Why does the van not accelerate and make a sputtering sound?

[MacSpencer]

When a van cannot accelerate and makes a sputtering sound, it is usually caused by an engine misfire. Below is an introduction to engine misfires: 1. Overview: An engine misfire refers to a fault in the engine that leads to insufficient power, resulting in a lack of power, where a few cylinders out of the total number of cylinders are not working. An engine misfire can shorten the oil change interval, easily cause sudden stalling, increase fuel consumption, produce black smoke, and result in a loss of power. 2. Causes: The main causes of engine misfires stem from the ignition system and the fuel injection system. If the contacts in the distributor cap of the ignition system are severely eroded, it can cause spark jumping, mostly occurring between the corresponding terminals on the cap. The idle speed fluctuates severely, power drops significantly, and the vehicle feels like it is suffering from a severe asthma attack.

[FernandoRose]

A while ago, my van had the same issue while driving—lack of power when accelerating and making a sputtering noise. It was really annoying, and there could be several possible causes. For example, if the spark plugs are worn out and fail to ignite properly, it can cause the sputtering sound; if the fuel injectors are clogged and fuel supply is insufficient, the car won’t accelerate well; or if the air filter is too dirty, inadequate air intake can affect combustion. Another possibility is insufficient fuel pump pressure, preventing gasoline from being delivered properly. Poor wiring connections or faulty sensors, like the oxygen sensor, might also cause the ECU to incorrectly adjust the air-fuel mixture. I found that the most straightforward solution is to try replacing the spark plugs first—it’s inexpensive and easy to do. If the problem is severe, don’t delay—take it to a repair shop for a computer diagnostic check, which can save money and ensure safety. For prevention, regularly inspect the spark plugs and air filter every 20,000 kilometers to keep the car more durable.

[LeahFitz]

I often help friends with car repairs. The most common causes of a van's lack of power and stuttering are ignition system issues. If the spark plugs are carbon-fouled or damaged, unstable ignition causes the stuttering sound. Clogged fuel injectors disrupt proper fuel spray, making acceleration difficult. A simple DIY fix is replacing the spark plugs. If unsure, check the fuel system for injector cleanliness. A faulty mass airflow sensor also affects air intake and mixture ratios, sometimes causing false sensor readings and incorrect ECU commands. Don't overlook loose wiring or aging fuel pumps—vans are prone to fuel pump failures. During maintenance, prioritize cleaning the throttle body and fuel injection system; don't wait for problems to arise. If these symptoms occur, don't hesitate—get it repaired early to prevent minor issues from escalating.

[OFelicity]

The van has poor acceleration and makes a sputtering sound. I prioritize safety while driving, so I pulled over immediately. This issue is often caused by combustion problems, with spark plugs or fuel injector malfunctions being the most common culprits. Check the spark plugs; if there's heavy carbon buildup, try replacing them. Insufficient fuel pump pressure in the fuel system can also cause lack of power. Regular maintenance, such as changing the air filter, can prevent such issues. Avoid forcing the vehicle to run as it may stall, which is highly dangerous. If simple part replacements don't fix the problem, take it to a professional repair shop.