ndash; SET-BS0221504470 Ignition Coils, Set Of 6, 6 Cylinder, 3.0L Engine, One Per Cylinder\"><\/a>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"stp-desc\">\n                                            <p class=\"stp-title\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/ignition-coil\/bosch\/set-bs0221504470\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Bosch&reg; &ndash; SET-BS0221504470 Ignition Coils, Set Of 6, 6 Cylinder, 3.0L Engine, One Per Cylinder\">Bosch&reg; &ndash; SET-BS0221504470 Ignition Coils, Set Of 6, 6 Cylinder, 3.0L Engine, One Per Cylinder<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                    \n                    <div class=\"stp-stars\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/q_auto,dpr_auto,f_auto\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/shop-project\/stars\/star-0.svg\" alt=\"0 Stars\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-price\">$154.49<\/p>\n                    \n                    <p><small>Price and rating may change from the time content is published.<\/small><\/p>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-cta\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/ignition-coil\/bosch\/set-bs0221504470\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Shop Now\">Shop Now<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                                    <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n        \n        <li>\n            <div class=\"shop-project-item\">\n                <div class=\"stp-image-url\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/fuel-injector\/replacement\/repf314302\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label='&lt;img src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repf314302_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; Fuel Injector, with Red Connector\" \/&gt;'><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repf314302_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; Fuel Injector, with Red Connector\"><\/a>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"stp-desc\">\n                                            <p class=\"stp-title\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/fuel-injector\/replacement\/repf314302\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Replacement &ndash; Fuel Injector, with Red Connector\">Replacement &ndash; Fuel Injector, with Red Connector<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                    \n                    <div class=\"stp-stars\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/q_auto,dpr_auto,f_auto\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/shop-project\/stars\/star-4.5.svg\" alt=\"4.5 Stars\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-price\">$22.99<\/p>\n                    \n                    <p><small>Price and rating may change from the time content is published.<\/small><\/p>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-cta\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/fuel-injector\/replacement\/repf314302\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Shop Now\">Shop Now<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                                    <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n        \n        <li>\n            <div class=\"shop-project-item\">\n                <div class=\"stp-image-url\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/fuel-filter\/replacement\/repv670502\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label='&lt;img src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repv670502_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; Fuel Filter, With Engine Flange\" \/&gt;'><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repv670502_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; Fuel Filter, With Engine Flange\"><\/a>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"stp-desc\">\n                                            <p class=\"stp-title\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/fuel-filter\/replacement\/repv670502\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Replacement &ndash; Fuel Filter, With Engine Flange\">Replacement &ndash; Fuel Filter, With Engine Flange<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                    \n                    <div class=\"stp-stars\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/q_auto,dpr_auto,f_auto\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/shop-project\/stars\/star-4.5.svg\" alt=\"4.5 Stars\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-price\">$32.99<\/p>\n                    \n                    <p><small>Price and rating may change from the time content is published.<\/small><\/p>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-cta\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/fuel-filter\/replacement\/repv670502\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Shop Now\">Shop Now<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                                    <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n        \n        <li>\n            <div class=\"shop-project-item\">\n                <div class=\"stp-image-url\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/fuel-pressure-regulator\/replacement\/repc318110\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label='&lt;img src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repc318110_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; Fuel Pressure Regulator\" \/&gt;'><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repc318110_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; Fuel Pressure Regulator\"><\/a>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"stp-desc\">\n                                            <p class=\"stp-title\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/fuel-pressure-regulator\/replacement\/repc318110\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Replacement &ndash; Fuel Pressure Regulator\">Replacement &ndash; Fuel Pressure Regulator<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                    \n                    <div class=\"stp-stars\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/q_auto,dpr_auto,f_auto\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/shop-project\/stars\/star-4.5.svg\" alt=\"4.5 Stars\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-price\">$12.99<\/p>\n                    \n                    <p><small>Price and rating may change from the time content is published.<\/small><\/p>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-cta\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/fuel-pressure-regulator\/replacement\/repc318110\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Shop Now\">Shop Now<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                                    <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n        \n        <li>\n            <div class=\"shop-project-item\">\n                <div class=\"stp-image-url\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/mass-air-flow-sensor\/drivewire\/repl316708\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label='&lt;img src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/images\/repl316708_3\" alt=\"DriveWire &ndash; Mass Air Flow Sensor, 4\/6\/8 Cyl. Engines, Sensor Only\" \/&gt;'><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/images\/repl316708_3\" alt=\"DriveWire &ndash; Mass Air Flow Sensor, 4\/6\/8 Cyl. Engines, Sensor Only\"><\/a>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"stp-desc\">\n                                            <p class=\"stp-title\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/mass-air-flow-sensor\/drivewire\/repl316708\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"DriveWire &ndash; Mass Air Flow Sensor, 4\/6\/8 Cyl. Engines, Sensor Only\">DriveWire &ndash; Mass Air Flow Sensor, 4\/6\/8 Cyl. Engines, Sensor Only<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                    \n                    <div class=\"stp-stars\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/q_auto,dpr_auto,f_auto\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/shop-project\/stars\/star-4.5.svg\" alt=\"4.5 Stars\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-price\">$34.99<\/p>\n                    \n                    <p><small>Price and rating may change from the time content is published.<\/small><\/p>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-cta\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/mass-air-flow-sensor\/drivewire\/repl316708\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Shop Now\">Shop Now<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                                    <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n        \n        <li>\n            <div class=\"shop-project-item\">\n                <div class=\"stp-image-url\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/map-sensor\/replacement\/repk315201\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label='&lt;img src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repk315201_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; MAP Sensor\" \/&gt;'><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repk315201_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; MAP Sensor\"><\/a>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"stp-desc\">\n                                            <p class=\"stp-title\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/map-sensor\/replacement\/repk315201\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Replacement &ndash; MAP Sensor\">Replacement &ndash; MAP Sensor<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                    \n                    <div class=\"stp-stars\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/q_auto,dpr_auto,f_auto\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/shop-project\/stars\/star-4.5.svg\" alt=\"4.5 Stars\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-price\">$12.99<\/p>\n                    \n                    <p><small>Price and rating may change from the time content is published.<\/small><\/p>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-cta\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/map-sensor\/replacement\/repk315201\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Shop Now\">Shop Now<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                                    <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n        \n        <li>\n            <div class=\"shop-project-item\">\n                <div class=\"stp-image-url\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/throttle-position-sensor\/replacement\/repb314209\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label='&lt;img src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repb314209_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; Throttle Position Sensor\" \/&gt;'><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/images\/repb314209_1\" alt=\"Replacement &ndash; Throttle Position Sensor\"><\/a>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"stp-desc\">\n                                            <p class=\"stp-title\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/throttle-position-sensor\/replacement\/repb314209\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Replacement &ndash; Throttle Position Sensor\">Replacement &ndash; Throttle Position Sensor<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                    \n                    <div class=\"stp-stars\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/q_auto,dpr_auto,f_auto\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/shop-project\/stars\/star-4.5.svg\" alt=\"4.5 Stars\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-price\">$17.99<\/p>\n                    \n                    <p><small>Price and rating may change from the time content is published.<\/small><\/p>\n\n                                            <p class=\"stp-cta\">\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/details\/throttle-position-sensor\/replacement\/repb314209\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Shop Now\">Shop Now<\/a>\n                        <\/p>\n                                    <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n            <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Engine hesitation happens when your car lacks power, misfires, or stumbles when you press the gas pedal. The problem can&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1643,"featured_media":43503,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52,3743],"tags":[302,1199,1185,1065,1197,1169,3008,1355,1462,1171,1035,1679],"ppma_author":[2622],"class_list":{"0":"post-43485","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-diy","8":"category-maintenance","9":"tag-distributor","10":"tag-fuel-filter-2","11":"tag-fuel-injector-2","12":"tag-fuel-pressure-regulator","13":"tag-fuel-pump-2","14":"tag-ignition-coil-2","15":"tag-ignition-control-module","16":"tag-map-sensor-2","17":"tag-mass-air-flow-sensor-2","18":"tag-spark-plug-2","19":"tag-spark-plug-wire","20":"tag-throttle-position-sensor","21":"entry"},"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Car Hesitates When Accelerating: Causes and FAQ - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Engine hesitation can make your vehicle nearly impossible to drive. Learn its common causes and what to do in this comprehensive guide.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Car Hesitates When Accelerating: Causes and FAQ - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Engine hesitation can make your vehicle nearly impossible to drive. Learn its common causes and what to do in this comprehensive guide.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2021-09-02T09:49:44+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-02-11T06:27:59+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/car-performing-acceleration.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1700\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1133\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Mia Bevacqua, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@carpartscom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Mia Bevacqua, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/\"},\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"$id\":\"1643\",\"name\":\"Mia Bevacqua\",\"jobTitle\":\"ASE Master Automobile Technician\",\"description\":\"Mia Bevacqua has over 14 years of experience in the auto industry and holds a bachelor\u2019s degree in Advanced Automotive Systems. Certifications include ASE Master Automobile Technician, Master Medium\\\/Heavy Truck Technician, L1, L2, L3, and L4 Advanced Level Specialist. Mia loves fixer-upper oddballs, like her 1987 Cavalier Z-24 and 1998 Astro Van AWD.\",\"knowsAbout\":\"Auto Repair, Car Maintenance, Auto Parts, Car Reviews\",\"publishingPrinciples\":\"\\\/blog\\\/our-team\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/miabevacqua\",\"sameAs\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/in\\\/mia-bevacqua-55b3a485\"}],\"headline\":\"Car Hesitates When Accelerating: Causes and FAQ\",\"datePublished\":\"2021-09-02T09:49:44+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-11T06:27:59+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1134,\"commentCount\":2,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2021\\\/08\\\/car-performing-acceleration.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"distributor\",\"fuel-filter\",\"fuel-injector\",\"fuel-pressure-regulator\",\"fuel-pump\",\"ignition-coil\",\"ignition-control-module\",\"map-sensor\",\"mass-air-flow-sensor\",\"spark-plug\",\"spark-plug-wire\",\"throttle-position-sensor\"],\"articleSection\":[\"DIY\",\"Maintenance\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/\",\"name\":\"Car Hesitates When Accelerating: Causes and FAQ - In The Garage with CarParts.com\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2021\\\/08\\\/car-performing-acceleration.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2021-09-02T09:49:44+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-02-11T06:27:59+00:00\",\"description\":\"Engine hesitation can make your vehicle nearly impossible to drive. Learn its common causes and what to do in this comprehensive guide.\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653619226960\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653619287388\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2021\\\/08\\\/car-performing-acceleration.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2021\\\/08\\\/car-performing-acceleration.jpg\",\"width\":1700,\"height\":1133,\"caption\":\"car performing acceleration\"},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"In The Garage with CarParts.com\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"CarParts.com\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/cp-itg-logo.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/cp-itg-logo.png\",\"width\":2048,\"height\":398,\"caption\":\"CarParts.com\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/carpartscom\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/carpartscom\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/carpartscom\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/@CarPartscomOfficial\\\/\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/24fe92f285c72928a6fcb1acb4120275\",\"name\":\"Mia Bevacqua\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2021\\\/11\\\/mia-bevacqua-chief-mechanic.png941b63fd087354398e10f659516b809a\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2021\\\/11\\\/mia-bevacqua-chief-mechanic.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2021\\\/11\\\/mia-bevacqua-chief-mechanic.png\",\"caption\":\"Mia Bevacqua\"},\"description\":\"Mia Bevacqua has over 14 years of experience in the auto industry and holds a bachelor\u2019s degree in Advanced Automotive Systems. Certifications include ASE Master Automobile Technician, Master Medium\\\/Heavy Truck Technician, L1, L2, L3, and L4 Advanced Level Specialist. Mia loves fixer-upper oddballs, like her 1987 Cavalier Z-24 and 1998 Astro Van AWD.\",\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/miabevacqua\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/in\\\/mia-bevacqua-55b3a485\"],\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/miabevacqua\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653619226960\",\"position\":1,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653619226960\",\"name\":\"How is Engine Hesitation Diagnosed?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Many different issues can cause a vehicle to hesitate while accelerating. Troubleshooting the problem requires a systematic, diagnostic strategy.<br\\\/><br\\\/>Most professionals will start by checking the vehicle for <a href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/search-obd2-codes-list\\\/\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noreferrer noopener\\\">diagnostic trouble codes<\\\/a> (DTCs) using a scan tool or code reader. Although the codes don\u2019t tell you exactly what\u2019s wrong with the car, they do provide insight as to where you should begin your troubleshooting process.<br\\\/><br\\\/>Usually, the next step is to review the vehicle\u2019s live data on a scan tool (code readers do not provide live data). When dealing with engine hesitation, one of the most important data parameters to view is short-term fuel trim (STFT).<br\\\/><br\\\/>An STFT reading that\u2019s greater than 10% (once the engine control system is in \\\"closed-loop\\\" mode) typically indicates the engine is running lean. On the other hand, a reading less than -10% means the engine is running rich. Having that information can help you narrow down the possible causes of a vehicle that\u2019s hesitating.<br\\\/><br\\\/>Where you go from there with your troubleshooting process will depend on what information you find during the first few steps of your inspection. For example, you may end up having to test sensors with a digital multimeter, use a fuel pressure gauge to check fuel pressure, or rely on a smoke machine to check for vacuum leaks.<br\\\/><br\\\/>Also, don\u2019t forget to perform a visual inspection. Look for obvious problems, such as damaged spark plug wires or broken vacuum lines. Repair whatever issues you find, clear any codes, and retest the vehicle.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653619287388\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.carparts.com\\\/blog\\\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\\\/#faq-question-1653619287388\",\"name\":\"How Do You Fix a Car Hesitating or Jerking When Accelerating?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"To fix a car that\u2019s hesitating, you (or your mechanic) will need to troubleshoot the vehicle to determine what\u2019s causing the issue. 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Certifications include ASE Master Automobile Technician, Master Medium\/Heavy Truck Technician, L1, L2, L3, and L4 Advanced Level Specialist. Mia loves fixer-upper oddballs, like her 1987 Cavalier Z-24 and 1998 Astro Van AWD.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/author\/miabevacqua","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/mia-bevacqua-55b3a485"],"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/author\/miabevacqua\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\/#faq-question-1653619226960","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/car-hesitates-when-accelerating-causes-and-faq\/#faq-question-1653619226960","name":"How is Engine Hesitation Diagnosed?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Many different issues can cause a vehicle to hesitate while accelerating. Troubleshooting the problem requires a systematic, diagnostic strategy.<br\/><br\/>Most professionals will start by checking the vehicle for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/search-obd2-codes-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">diagnostic trouble codes<\/a> (DTCs) using a scan tool or code reader. Although the codes don\u2019t tell you exactly what\u2019s wrong with the car, they do provide insight as to where you should begin your troubleshooting process.<br\/><br\/>Usually, the next step is to review the vehicle\u2019s live data on a scan tool (code readers do not provide live data). When dealing with engine hesitation, one of the most important data parameters to view is short-term fuel trim (STFT).<br\/><br\/>An STFT reading that\u2019s greater than 10% (once the engine control system is in \"closed-loop\" mode) typically indicates the engine is running lean. On the other hand, a reading less than -10% means the engine is running rich. Having that information can help you narrow down the possible causes of a vehicle that\u2019s hesitating.<br\/><br\/>Where you go from there with your troubleshooting process will depend on what information you find during the first few steps of your inspection. For example, you may end up having to test sensors with a digital multimeter, use a fuel pressure gauge to check fuel pressure, or rely on a smoke machine to check for vacuum leaks.<br\/><br\/>Also, don\u2019t forget to perform a visual inspection. Look for obvious problems, such as damaged spark plug wires or broken vacuum lines. 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Once you know the cause of the concern, you can perform the necessary repairs to fix the problem.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/car-performing-acceleration.jpg","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/car-performing-acceleration.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Mia Bevacqua, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician","author_link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/author\/miabevacqua\/"},"authors":[{"term_id":2622,"user_id":1643,"is_guest":0,"slug":"miabevacqua","display_name":"Mia Bevacqua, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/mia-bevacqua-chief-mechanic.png","url2x":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/mia-bevacqua-chief-mechanic.png"},"0":null,"1":"","2":"","3":"","4":"","5":"","6":"","7":"","8":""}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43485","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1643"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=43485"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43485\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/43503"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=43485"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=43485"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=43485"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=43485"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}