What Are the Reasons for Increased Car Fuel Consumption and Lack of Acceleration Power?

[McColeman]

Car fuel consumption increase and lack of acceleration power may be caused by fuel system malfunctions, intake system issues, or carbon buildup in the engine. Below is a detailed explanation regarding a car's fuel consumption per 100 kilometers: 1. Overview: Fuel consumption per 100 kilometers refers to the amount of fuel a vehicle consumes when driving at a certain speed for 100 kilometers on the road. It is a theoretical indicator of the vehicle. The fuel consumption per 100 kilometers is measured by manufacturers in an objective environment using a dynamometer installed on the vehicle's chassis, converting the measured values into speed parameters, then calculating the theoretical experimental fuel consumption data for the vehicle model at specified speeds. 2. Others: Since most vehicles approach their most economical speed at 90 kilometers per hour, the theoretical fuel consumption figures publicly announced are usually the fuel consumption per 100 kilometers at 90 kilometers per hour.

[ArcherAnn]

Last year, I experienced a sudden surge in fuel consumption and a noticeable lack of power in my car, which was really frustrating. After inspection, it turned out that the spark plugs had aged, causing incomplete ignition and a significant drop in combustion efficiency. The air filter was clogged like a piece of cardboard, restricting airflow and forcing the engine to work under strain. I also found that the tire pressure was severely low, increasing rolling resistance and making every press of the accelerator burn more fuel. Even more annoying was the oxygen sensor being coated with carbon deposits, causing the ECU to miscalculate the fuel injection, resulting in a fuel mixture as thick as porridge. Finally, I had to replace the exhaust gas recirculation valve to fix the issue—carbon buildup had jammed it, interfering with combustion. I recommend everyone pay close attention to these areas and not wait until the car starts shaking during acceleration like I did.

[Christian]

From a maintenance perspective, high fuel consumption coupled with poor acceleration typically points to several system issues. The ignition system is the primary suspect - leaking ignition coils or incorrect spark plug gaps directly affect combustion efficiency. For the intake/exhaust system, check the air filter condition and throttle valve opening; I've seen countless stuck throttle valves causing abnormal air intake. The fuel system requires attention to injector atomization and fuel pump pressure - poor fuel injection is like a person struggling to breathe. Sensor failures are particularly troublesome; a faulty front oxygen sensor can cause the ECU to erroneously increase fuel injection pulse width. Don't overlook catalytic converter blockages in the exhaust system, which can cause exhaust backpressure to surge sharply. Electrical system malfunctions, such as inaccurate manifold absolute pressure sensors, can also make the computer miscalculate air intake. It's recommended to first read trouble codes with a diagnostic tool before systematically troubleshooting each component.

[DerekLee]

With over 20 years of driving experience, I've learned that sudden fuel consumption spikes and power loss are mostly caused by carbon buildup. A blackened layer on the back of the throttle body restricts airflow, prompting the ECU to compensate with extra fuel injection. Carbon deposits on fuel injectors impair atomization, creating larger fuel droplets that burn slower. Combustion chamber carbon is even worse - it alters compression ratios and reduces power output. Don't overlook exhaust restrictions either; a clogged catalytic converter is like running while pinching your nose. And remember basic oil maintenance - incorrect viscosity or overdue changes increase engine resistance. Developing a habit of occasional high-RPM driving helps delay carbon accumulation, saving you from costly disassembly cleaning.