What Causes the Delay in Acceleration When Pressing the Gas Pedal?
2 Answers
Here are the specific reasons for the delay in acceleration when pressing the gas pedal: 1. Incorrect engine oil level: When changing the engine oil, there is a specified standard. If too much oil is added, the crankshaft will operate with more difficulty, requiring greater power to push, resulting in sluggish acceleration. Excessive oil may also leak into the combustion chamber, leading to rapid oil consumption and engine carbon buildup, which harms the engine. If too little oil is added, parts won't receive sufficient lubrication, weakening power. Check the oil level with the dipstick and ensure it is slightly above the midpoint. This ensures proper engine lubrication without excessive pressure on the crankshaft. 2. Mismatch between engine oil and the engine: Different engines require different types of oil. If acceleration issues arise after an oil change, it may be due to incompatibility. Oil with excessively high viscosity makes the crankshaft harder to rotate, while oil that is too thin may cause engine noise. It is recommended to replace the oil again, following the oil specifications in the vehicle's manual. 3. Clogged oil filter or severe carbon buildup: When changing the oil, the oil filter should usually be replaced as well. If the filter is clogged and not replaced in time, oil will bypass through the relief valve, reducing vehicle power and increasing engine wear.
I've experienced slow acceleration after pressing the gas pedal in many cars, usually caused by a dirty throttle body or carbon buildup. The accumulated dirt affects air supply, resulting in delayed engine response. It could also be an issue with the fuel system, such as clogged fuel injectors or insufficient fuel pump pressure, where poor fuel delivery leads to weak acceleration. Another possibility is ignition system delay, where aging spark plugs fail to ignite at the right time, or the electronic control unit (ECU) might have a bug. Additionally, a clogged air filter or faulty idle valve can restrict air intake. I recommend first checking the air filter and fuel quality yourself—replace them if they're too old. Otherwise, it's best to take the car to a professional mechanic for system cleaning or ECU calibration. Delayed acceleration not only increases fuel consumption but may also affect overtaking safety.
