Why does the car feel powerless when stepping on the accelerator and can't gain speed?

2 Answers
MacDante
09/06/25 2:25am
When the car's accelerator is pressed but the speed doesn't increase while the RPM rises, this indicates significant energy loss in the power transmission between the engine and transmission. Here are the specific explanations: 1. Manual Transmission: If it's a manual transmission, the primary cause of this situation is likely issues with the clutch or transmission. The clutch serves as the intermediary for power transmission between the engine and transmission. If the clutch friction plates are slipping, power loss will occur. Manual transmissions have high transmission efficiency, so if the clutch is functioning properly, possible faults could be output shaft issues or gear engagement problems. 2. Automatic Transmission: Unlike manual transmissions, automatic transmissions have a maximum transmission efficiency of about 90%, which increases slightly when the lock-up clutch is engaged. Automatic transmissions contain a torque converter that functions similarly to a clutch. During power transmission, the engine's flywheel drives the impeller to rotate, creating vortex flow that moves the turbine. Since the turbine is connected to the transmission output shaft, if there's insufficient power output, this component is most likely the cause. Additionally, slipping shift actuators could also be responsible for the malfunction.
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McKai
09/18/25 2:29am
I recently encountered a similar issue where my car felt particularly sluggish when accelerating, and the speed wouldn't pick up properly. I found it quite frustrating. There could be several possible reasons for this, with the most common being problems in the fuel system, such as an aging fuel pump not providing enough pressure or clogged fuel injectors disrupting fuel delivery. Additionally, a dirty air filter can restrict air intake, and without sufficient air, the engine naturally lacks power. Issues in the ignition system, like worn-out spark plugs or faulty coils, can also lead to poor combustion and reduced performance. If the throttle body is too dirty and gets stuck, it will respond slowly to acceleration, especially noticeable in electronically controlled throttle systems. A clogged exhaust system can also hinder performance by preventing proper exhaust gas flow. Personally, I recommend first checking the air filter and spark plugs—these are relatively easy to replace on your own. If the problem persists, it's best to take the car to a repair shop for a proper diagnosis to avoid prolonged issues that could affect driving safety.
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