What Causes the Car Throttle to Be Unstable and Jerky?
3 Answers
Car throttle instability and jerking can be caused by issues such as fuel pump failure, clogged fuel filter, blocked fuel injectors, or damaged spark plugs. The reasons for car throttle instability and jerking are as follows: 1. If the car experiences throttle instability and frequent jerking, it is likely due to fuel supply problems. Insufficient fuel pump pressure may lead to premature aging of the pump. In such cases, it is recommended to replace the fuel pump promptly. 2. A clogged or leaking fuel filter can also result in insufficient fuel supply, causing the throttle to jerk when pressed. It is advisable to replace the fuel filter for testing. The fuel filter's role is to remove impurities from the fuel, improving fuel quality and enhancing engine efficiency. It is recommended to replace the fuel filter every 1-2 years. 3. Blocked fuel injectors can lead to poor fuel atomization, potentially causing misfires in one or multiple cylinders. The engine may shake violently at idle or during acceleration. It is recommended to remove the fuel injectors and use professional testing equipment for diagnosis. 4. Damaged spark plugs or ignition coils can also result in poor car ignition, leading to unstable engine power output with frequent jerking. Spark plugs are prone to carbon buildup or aging over time, so regular replacement is advised.
The other day while driving, I also noticed the accelerator was surging, feeling like stepping on cotton, very uncomfortable. This is usually due to a problem with the fuel system, such as poor fuel flow or clogged fuel injectors. Unstable fuel pump pressure can also cause this. Additionally, worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils can lead to untimely ignition, causing the engine to shake. A dirty air filter or excessive carbon buildup in the throttle body can obstruct air intake, leading to shaking. Faulty electronic systems like a bad oxygen sensor can also send incorrect signals. I tried cleaning the filter, which helped a bit, but eventually, I took it to the repair shop for a check. They scanned it with tools and found carbon buildup in the throttle body. In my opinion, an unstable accelerator not only affects your mood but can also be dangerous, especially at high speeds. Get it checked as soon as possible to avoid damaging the engine.
As someone who frequently helps friends with car repairs, I believe unstable throttle response mostly stems from fuel or ignition issues. Insufficient fuel pump pressure causes uneven fuel supply, resulting in jerky acceleration. Clogged fuel injectors are also common, especially after using low-quality gasoline. Worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils in the ignition system can cause cylinder misfires, making the car jerk. I've also encountered dirty throttle bodies or sensor errors that cause the ECU to misjudge throttle opening. For DIY solutions, you can start by checking the spark plugs to see if they're blackened, but more complex issues require a shop diagnostic tool to read trouble codes. Don't ignore it - prolonged issues waste fuel and damage the engine, so address them promptly.
