Why is there a delay when stepping hard on the accelerator in a BMW 523?
3 Answers
If there is a delay when stepping hard on the accelerator in a BMW 523, it is recommended to check whether the car has excessive carbon buildup in the engine, as this could be a potential cause. Working Principle: When the accelerator pedal is pressed, the throttle position sensor detects the speed and depth of your pedal press. The throttle position sensor communicates with the DME (Digital Motor Electronics) and transmits the accelerator signal to the DME. The DME comprehensively analyzes and processes the throttle signal along with signals from other systems, then sends a control signal to the BMW electronic throttle servo motor to regulate the valve lift and determine the intake air volume. The intake air volume is one of the primary factors determining the fuel injection quantity. Once the intake air volume is determined, the fuel injection quantity can be calculated, and the DME controls the fuel injectors to spray fuel. With both gasoline and air present, they mix in the cylinder, and the spark plug ignites the mixture, causing the engine to run faster. The engine's power is amplified through the transmission and final drive, then applied to the tires, enabling the car to accelerate. Accelerator Pedal: Also known as the engine throttle position sensor.
I've also experienced throttle lag issues when driving this BMW 523. It feels like there's a delay before the power kicks in after flooring the accelerator, which is quite annoying. This is mainly caused by the turbocharging system - the turbo needs some time to build up pressure before delivering full power, resulting in so-called turbo lag. Additionally, the electronic throttle system intentionally slows down response for fuel efficiency, making it feel sluggish. The transmission might also be a culprit, with hesitant gear-shifting logic during hard acceleration. Carbon buildup is another common factor - dirty throttle bodies or fuel injectors can affect engine response. I've seen significant improvement after sticking to regular maintenance for carbon cleaning and software updates. I recommend getting a comprehensive check at the authorized dealership - don't overlook this issue as it may increase fuel consumption or even affect engine longevity.
As a seasoned driver with decades of experience, I deeply understand the throttle lag in the BMW 523. Every time I press the accelerator hard, the power comes a beat too slow, often because the transmission doesn't shift gears in time or the electronic system settings are too conservative. Engine carbon buildup is also a major cause—dirty components just can't keep up with the rhythm. This delay can be downright dangerous when overtaking, so I've learned to lightly press the accelerator in advance to smooth out the acceleration. Leaving some margin in driving habits is crucial, and timely checks of the air filter and sensors can prevent small issues from becoming big ones. I've distilled these methods from experience, and warming up the engine before driving also helps. Routine maintenance saves a lot more money than repairs.
