What causes the Buick Excelle to have weak acceleration and jerking during sudden acceleration?
3 Answers
The reasons for the Buick Excelle's weak acceleration and jerking during sudden acceleration are ignition coil failure and spark plug failure. When a cylinder misfires, the gasoline and air mixture in that cylinder cannot be ignited and will be expelled through the exhaust pipe. Spark plugs ignite gasoline by producing sparks and largely determine the engine's performance. Ignition coil failure: The corresponding cylinder of the faulty ignition coil will not work, causing idle vibration, weak throttle response, inability to accelerate, and the malfunction indicator light to turn on. If the ignition coil leaks electricity, the engine may or may not vibrate at idle, but it will definitely vibrate and lose power when accelerating. Sometimes, power interruption during acceleration causes weak acceleration and shaking. When a cylinder misfires, the gasoline and air mixture in that cylinder cannot be ignited and will be expelled through the exhaust pipe. However, since the exhaust pipe temperature is very high, the mixture will combust upon reaching the exhaust pipe due to the high temperature. This combustion generates a large amount of heat, which can clog the catalytic converter's pores, leading to catalytic converter failure. Additionally, a damaged ignition coil can cause severe engine vibration, making the car feel powerless like a tractor when accelerating; shaking and inability to shift into higher gears; the malfunction light will turn on: the car jerks backward when accelerating, then surges forward, the engine sputters, idles roughly, and the exhaust emits a strong gasoline smell. Spark plug failure: Common spark plug issues include carbon buildup, which reduces the mixture concentration in the car, leading to incomplete combustion and insufficient power. Another issue is the widening of the gap between spark plugs, which decreases engine efficiency. Spark plugs ignite gasoline by producing sparks and largely determine the engine's performance. Based on heat range, they can be classified as cold-type or hot-type spark plugs. Based on electrode material, they can be categorized as silver alloy or platinum alloy spark plugs. The most commonly used type in cars is the standard spark plug. Generally, spark plugs should be replaced every 60,000 kilometers. When they fail, the car may not start or have difficulty starting, requiring prompt repair.
I also experienced lack of power during acceleration and jerking when accelerating hard in my Buick Excelle, which is quite common. Possible causes include a clogged fuel filter preventing proper fuel delivery, or worn-out spark plugs causing ignition issues. The jerking during hard acceleration is often due to faulty ignition coils or transmission control module problems. Carbon buildup in the intake manifold can also restrict airflow, leading to power loss. I recommend first checking simple things like replacing spark plugs or cleaning carbon deposits. If that doesn't solve it, find a good shop to check professional diagnostic readings. Don't delay too long to avoid engine damage - this issue affects driving safety and can be dangerous when overtaking on highways.
My Excelle also used to have sluggish acceleration, jerking like being held back when stomping on the gas pedal. I suspected ignition system issues. Later I found that when spark plugs age or coils get damaged, the engine can't keep up with fuel pressure changes, causing sudden power loss. Just like my friend's car - his problem was solved by replacing the air filter. It could also be unstable fuel pump pressure or faulty sensor signals making the ECU respond slowly during sudden acceleration. Check for loose connectors before spending big on repairs. This issue gets worse in cold weather - after driving a few kilometers you'll notice abnormal engine noise. Address it promptly for peace of mind.
