4 Common Reasons Your Car Engine is Sputtering

Picture this: you turn your car on and start driving, only to hear a strange sputtering sound coming from under the hood. Has something come loose? When was the last time you had an oil change? Is your vehicle going to need expensive repairs at your local Santa Barbara service center?

Even following proper maintenance protocols and schedules, the reality is that your engine does a lot of work to keep your vehicle moving forward, and, over time, parts will wear or give out. Not only that, but surrounding components can run into trouble and have a negative effect on your engine. From bad spark plugs to diagnosing failing catalytic converter sounds, this guide will help you to determine why you have engine sputtering noises and what to do about them.

Engine Sputtering Cause #1: Bad Spark Plugs

When your spark plugs run out, your engine won’t have the required combustion to keep things operating smoothly. You’ll obviously notice the engine sputtering, but you may also notice a reduction in acceleration and overall power or your car having trouble turning on. Following routine maintenance at a trusted service center will include replacing worn spark plugs to avoid this issue. However, if you encounter engine sputtering, either try replacing the spark plugs yourself if you’re handy, or bring your vehicle to a nearby service center for a quick inspection.

Engine Sputtering Cause #2: Faulty Fuel System

If you have a clog somewhere in the fuel system, your engine likely isn’t getting the proper amount of fuel for combustion. Engine sputtering during acceleration or weakening at higher speeds often points to a clog in the fuel lines, fuel filter, or fuel pump. Be sure to use the recommended fuel grade for your vehicle and bring your vehicle in if you notice engine sputtering while accelerating.

Engine Sputtering Cause #3: MAF Sensor Malfunctioning

The MAF (mass airflow sensor) monitors how much air goes into the engine, because in order for combustion to occur, there needs to be the right ratio of oxygen to fuel. Not enough air, not enough combustion. Too much air results in what’s known as lean fuel, and you’ll notice reduced power and higher exhaust temperatures. If you notice your engine sputtering at idle, you likely have a faulty MAF sensor that needs to be replaced.

Engine Sputtering Cause #4: Catalytic Converter Issues

Once combustion has happened in the engine, it’s sent out and needs to pass through the catalytic converter before eventually exiting the tailpipe. However, catalytic converters can become clogged, too. When this happens, fumes back up in the engine, causing sputtering. Like bad spark plugs, this can result in reduced acceleration, power, and fuel efficiency. It can also develop into transmission issues, which are always a stressful endeavor to face. When you bring your vehicle in for engine sputtering and bad spark plugs, ask your mechanic to check the catalytic converter to make sure there aren’t any issues lying in wait.

Bring Your Vehicle to Toyota of Santa Barbara

If you’re experiencing engine sputtering in your Toyota vehicle, head down to Toyota of Santa Barbara to have our experts inspect and fix your vehicle. Our technicians are knowledgeable in all Toyota vehicles and can get your vehicle back up and running in no time. Contact us today for more information or schedule service online now to pick a time that works for you.