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problème de perte de puissance de voiture

Loss of power in your car: Common causes

Have you noticed a loss of power in your car’s engine? It can be frustrating, but it often has specific explanations. In this article, we’ll review the most common causes of a loss of power, and we’ll show you how to fix it to get your vehicle back to its optimal performance!

Why is your car lacking power?

Loss of power is not something to be taken lightly, as it can be a sign of engine failure. If left uncorrected, it can lead to costly repairs. So how do you know what’s wrong?

The most common causes fall into three broad categories:

  • A fuel supply problem.
  • A fault in the ignition system.
  • A lack of maintenance or faulty electronic components.

Keep in mind that a problem detected early is often much easier and cheaper to repair. That’s why it’s always a good idea to pay attention to the slightest signs your car is sending you!

Fuel deliveryy problems

Fuel delivery is a bit like your car’s circulatory system: If something impedes the flow, performance suffers immediately. Here are two potential culprits:

A clogged fuel filter

Did you know that the fuel filter acts as a barrier between your engine and the impurities found in gasoline? Over time, this filter can become clogged and limit the supply of fuel. Consequence: your engine fatigues.

Here are the signs to look out for:

  • Your engine stalls often.
  • Acceleration is sluggish or jerky.
  • You have difficulty starting, especially in cold weather.

Fortunately, a simple fuel filter replacement is often enough to fix the problem. Checking it regularly will prevent damage to other components.

A faulty fuel pump

If your car is feeling sluggish, especially when going up hills or during acceleration, the fuel pump could be the culprit. The fuel pump is essential for delivering gasoline to the engine, and it can wear out over time.

Signs to watch out for:

  • Car loss of power, especially at high speeds.
  • A jerk when you accelerate suddenly.

Here too, rapid intervention can save you from costly inconveniences. If you feel a persistent drop in performance, have your vehicle diagnosed by an expert.

Ignition system malfunctions

The ignition system is a central part of your engine: it generates the spark that allows the air-fuel mixture to burn and produce energy. If any part of the ignition system shows signs of weakness, your car’s performance will suffer.

Worn spark plugs

Spark plugs are wear parts, meaning they are components designed to gradually deteriorate and require regular replacement. Over time, they can accumulate deposits or erode, reducing their effectiveness. A poor spark results in incomplete combustion, resulting in a noticeable loss of engine power and increased fuel consumption.

What are the warning signs?

Faulty ignition coils

Ignition coils convert battery power into a voltage high enough to create the spark needed for combustion. A faulty coil reduces this power, causing the engine to misfire or lose efficiency.

How do you know if your ignition coils are bad?

  • Frequent misfires.
  • Loss of power when accelerating.

In such cases, it may happen that a check engine light comes on on the dashboard. A quick diagnostic at the garage can help you determine if the coil needs to be replaced.

Lack of air: another obstacle to performance

Your car’s engine needs as much air as fuel to function properly. A lack of oxygen due to a problem in the intake system can seriously affect combustion and, therefore, the engine’s power.

Dirty air filter

Did you know that the air filter acts as the “lungs” of your engine? The air filter keeps dust, debris and dirt out. But over time, it can become clogged and restrict the airflow that is vital for proper combustion.

Here are some signs that it’s time to check your air filter:

  • A decrease in acceleration, as if your car is having trouble “breathing”.
  • A louder engine noise, especially at full throttle.
  • A fuel consumption that climbs for no apparent reason.

Good news: changing an air filter is a quick and inexpensive operation! By taking care of this essential part, you not only ensure optimal performance, but also better fuel efficiency for your engine.

Mass air flow sensor malfunction

This sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps adjust the air-fuel mixture. When it is faulty, the engine receives incorrect data, resulting in inefficient combustion.

Signs your sensor might be at fault:

  • A loss of power at low revs.
  • Jerky or erratic acceleration.
  • A smell of unburned gasoline in the exhaust.

Cleaning the sensor may be sufficient, but if the problem persists, replacing it may be necessary.

Problems in the exhaust system

Clogged catalyst

The catalyst filters harmful gases before they are released into the atmosphere. Over time, it can become clogged with deposits, creating back pressure that limits engine performance.

Indicators of a clogged catalyst:

  • Loss of power, especially when going uphill or accelerating.
  • Excessive fuel consumption for no apparent reason.
  • Rotten egg smell due to poor combustion.

Electronic sensors: often underestimated allies

Throttle position sensor

The throttle sensor adjusts the air intake into the engine for optimum performance. When it is faulty, erratic acceleration or misfiring can occur.

What may alert you:

  • Hesitation or jerking when accelerating.
  • Progressive loss of power.

A quick recalibration or replacement at the garage is often enough to restore smoother driving.

Preventive maintenance: the key to avoiding power losses

We know that everyday life can be busy, and it’s easy to put off a trip to the garage. However, regular maintenance is your best friend in preserving your car’s performance and avoiding unnecessary expenses.

Preventive maintenance essentials:

  • Change engine oil regularly to prevent wear.
  • Check and replace filters (air, fuel, oil) as needed.
  • Inspect spark plugs and coils to ensure proper combustion.
  • Have electronic sensors tested for potential problems.

Are you noticing a loss of power in your car?

A loss of power in your car can have several causes, but a quick diagnosis and rigorous maintenance can minimize complications. At Trans-Mico Automotive, we specialize in repairing and maintaining vehicles to ensure their optimal performance.

For an accurate diagnosis and reliable solutions, contact us today!

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Sources : 

LE REFLET. La NHTSA enquête sur des pertes de puissance. [NHTSA investigates power loss.]. 2023.
MINISTÈRE DE L’ENVIRONNEMENT DU QUÉBEC. PIEVAL – Programme d’inspection et d’entretien des véhicules automobiles lourds. [PIEVAL – Heavy motor vehicle inspection and maintenance program].

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