Why does the car feel sluggish and stuffy?
2 Answers
Reasons why the car feels sluggish and stuffy: 1. Air intake pipe leakage causing excessively lean air-fuel mixture; 2. Weak high-voltage spark due to faulty spark plugs, igniters or high-voltage wires; 3. Poor operation of the exhaust gas recirculation system; 4. Malfunctions in components such as the air flow meter, intake manifold absolute pressure sensor, or throttle position sensor; 5. Turbocharging system failure; 6. Carbon buildup in cylinders, throttle, spark plugs, or intake pipes. If the car feels sluggish and you notice obvious steering wheel or body vibration when the vehicle is stationary, this indicates that at least one cylinder in the engine is not operating properly or has shut down.
I've been driving for many years and often encounter issues where the car lacks power and feels sluggish. The most common problem is a dirty air filter blocking the intake, preventing the engine from getting enough air, making it feel like the car is dragging its feet when climbing a hill. Another factor is the fuel system, such as a clogged fuel filter, which can cause the car to hesitate during acceleration, and if the cabin feels stuffy with the AC on for a long time, the filter might not have been cleaned properly. Old spark plugs can lead to poor ignition, making the car feel sluggish and weak when starting. The exhaust system, like a clogged catalytic converter, acts like wearing a mask, trapping exhaust gases and making the car feel even more stifled. It's recommended to simply check the filters yourself and replace them if necessary. Regular maintenance should include cleaning the throttle body to prevent carbon buildup, or else it might cause delays when you're out and about. If the problem persists, it's essential to visit a professional repair shop for diagnostics immediately to avoid safety hazards from driving with unresolved issues.
