Why does a car intermittently lose power for a few seconds?

[AdrielMarie]

The reasons why a car intermittently loses power for a few seconds are as follows: Damaged spark plugs: The engine's ignition system mainly consists of the ignition coil and spark plugs. Spark plugs are wear parts that need to be replaced regularly. If spark plugs are not replaced for a long time, the electrode gap will increase, which affects spark plug ignition. If spark plugs are not replaced for a long time, carbon deposits will also form on the electrodes, which also affects spark plug ignition. If spark plugs fail to ignite, the car will experience power interruption. Generator failure: When the engine is not started, the battery powers all electronic devices in the car. After starting the engine, the generator powers all electronic devices. Both the ignition system and fuel supply system require electricity to operate. If the generator fails, it will cause problems in the ignition system and fuel supply system, leading to power interruption while driving.

[MaverickLee]

I've experienced the car intermittently losing power for a few seconds several times. A few years ago, when I was driving my old car, it happened suddenly—the engine felt weak for a few seconds before returning to normal. The main culprit is usually the fuel system, such as a short circuit in the fuel pump or a clogged filter, causing unstable fuel pressure. Additionally, aging sensors or incorrect signals from the mass airflow sensor can mislead the ECU into adjusting the fuel injection improperly. If it happens during uphill climbs or acceleration, it might also be due to carbon buildup on the spark plugs causing ignition failure. I recommend checking the fuses and fuel pump connectors first, but avoid tampering with the electrical circuits yourself—get it diagnosed at a repair shop as soon as possible. Otherwise, if the power cuts out on the highway, it could be terrifying. Safety first.

[VonEvangeline]

When driving my own SUV, the power occasionally cuts out for a few seconds. I think the most common issue is ignition problems. Spark plugs that have been used for more than three years are prone to erosion, and the aging rubber seals on the ignition coils can lead to insulation failure under high temperatures. I've tried self-diagnosis: after starting the engine, listen for any unusual noises or vibrations—if present, it's likely an ignition system issue. Additionally, carbon buildup in the throttle body or a faulty throttle position sensor can confuse the intake data. It's best to use an OBD scanner to read the fault codes and not wait until the vehicle completely breaks down. After replacing the ignition coils, I haven't encountered the issue again. Regular maintenance of spark plugs is crucial to avoid being stranded on the road.

[SadieDella]

The sudden loss of vehicle power for a few seconds before recovery may be related to electronic control issues. For example, a dirty front oxygen sensor or a faulty MAP sensor can cause the ECU to receive incorrect intake pressure signals. Alternatively, CAN bus interference may lead to delays in module communication. After I upgraded the software, the problem occurred less frequently. Check the data stream yourself—if there are abnormal fluctuations, repair them early. Don’t overlook aging wiring harnesses, as they can easily affect other functions.

[AlejandroRose]

When driving a manual transmission car, the power intermittently drops for a few seconds. I suspect it's mostly a clutch issue. Worn pressure plates or leaking slave cylinders can cause poor engagement, especially noticeable when slipping during low-speed turns. For automatic transmissions, it could also be due to stuck shift valves or low oil pressure. My repair habit is to start with the simple things: first check the transmission fluid level, then inspect the sensor wiring, and avoid unnecessary disassembly. Addressing it early can prevent further damage, as power interruption is extremely dangerous.