The engine in your car or truck can run strong for years, or it can suddenly sputter and die. There are several possible causes of this problem, but the first step to fixing it is recognizing the different reasons why an engine might suddenly sputter and die. Let’s look at four of the most common causes of engine trouble and how to avoid them so you don’t end up on the side of the road with your car sputtering and dying.
Worn spark plugs
The simple act of starting your car’s engine involves a lot of work behind the scenes. If the spark plugs aren’t working correctly, your engine won’t start. And if it does start, you’ll notice the car sputters or that it starts and then suddenly stops running. Spark plugs are an essential part of your engine. They ignite the fuel-air mixture in your car’s engine, producing power for your vehicle to run on. When these components fail or become too worn, they will cause your vehicle to have problems firing consistently or prevent you from starting up altogether.
Clogged fuel filter
In some cases, a clogged fuel filter is the culprit of engine sputtering. Fuel filters keep your car’s fuel system clean and free of contaminants; they prevent rust and sediment from entering the carburetor or fuel injectors. A clogged filter restricts the amount of fuel that can enter the pistons, which may result in difficulty starting or sputtering when you attempt to start your vehicle. It’s generally recommended that you replace your filter once every 30,000 miles. If you notice difficulty starting your car, change the filter ASAP for safety reasons.
Incorrect fuel/air mixture ratio
One common cause of poor engine performance and fuel economy is an incorrect fuel/air mixture ratio. If your car is experiencing issues because of a wrong fuel/air mixture, the culprit is typically a faulty fuel ratio sensor. Unfortunately, sensors can fail without warning, so don’t ignore any signs of problems before making repairs–and don’t ignore any warning lights that come on during driving. An experienced technician will likely be able to find out which sensor has failed by plugging it into a diagnostic computer and testing its functionality.
Poor ignition timing
The timing belt (or chain) keeps the internal components in sync by controlling ignition timing. Poor ignition timing, called a misfire, is usually caused by something damaged internally, like the pistons or valves. It can also be caused by wear and tear over time. The result is that the spark plugs don’t ignite the fuel in the cylinders at precisely the right moment, causing a sputtering sound from your engine as it struggles to keep going. Ignition problems are typically more common with older cars than newer ones because there’s more room for error due to wear and tear on parts. If you have an older car, talk to your mechanic about timing belt replacement, which could solve your problem and prevent damage from getting worse down the road.
If your engine is sputtering, don’t wait until your car is no longer drivable. Instead, see your mechanic, who can diagnose your problems quickly and get you back on the road.