What causes the car to jerk when accelerating?

[Corbin]

Car jerking during acceleration can be caused by: 1. Poor coordination between the throttle and clutch during gear shifting; 2. Excessive engine carbon buildup; 3. Incomplete fuel combustion affecting power output; 4. Insufficient fuel pump pressure; 5. Clogged or leaking fuel filter. The throttle, also known as the accelerator pedal, primarily controls the opening of the engine's throttle valve to regulate power output. With the continuous development of automotive electronic technology, electronic throttles are becoming increasingly widespread. When a driver presses the electronic accelerator pedal, it essentially sends a throttle position sensor signal to the engine ECU.

[VonWyatt]

When repairing cars, I've seen many cases of unstable throttle response. Owners report that the car jerks back and forth when accelerating. The most common cause is fuel system issues, such as insufficient fuel pump power or clogged fuel filters restricting fuel flow. An aging fuel pump causes unstable fuel delivery, resulting in jerky acceleration. Dirty throttle position sensors or poor sensor contact can also cause the ECU to receive incorrect signals, leading to unresponsive throttle. Worn spark plugs or faulty ignition coils create unstable combustion, which is particularly noticeable during hard acceleration. I recommend first checking fuel pressure and the air filter. Additional reminder: using low-quality fuel increases carbon buildup, so regular fuel system cleaning can prevent issues. These faults, if left unrepaired, will affect fuel economy and safety. It's best to have a professional shop diagnose the specific problem with a scanner to avoid further damage.

[VonXavier]

When I drive, the car jerks during acceleration, which feels uncomfortable like a stutter. A quick check suggests it might be due to clogged fuel injectors or a dirty fuel filter, causing uneven fuel supply due to poor fuel flow. Another possibility is poor contact in the throttle pedal sensor wiring, leading to intermittent issues when pressing the pedal. Sometimes, a faulty mass airflow sensor can also cause this, making the ECU misjudge the air intake and leading to improper fuel supply. Always use quality gasoline and avoid cheap, low-grade fuel. Cleaning the fuel injectors and replacing the filter are not expensive. Ignoring this issue will make it worse over time and damage the engine. Getting it checked at a repair shop early can save a lot of money. Like people, cars need careful attention—regular maintenance can prevent many headaches.

[McElla]

If you notice jerking when accelerating during a self-inspection, first check if the air filter is clogged. A blockage prevents proper air intake and disrupts fuel supply—simply replacing it will fix the issue. Alternatively, worn-out spark plugs can cause unstable ignition and acceleration stuttering; replacing them yourself saves money. Cleaning carbon buildup in the fuel system, especially the injectors, is also effective. These DIY tasks aren't too difficult—online tutorials can guide you. Don't ignore these issues; minor problems can escalate if neglected.