In general, the engine can stop pulling for a variety of reasons - this is one of the most common malfunctions, which can have a huge variety of reasons, and below we will look at the most likely ones, describe their symptoms and examine this issue in detail. After all, one day something can happen to each of us when the engine loses power, without being accompanied by any further symptoms. The engine probably isn't showing any obvious signs of any illness, it appears to be mostly fine and isn't making any unusual noises or vibrations, but it just doesn't pull as well as it usually does. And the problem seems to be getting worse and worse every day, although you probably didn’t even notice when the engine first started to pull worse.
If you are familiar with this situation, then let's look at the following reasons for the reduction in engine torque:
Poor quality fuel
First of all, you need to blame the fuel - remember where you last refueled - perhaps it’s a new gas station or one whose fuel you have not previously had experience driving with. It is quite possible that the fuel simply turned out to be of very poor quality (it happens that you will simply be lucky if your engine simply stops running - after all, someone’s engine will probably stop starting altogether until the owner completely replaces the fuel in the tank).
If you refuel at the gas station where you usually go, and nothing arouses suspicion, go to local communities on social networks, the car club of your region/district, or just a city portal - perhaps the gas station simply had a bad supply of fuel.
However, most often, coupled with loss of torque, the incompatibility of the engine with such low-quality fuel also has other symptoms - for example, instability of engine speed, difficulty starting and some others, depending on how bad the fuel turned out to be and on the car model.
But you can most likely determine the poor quality of gasoline yourself by unscrewing the spark plugs from the engine (for this you will need a special spark plug wrench) - in general, spark plugs can often be used as the primary diagnostic method for certain malfunctions in the combustion chamber of the engine, since they work together most closely with this combustion chamber and at the same time are quickly removable. If the fuel contains a large amount of metal-based additives, then the contacts of the spark plug and the “skirt” of the central diode will have a reddish coating (as if red brick had been crushed onto the spark plug).
Dirty air filter
You may also simply have your air filter dirty, and in this case, eliminating the loss of power will probably cost you less than all other options - just replace the air filter - you can either buy it yourself or replace it yourself.
The problem with a dirty air filter is that the fuel-air mixture that enters the combustion chamber of your engine's cylinders does not receive enough air, and therefore the fuel does not burn completely, because a sufficient amount of oxygen is needed for its combustion. The situation turns out to be similar to that of a person with a runny nose - he seems to be eating enough and leading a healthy lifestyle, but at certain moments in his life (during illness with this runny nose), clogged nasal passages do not allow him to breathe normally.
Dirty or old spark plugs
The spark plugs may well be fouled or excessively worn, in which case if the engine is not running because of them, it is also a relatively inexpensive option to fix the problem - simply clean the spark plugs or replace them. However, it should be borne in mind that both periodic contamination and wear of spark plugs is an abnormal process, and the reason for this most likely lies somewhere deeper, or in the spark plugs themselves.
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Dirty fuel filter
The fuel filter, like the air filter, can cause a loss of engine power. And the physics of the process here is similar to the air filter - if in the case described above the fuel did not burn completely due to lack of air, then in the case of a dirty fuel filter, on the contrary, an insufficient amount of fuel is supplied. In this case, simply replace the fuel filter.
Mechanical problems with the engine
If all of the above methods did not help, and the engine still pulls the car poorly, then it’s time to entrust the matter to professionals - stop by a good car service and diagnose the engine’s operation - checking the compression (compression ratio in the combustion chambers), for example, can say a lot about the operation engine, including information about approaching its service life limit and upcoming expensive repairs.
Fuel system malfunction
It is quite likely that the reason for the drop in engine torque is a violation of the normal operation of the fuel supply system to the cylinders, and there may also be a number of reasons why the engine does not gain speed, let’s list the main ones:
- Faulty (dirty) fuel pump due, for example, to low-quality fuel or gasoline being sucked out from the bottom of the tank, where most of the foreign dirt particles have settled.
- Malfunction of the injector or oxygen sensor.
- Leaks in fuel supply hoses or tubes where air is sucked in.
The catalytic converter or exhaust system is clogged
A contaminated catalytic converter or exhaust system line can also cause a decrease in engine torque. In both cases, replacing the corresponding contaminated component will help. It should be borne in mind that the catalyst, as a rule, is very expensive due to the content of noble metals in certain quantities.
We have listed the main and most probable reasons for a possible loss of engine power - you need to remember that there are a great many such reasons, and if you were unable to establish them yourself, then you must definitely go to a car service workshop to entrust this matter to professionals.
The engine does not pull: the main reasons for the decrease in engine power
So, if no other symptoms other than loss of traction are detected, then you immediately need to pay attention to the quality of the fuel, the proper functioning of the system, etc.
- As practice shows, more than half of the cases of reduced efficiency from internal combustion engines are associated with fuel. The engine does not turn on due to the fact that the tank may be filled with low-quality or unsuitable fuel for this type of engine (for example, 92-grade gasoline instead of 95-grade gasoline).
In some cases, after refueling, problems may also arise with starting the engine, and the engine appears. To solve this problem, it is often enough to dilute the existing fuel with a higher quality one. Less often, it becomes necessary to completely drain the fuel from the tank, after which additional flushing of the power system is performed.
Typically, such manipulations are necessary when, parallel to the loss of traction, unstable operation of the internal combustion engine is noted, and under load, the engine is difficult to start, on the panel, etc.
Also, owners of gasoline engines can independently determine the quality of gasoline. To check the spark plugs you need to unscrew them from the engine. A disruption in the combustion process of the fuel-air mixture in the cylinders, as well as the presence of impurities in the fuel, can be identified by soot on the spark plugs and its color.
For example, if the fuel contains a lot of third-party metal-containing additives and additives, then the skirt and electrodes may become covered with reddish soot (brick-colored). Black soot will indicate that the fuel is not burning properly, etc. In any case, malfunctions in the combustion process of the working mixture lead to the fact that the engine stops pulling.
- The next step in diagnosis is. A decrease in the efficiency of these elements is also accompanied by a decrease in the power of the power unit.
This is especially noticeable during sharp accelerations, and when the car is already moving at high speed. In other words, the motor has no “reserve” left for further acceleration.
The candles may be dirty, and it is also possible that their life has come to an end. To fix this problem, you can produce or immediately replace the entire set with a new one.
It is important to take into account that if new spark plugs are correctly selected for a specific engine in terms of heat rating and other parameters, but still quickly become dirty, then the reason for the loss of traction is not in them. The formation of carbon deposits in this case indicates problems with mixture formation or combustion of the fuel charge in the cylinders.
- If everything is in order with the spark plugs, then you need to check the condition of the fuel and air filters. In the first case, insufficient throughput can lead to the fact that the required amount of fuel is not supplied to the cylinders to prepare the so-called “power” mixture.
As a result, the engine loses power, that is, it does not pull under load. In such a situation, it is enough to replace the specified filter element. As for the air filter, the problem is similar to the fuel filter, but in this case there is a lack of air in the fuel-air mixture.
This leads to the fact that fuel without a sufficient amount of oxygen burns incompletely. In such conditions, engine power naturally drops, carbon deposits form in the combustion chamber, spark plugs become increasingly dirty, etc. To solve the problem it also needs to be replaced.
Power drop on a VAZ carburetor engine
To begin with, let's take VAZ cars with a carburetor power system and an 8-valve timing system - VAZ-2109, VAZ-2110, VAZ-2114, VAZ-2115.
The same power plant is installed on these cars, so the reasons are identical.
Let's go through those components, due to malfunction of which a drop in dynamics may occur.
In general, the main reason that the engine does not pull is a change in the processes in the combustion chambers - a mismatch in the proportions of the air-fuel mixture, the combustion process is disrupted, the filling of the cylinders and the removal of exhaust gases does not occur as required.
Supply system
Very often, a drop in traction occurs due to the power system. Structurally, the carburetor fuel system used on cars from VAZ-2109 to VAZ-2115 is very simple and is almost completely mechanical, so identifying the cause is not particularly difficult.
A decrease in power can occur due to:
- Severely clogged fuel filter (its throughput drops and the pump is simply not able to pump the required amount of fuel);
- Contamination of the carburetor channels (the jets and fuel channels in this element have a small cross-section and debris often clogs them);
- There is air leakage in the area from the tank to the pump (because of this, the performance of the fuel pump drops sharply);
- Damage to the fuel pump membrane (a small crack in it leads to the fact that the vacuum required for pumping fuel is not created in the pump chambers);
- The fastening of the carburetor or intake manifold is loose (due to this, air leaks around the carburetor and the proportion of the air-fuel mixture is greatly disturbed);
- The hole in the fuel tank cap is clogged (because of this, a vacuum is created in the tank and it is much more difficult for the gas pump to pump gasoline out of it);
In addition to the elements responsible for supplying fuel, a drop in power also occurs due to severe contamination of the air filter element.
Ignition system
This system also takes part in the combustion of the mixture, which means a failure in its operation can affect power.
In carburetor engines VAZ-2110 and others, a decrease in traction can occur due to:
- Faulty spark plugs or changes in their thermal gap;
- Excessive wear of the contacts and the central electrode of the distributor;
- Voltage losses in high-voltage wires;
- Violations of the ignition timing.
Irregularities in the power supply and ignition systems most often cause a drop in power, so testing to identify the cause should begin with them.
If the operation of these systems does not raise suspicions, other components of the engine should be diagnosed.
Exhaust system, timing belt and crankshaft
Loss of traction can also occur due to the exhaust gas removal system, although problems with it rarely occur on carburetor engines.
The main reason here is the reduction in throughput due to large deposits in the muffler. Because of this, exhaust gases, without having time to escape from the cylinders, “choke” the engine.
The reasons for the drop in thrust are also often the gas distribution mechanism and the cylinder-piston group.
Here the reduction in power occurs due to:
- Violations of the thermal clearance of valves;
- Heavy carbon deposits on the valve plates and seats, or their burning;
- Occurrence of rings;
- Limit wear of the CPG;
- Cylinder head gasket failure.
In general, problems with the timing belt and CPG cause a drop in power in any engine - carburetor, injection, diesel. Therefore, we will not mention these mechanisms further.
Malfunctions of the power supply system, ignition and impaired mixture formation
While problems with spark plugs and filters can be identified on the road, more serious problems associated with the power and ignition system are much more difficult to diagnose and fix on site. In cases where the engine does not pick up speed, and jerks and dips are noted when pressing the gas pedal, it is necessary to check the injector.
Let's focus on the more common electronic injection. The list of main malfunctions of modern injection internal combustion engines includes:
- malfunctions, decreased performance or contamination of the fuel pump mesh filter;
- malfunction of injection nozzles;
- problems with sensors or ECU;
- ignition system malfunctions;
- air leaks and leaking fuel lines;
If we talk about the ignition system, in addition to the spark plugs, you should also check the ignition coils, etc. As for the fuel supply, at the initial stage you should measure the pressure in the fuel rail (rail). At the same time, the pressure regulator in the fuel rail is also checked.
Often, on many cars, problems are associated with the fuel pump, which is located in the gas tank, as well as with the specified regulator. To measure fuel pressure, a pressure gauge is connected to the rail; the obtained values are compared with those recommended for a particular engine. If the pressure is below normal, then the culprit may be either the fuel pump or the pressure regulator.
The regulator's task is to discharge excess fuel into the return line at a time when the pressure is higher than normal. If the settings are incorrect or the regulator itself is leaking or faulty, then the fuel will be discharged into the return line ahead of time. To check this, air is pumped in with a compressor or pump, and the pressure in the rail increases. If the regulator operates earlier than the recommended pressure, the element must be adjusted or replaced.
Other reasons for reduced engine performance
The condition of the motor also greatly influences the power of the motor. The fact is that to protect the environment from harmful emissions during operation of the internal combustion engine, catalytic converters are installed in the exhaust.
During operation, the filter catalyst may be destroyed, reducing the throughput of the exhaust system. As a result, the engine is “strangled”. The check is carried out by measuring the pressure before and after the catalyst. You can also remove the element and inspect its condition visually.
As a rule, official services offer to replace a worn-out element, but the price of the spare part is very high. For this reason, on many cars in the CIS, the catalyst is simply knocked out, and the control unit is “deceived” by software or other available methods.
Also, when engine power decreases, it is necessary to check separately to eliminate the possibility of valve timing failure. Sometimes there are situations when the belt can jump one tooth, the chain stretches, etc.
In this case, the synchronous operation of the valve mechanism in relation to the operating cycles of the internal combustion engine may be disrupted. This leads to various failures, unstable operation of the unit and reduced power.
Let us also add that engine wear and certain malfunctions also affect engine power. As a rule, worn-out internal combustion engines with mileage usually lose about 10% of their declared power.
If the driver feels that the losses are greater, then the engine needs. Low compression in the cylinders can occur as a result of wear of the cylinder walls, piston rings, or incomplete closure, etc.
Why doesn't the engine pull? Reasons for power loss
In general, the engine can stop pulling for a variety of reasons - this is one of the most common malfunctions, which can have a huge variety of reasons, and below we will look at the most likely ones, describe their symptoms and examine this issue in detail. After all, one day something can happen to each of us when the engine loses power, without being accompanied by any further symptoms. The engine probably isn't showing any obvious signs of any illness, it appears to be mostly fine and isn't making any unusual noises or vibrations, but it just doesn't pull as well as it usually does. And the problem seems to be getting worse and worse every day, although you probably didn’t even notice when the engine first started to pull worse.
If you are familiar with this situation, then let's look at the following reasons for the reduction in engine torque:
Poor quality fuel
First of all, you need to blame the fuel - remember where you last refueled - perhaps it is a new gas station or one with fuel you have not previously had experience driving with. It is quite possible that the fuel simply turned out to be of very poor quality (it happens that you will simply be lucky if your engine simply stops running - after all, someone’s engine will probably stop starting altogether until the owner completely replaces the fuel in the tank).
If you refuel at the gas station where you usually go, and nothing arouses suspicion, go to local communities on social networks, the car club of your region/district, or just a city portal - perhaps the gas station simply had a bad supply of fuel.
However, most often, coupled with loss of torque, the incompatibility of the engine with such low-quality fuel also has other symptoms - for example, instability of engine speed, difficulty starting and some others, depending on how bad the fuel turned out to be and on the car model.
But you can most likely determine the poor quality of gasoline yourself by unscrewing the spark plugs from the engine (for this you will need a special spark plug wrench) - in general, spark plugs can often be used as the primary diagnostic method for certain malfunctions in the combustion chamber of the engine, since they work together most closely with this combustion chamber and at the same time are quickly removable. If the fuel contains a large amount of metal-based additives, then the contacts of the spark plug and the “skirt” of the central diode will have a reddish coating (as if red brick had been crushed onto the spark plug).
Dirty air filter
You may also simply have your air filter dirty, and in this case, eliminating the loss of power will probably cost you less than all other options - just replace the air filter - you can either buy it yourself or replace it yourself.
The problem with a dirty air filter is that the fuel-air mixture that enters the combustion chamber of your engine's cylinders does not receive enough air, and therefore the fuel does not burn completely, because a sufficient amount of oxygen is needed for its combustion. The situation turns out to be similar to that of a person with a runny nose - he seems to be eating enough and leading a healthy lifestyle, but at certain moments in his life (during illness with this runny nose), clogged nasal passages do not allow him to breathe normally.
Dirty or old spark plugs
The spark plugs may well be fouled or excessively worn, in which case if the engine is not running because of them, it is also a relatively inexpensive option to fix the problem - simply clean the spark plugs or replace them. However, it should be borne in mind that both periodic contamination and wear of spark plugs is an abnormal process, and the reason for this most likely lies somewhere deeper, or in the spark plugs themselves.
Dirty fuel filter
The fuel filter, like the air filter, can cause a loss of engine power. And the physics of the process here is similar to an air filter - if in the case described above the fuel did not burn completely due to lack of air, then in the case of a dirty fuel filter, on the contrary, an insufficient amount of fuel is supplied. In this case, simply replace the fuel filter.
Mechanical problems with the engine
If all of the above methods did not help, and the engine still pulls the car poorly, then it’s time to entrust the matter to professionals - stop by a good car service and diagnose the engine’s operation - checking the compression (compression ratio in the combustion chambers), for example, can say a lot about the operation engine, including information about approaching its service life limit and upcoming expensive repairs.
Fuel system malfunction
It is quite likely that the reason for the drop in engine torque is a violation of the normal operation of the fuel supply system to the cylinders, and there may also be a number of reasons why the engine does not gain speed, let’s list the main ones:
- Faulty (dirty) fuel pump due, for example, to low-quality fuel or gasoline being sucked out from the bottom of the tank, where most of the foreign dirt particles have settled.
- Malfunction of the injector or oxygen sensor.
- Leaks in fuel supply hoses or tubes where air is sucked in.
The catalytic converter or exhaust system is clogged
A contaminated catalytic converter or exhaust system line can also cause a decrease in engine torque. In both cases, replacing the corresponding contaminated component will help. It should be borne in mind that the catalyst, as a rule, is very expensive due to the content of noble metals in certain quantities.
We have listed the main and most probable reasons for a possible loss of engine power - you need to remember that there are a great many such reasons, and if you were unable to establish them yourself, then you must definitely go to a car service workshop to entrust this matter to professionals.
Source: howcarworks.ru
Stop driving with the handbrake, and traction will appear by itself
If you always set your car's handbrake but forget to release it while driving, prepare for compromised traction. When driving with the handbrake, you get the feeling that the car accelerates very slowly and it is too difficult to gain momentum. The driver immediately puts pressure on the engine, putting pressure on the suspension or gearbox. But he can’t even think that it’s enough to lower the handbrake lever for the problem to solve itself. Moreover, driving with the handbrake for quite a long time will cause the following troubles with the car:
- the rear brake discs (or drums, depending on the design of the car) become too hot;
- heating sometimes causes deformation or excessive wear of these parts with various consequences;
- wear in any case will be very high and will become the reason for the mandatory replacement of the pads and disc after 100 kilometers of such a trip;
- the drum brake may even fall apart during movement, reducing the safety of the trip;
- Heat and excessive friction can cause failure of some parts of the chassis;
- The brake system may also develop other problems that require immediate solutions.
These are the troubles that await you if you simply forget to remove the handbrake lever to its original position before moving off. If you have a manual transmission, keeping an eye on the handbrake becomes even more difficult. With an automatic, it is enough not to accelerate from the first second, but to let the car show its readiness for the trip, let it start idling. If you regularly leave the handbrake on, just stop using the handbrake. Leave it in gear, choose more or less level parking spots.
Weather and nature
Rain
In the rain, aerodynamics deteriorate and rolling resistance increases. Under heavy rain, the density of the very environment through which the car is pushing becomes much higher: after all, water is 800 times denser than air. I personally witnessed how, in heavy rain, a B-class car with an 85-horsepower engine refused to go faster than 65 km/h.
Wind
If the headwind speed is 20 m/s, up to a third of the engine power (depending on the speed of the car) is spent on overcoming air resistance. And strong cross-winds worsen the dynamics - especially of crossovers and minivans, which have a large cross-sectional area.
Highlands
The higher you climb into the mountains, the more traction drops. The reason is worse filling of the cylinders due to lower air density at altitude.
Every 1000 m above sea level, about 10% of the power is taken from the naturally aspirated engine. It turns out that a 100-horsepower engine at a four-thousandth pass will produce less than 70 hp.
Modern supercharged engines perform better in the mountains because turbochargers rely on excess performance to provide a wide torque shelf. In the mountains, this shelf will shift towards higher speeds, but in power modes the engine will pull well.
We check the most common reasons for decreased cravings
Reduced engine power can also be caused by other problems. For example, if you independently re-equipped the main components and parts of the machine, you can be sure that the traction will decrease. It is also worth paying attention to the frequency of service and the quality of the purchased fuel. If you haven't changed the oil in your car for several years or tens of thousands of kilometers, the wear and tear on engine parts will be incredible. You will have to restore the unit, and loss of traction means that you have very little time left for repair and maintenance work. The main reasons for loss of traction are as follows:
- bad fuel - if the gasoline is terrible, it simply does not burn out completely and does not provide the required power;
- poor quality and poor frequency of engine maintenance, which caused wear of the main parts;
- increased wear of the piston group, poor engine efficiency and loss of power due to natural processes;
- depressurization of one of the cylinders, low compression due to large gaps between parts;
- failure of the electrical system, spark plugs, wires and sensors, failure of one or two cylinders;
- transition to alternative fuels, including gas, which naturally reduces the efficiency of the unit;
- installing wheels with a significantly larger diameter than were installed at the factory and replacing other important parts of the machine;
- performing engine overhauls using analog spare parts.
All of these processes cause a decrease in cravings, which is the main indicator that you need to do something quickly. Otherwise, you will have to look for how to sell a car that is not quite working and how to buy a more or less normal one with the proceeds. It’s better not to let this happen and at the first appearance of problems with traction, bring life back to your iron horse. A loss of engine power should be an indicator that action needs to be taken.
Is the engine running poorly? Main reasons
The dynamics of a car, first of all, depend on the stable and stable operation of the engine. When this characteristic decreases, it indicates that there are problems with the engine.
Engine VAZ-2114
Unstable engine operation is caused by the following:
- The fuel filter is dirty.
- The fuel pump diaphragm is clogged.
- The air filter is clogged.
- Spark plugs do not work or work poorly.
- Insufficient compression in the cylinders.
- The on-board computer is malfunctioning.
- The injectors are clogged (they need to be cleaned or replaced).
- The clutch disc is worn.
- Malfunctions in the operation of sensors that monitor: the position of the crankshaft, throttle valve; coolant temperature; air flow; detonation.
These are only some of the possible reasons why the engine may not pull well throughout the entire speed range.
It is worth mentioning the fuel pump, which fails. The real state of affairs is determined by detailed diagnostics.
Brief analysis of the causes and their consequences on the VAZ-2114
- Fine filter dirty. Determined visually. Debris particles present in the fuel tank and gasoline accumulate in the filter and the channels become clogged. There is not enough fuel supplied. “Treatment” – the filter is changed completely.
Changing the fuel filter
- The fuel pump diaphragm is clogged. The reason is the same, there are dirt particles in gasoline. Solved by excavation, washing, blowing with compressed air
Changing the fuel pump grid
- The air filter is clogged. For a short time, it can be solved by blowing out the filter, you can knock on a hard object. Ideally, the filter is replaced with a new one.
Clean or change the air filter
- Spark plugs do not work or work poorly. Determined by inspection after unscrewing. One of the reasons is non-compliance with the standards for the gap between the electrodes. The gaps are checked with a feeler gauge and the required one is installed. To do this, bend the side electrode to the required amount.
Checking the gap between the spark plug electrodes
- Heavy carbon deposits form on the spark plugs. The electrodes are sanded with sandpaper (zero), cleaned, and the gap is checked.
Cleaning spark plugs from carbon deposits
- The serviceability of spark plugs is checked on a stationary stand. If problems occur, it must be replaced.
It is best to check spark plugs at a stand in a car service center.
- Insufficient compression in cylinders. This defect appears as a result of high wear of the cylinder-piston group. The result is increased oil consumption, incomplete combustion of the combustible mixture, air leaks, and gasoline enters the crankcase. In some cases, it is enough to replace the piston rings, in others a major overhaul of the engine is necessary.
We measure the compression in each cylinder
- Failure or breakdown of the electronic control unit. Without special knowledge it is impossible to repair. Diagnostics are carried out using special devices. Re-flashing is possible, or the control unit can be completely changed.
We carry out diagnostics of the control unit
- The injectors are clogged. Cleaning (rinsing) is carried out at the stand with special solutions. There are fuel additives, but they don’t give much effect. It may be necessary to replace a faulty injector, so read the material: “which injectors are best installed on a VAZ-2114.”
You can clean injectors at home
- The clutch disc is worn out. While driving, when the speed increases, the car does not gain the required speed, and slipping is felt. It is checked by experts by starting off in fourth gear. If it stalls, everything is fine with the disk; if the engine is running, then there is a problem. Solved by replacing the clutch disc.
If the clutch disc is worn, we replace it
- Sensor malfunctions. Often there is a break in electrical circuits. This is a field of activity for electricians. The state of the sensors is monitored by the indicator light “ Check engine". Breaks are repaired or sensors are changed.
If the Check engine sensor lights up, it indicates a malfunction of the sensors.
We recommend: Engine malfunctions, their causes and solutions
Why is it better to solve the problem with traction at a service station?
Of course, if poor traction is due to a forgotten handbrake or bad fuel, no service will help you. Unless you need to eliminate the problem of increased wear of the brake discs. In other cases, it is better to immediately contact a service station and not experiment with independent repair options. This way you can restore your car in a short time, without having to check possible theories of failure. The main benefits of service in this case for professionals will be the following:
- specialists will find the cause of the problem and will be able to completely restore normal operation;
- the service will recommend that you change your driving habits so that you don’t end up in this situation in the future;
- The company will purchase all spare parts independently, which reduces the risk of purchasing low-quality parts;
- diagnostics will show the exact part that is worth restoring, which can often save you money;
- The repair will be carried out professionally, you will be given a guarantee for the serviceability of the repaired unit.
These are important advantages of servicing your car with specialists, so it is better not to neglect them and get maximum comfort in operating your car. You will often have to overpay for expensive professional services, but this overpayment will definitely pay for itself. After completing the repair at a good station, you will not have to worry about possible repeated problems with traction. However, the health of a car in most cases depends on the driver’s behavior and habits on the road. Therefore, if a certain problem constantly arises in your car, just change your driving style. If you have a domestic car, you can watch the following video describing possible problems when the car loses traction:
Let's sum it up
Given the rather complex design system of a modern car, the loss of traction may not be felt as much or even not felt at all in daily use. But this is a serious indicator that it is time to carry out a certain set of repair work. Therefore, it is better to listen to the car and try to determine its real problems. If a loss of power is noticed, it is best to immediately go to a service station and fix the problem. This is the only way you can avoid serious damage with quite costly consequences.
If your car has lost power for a long time, you shouldn’t think that this is a natural process of car aging. It is better to set a goal and eliminate all possible causes of this problem. However, loss of power can indeed be a natural process. Major repairs, replacement of original parts with analog ones and other familiar processes for the car owner are a real problem for the operation of the unit. Tell me, have you encountered a sudden loss of power in your car, and how was it decided to deal with this problem?
In general, the engine can stop pulling for a variety of reasons - this is one of the most common malfunctions, which can have a huge variety of reasons, and below we will look at the most likely ones, describe their symptoms and examine this issue in detail. After all, one day something can happen to each of us when the engine loses power, without being accompanied by any further symptoms. The engine probably isn't showing any obvious signs of any illness, it appears to be mostly fine and isn't making any unusual noises or vibrations, but it just doesn't pull as well as it usually does. And the problem seems to be getting worse and worse every day, although you probably didn’t even notice when the engine first started to pull worse.
If you are familiar with this situation, then let's look at the following reasons for the reduction in engine torque:
Poor quality fuel
First of all, you need to blame the fuel - remember where you last refueled - perhaps it’s a new gas station or one whose fuel you have not previously had experience driving with. It is quite possible that the fuel simply turned out to be of very poor quality (it happens that you will simply be lucky if your engine simply stops running - after all, someone’s engine will probably stop starting altogether until the owner completely replaces the fuel in the tank).
If you refuel at the gas station where you usually go, and nothing arouses suspicion, go to local communities on social networks, the car club of your region/district, or just a city portal - perhaps the gas station simply had a bad supply of fuel.
However, most often, coupled with loss of torque, the incompatibility of the engine with such low-quality fuel also has other symptoms - for example, instability of engine speed, difficulty starting and some others, depending on how bad the fuel turned out to be and on the car model.
But you can most likely determine the poor quality of gasoline yourself by unscrewing the spark plugs from the engine (for this you will need a special spark plug wrench) - in general, spark plugs can often be used as the primary diagnostic method for certain malfunctions in the combustion chamber of the engine, since they work together most closely with this combustion chamber and at the same time are quickly removable. If the fuel contains a large amount of metal-based additives, then the contacts of the spark plug and the “skirt” of the central diode will have a reddish coating (as if red brick had been crushed onto the spark plug).
Dirty air filter
You may also simply have your air filter dirty, and in this case, eliminating the loss of power will probably cost you less than all other options - just replace the air filter - you can either buy it yourself or replace it yourself.
The problem with a dirty air filter is that the fuel-air mixture that enters the combustion chamber of your engine's cylinders does not receive enough air, and therefore the fuel does not burn completely, because a sufficient amount of oxygen is needed for its combustion. The situation turns out to be similar to that of a person with a runny nose - he seems to be eating enough and leading a healthy lifestyle, but at certain moments in his life (during illness with this runny nose), clogged nasal passages do not allow him to breathe normally.
Dirty or old spark plugs
The spark plugs may well be fouled or excessively worn, in which case if the engine is not running because of them, it is also a relatively inexpensive option to fix the problem - simply clean the spark plugs or replace them. However, it should be borne in mind that both periodic contamination and wear of spark plugs is an abnormal process, and the reason for this most likely lies somewhere deeper, or in the spark plugs themselves.
Dirty fuel filter
The fuel filter, like the air filter, can cause a loss of engine power. And the physics of the process here is similar to the air filter - if in the case described above the fuel did not burn completely due to lack of air, then in the case of a dirty fuel filter, on the contrary, an insufficient amount of fuel is supplied. In this case it's simple.
Mechanical problems with the engine
If all of the above methods did not help, and the engine still pulls the car poorly, then it’s time to entrust the matter to professionals - stop by a good car service and diagnose the engine’s operation - checking the compression (compression ratio in the combustion chambers), for example, can say a lot about the operation engine, including information about approaching its service life limit and upcoming expensive repairs.
Fuel system malfunction
It is quite likely that the reason for the drop in engine torque is a violation of the normal operation of the fuel supply system to the cylinders, and there may also be a number of reasons why the engine does not gain speed, let’s list the main ones:
- Faulty (dirty) fuel pump due, for example, to low-quality fuel or gasoline being sucked out from the bottom of the tank, where most of the foreign dirt particles have settled.
- Malfunction of the injector or oxygen sensor.
- Leaks in fuel supply hoses or tubes where air is sucked in.
The catalytic converter or exhaust system is clogged
A contaminated catalytic converter or exhaust system line can also cause a decrease in engine torque. In both cases, replacing the corresponding contaminated component will help. It should be borne in mind that the catalyst, as a rule, is very expensive due to the content of noble metals in certain quantities.
We have listed the main and most probable reasons for a possible loss of engine power - you need to remember that there are a great many such reasons, and if you were unable to establish them yourself, then you must definitely go to a car service workshop to entrust this matter to professionals.
Modern engines have good power, a sufficient level of efficiency, and pollute the environment less. When the behavior of the power unit changes, it is immediately noticeable. If the car does not pull, the reasons for this phenomenon can be very different. Let's look at them.
An engine can lose traction for various reasons. There are a huge number of different faults that result in loss of power. Sometimes cravings go away without any symptoms. The unit does not make unusual noises, does not vibrate - it just has lost traction. Every day the car drives worse and worse. This situation is probably familiar to every motorist.
Why the car doesn't pull: reasons?
Modern engines have good power, a sufficient level of efficiency, and pollute the environment less. When the behavior of the power unit changes, it is immediately noticeable. If the car does not pull, the reasons for this phenomenon can be very different. Let's look at them.
An engine can lose traction for various reasons. There are a huge number of different faults that result in loss of power. Sometimes cravings go away without any symptoms. The unit does not make unusual noises, does not vibrate - it just has lost traction. Every day the car drives worse and worse. This situation is probably familiar to every motorist.
Check the air filter
A filter that is too dirty does not allow enough air to pass through to create a fuel mixture. This can lead to a significant drop and fuel consumption will increase significantly.
In addition, the quality of the materials used in it can also affect the operation of the motor.
When purchasing another filter, many try to buy the cheapest product available. You shouldn’t buy just anything, because further engine repairs will cost much more.
There are many different stories about cheap and unoriginal filters. These products break, and then a series of serious malfunctions follow the chain, including failure of the piston rings. To check the condition of the air filter, you need to open the hood, remove the element from the housing and visually assess the condition. If necessary, the part is changed immediately.
Power system pressure
The fuel pump is located in the gas tank on the injection engine. The pump will be found under the hood, on the engine. For most cars, power loss can be attributed specifically to the fuel pump.
Many modern cars have special connectors on the fuel line for connecting a pressure gauge. This way you can check the pressure. If the connector is missing, you will have to work a little to connect.
Pressure values can be found in the engine instructions. There is a special regulator in the line, with which you can relieve excess pressure directly into the tank. This regulator may be incorrectly configured, or it may leak. To check it you will need an ordinary air pump. Using it, you need to smoothly raise the pressure level to the one indicated in the passport for the motor. If you did not have time to increase the pressure, and the regulator dumped fuel into the tank, then it must be replaced.
Air flow and pressure sensor
These two elements determine how much air the engine consumes, as well as how much air is needed to create the optimal air-fuel mixture. If these sensors fail, then the ECU will not make the calculations correctly and, accordingly, traction may be lost. If the car does not pull, the reasons (including the VAZ-2110 injector) may be in these sensors. If necessary, they should be replaced, and then the power will return again.
But if the car has an ECU, why doesn’t the corresponding light on the dashboard light up? The electronic control unit is programmed for an open or short circuit. If there is none of this, and the sensor simply does not work as it should, the computer will be able to report that the mixture is being prepared incorrectly. If the car pulls poorly, there may be other reasons, but it’s worth checking the sensor. You will have to look for the source of the sensor’s malfunction yourself. The parameters of a specific element can be found in the instructions.
Reason 6. Pressure and air flow sensor
The car does not consume gasoline in its pure form, but converts it into a fuel-air mixture. Its quality determines how well the car will respond to pressing the gas pedal. If the sensors are broken, the calculations to create the optimal mixture will be incorrect, which means the car will lose traction.
Do not assume that a faulty sensor is indicated on the dashboard. If everything were easy, diagnosticians would not be useful as specialists. The car control system is programmed for a short circuit and for wire separation. If the reason is different, then you need to look for the breakdown yourself.
Timing belt or chain
The crankshaft and crankshaft must rotate together and at the same time synchronously. This is what belts are used for. Here you just need to combine the marks that are on the chains, belts and gears.
It happens that the belt can jump to another tooth. Chains tend to stretch. However, if these mechanisms are maintained on time and correctly, this cause can be eliminated.
Checking the exhaust system
The design of a modern engine is quite complex. Manufacturers make them so that cars do not pollute the environment. Or if they polluted it, it was minimal.
So, one of the devices that affects the purification of exhaust gases is a catalyst. It can be located in different places. If your car has it, then with regular use of low-quality fuel, which is sold in large quantities at most of our gas stations, the catalyst may become unusable. But it not only collapses, but can also block the normal exit of exhaust gases. As a result, the car does not pull uphill. Reasons include a clogged catalyst.
To check the catalyst, it is necessary to use remote thermometers. You can also check its performance by the pressure before and after the device. If all these possibilities are not available, then you will have to dismantle the device and assess its condition visually. If the catalyst is clogged, it should be replaced or a flame arrester installed instead.
Reasons for the decline in dynamics
Experts believe that the main reasons for the decline in dynamics are:
Gasoline units
As a rule, the reasons for the drop in throttle response on gasoline and diesel internal combustion engines are the same, but there is still a difference. The power of a gasoline power plant implies a relationship with crankshaft speed. Unlike diesel units, the power characteristics of gasoline internal combustion engines directly depend on the speed described above. The higher they are, the more dynamics the engine produces. And if an engine powered by gasoline fuel is, for whatever reason, unable to produce maximum speed, its dynamics drop accordingly.
The crankshaft rotation speed decreases for one simple reason: due to overheating of the internal combustion engine. This often happens during the hot season or when driving for a long time in a traffic jam. Obviously, allowing the internal combustion engine to overheat is extremely undesirable.
Some foreign cars are simply not designed for our climate
There are other reasons for the decline in the dynamics of gasoline internal combustion engines. For example, an incorrectly adjusted accelerator pedal. An elementary reason, but one that can significantly affect the efficiency of the internal combustion engine.
Diesel engines
Recently, there have been frequent problems with Japanese diesel power plants. It is interesting that after the 100 km/h line the engine does not show any problems, but before that it behaves extremely poorly: it does not pull uphill, starts poorly, etc.
The main reason for the decrease in throttle response of a diesel internal combustion engine is the limitation of fuel supply.
Most experts agree with this opinion. And indeed, this happens in 80 out of 100 cases. The remaining secondary problems are related to difficulties with air leaks, a frozen fuel pipe (a common problem for Russian drivers), etc.
The next popular reason is related to wear of the injectors. For example, if a second-hand car has been plowed, its injectors will definitely wear out. As a result, the car will smoke a little. This can be repaired, but most drivers sell such equipment, but first use a trick to eliminate the smoke and sell the Pepelats at a higher price.
Black smoke from a diesel engine is not always as dangerous as from a gasoline engine.
We recommend: The engine revs poorly - where to look for the problem?
The trick sometimes involves adjusting the fuel supply, a kind of “crushing” of power. The original XX speed is restored, the car no longer smokes, but also does not pull. Checking the “dark horse” is quite simple: you need to return the idle speed to its previous position, if smoke appears, then the injectors need to be repaired.
Another reason for the reduction in the power characteristics of a diesel internal combustion engine is the jamming of the distributor timer piston in the injection pump (high pressure fuel pump). This is especially clearly indicated by the loss of dynamics at high speeds.
It is also noteworthy that it does not always indicate a problem with the dynamics on cars with a diesel engine. Any such car, if you fully press the accelerator pedal or suddenly start from a stop, will start smoking black.
On turbocharged internal combustion engines, the cause of a drop in power is most often a bad turbine. It is diagnosed by removing the rubber tube from the injection pump. Then the corresponding measurements are taken with a pressure gauge. At speeds up to 4500 per minute, if the turbine is working properly, the readings should indicate at least 0.5 kg/cm2.
The difference in the reasons for the drop in dynamics may also be due to the difference between an injection and carburetor engine. The table below shows the most common situations in which power does not develop on an injector and carburetor internal combustion engine.
Table: why the power characteristics of the engine dropped (injector and carburetor)
Injection internal combustion engine | Carburetor internal combustion engine |
Dirty fuel or air filters | Inadequate opening of carburetor valves |
Fuel pump filter screen is dirty | Dirt accumulation in the carburetor and clogged fuel pump fittings |
Incorrect operation of the vehicle ECU | Pressure drop or malfunction in the needle valve |
Dirt accumulation in injectors | Problems with the float element |
Malfunctions of the fuel pressure regulator, main sensors whose operation is related to the engine and damage to the lambda probe | Reduced nozzle capacity |
— | Faulty economizer valve |
Maintenance, which should be carried out according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, will avoid many problems. The only question is where to go, at the “Kulibins”, or at specialized service stations equipped with the necessary equipment and equipment. The choice is up to the vehicle owner. The sooner the prerequisites for the failure of a particular part are identified, the less financial losses there will be in the future . It should be remembered that timely maintenance increases the safe operation of the vehicle.
Compression
If the car does not pull, the reasons may be compression. To check you will need a compression gauge. It is better if it is equipped with a pressure gauge with good accuracy. When operating the engine, the piston rings are ground off. As a result, compression in the cylinders decreases or disappears altogether. If the timing valves are not installed too tightly in their seats, then the test will show poor results.
To identify the cause of poor compression, after the measurement is completed, add oil to the cylinder and then measure again. If the level has increased slightly, then the piston rings need to be replaced. If you are unlucky and the compression remains the same, then the valves will need to be replaced. If the car does not pull, the reasons (VAZ-2109 is no exception) may be precisely this.
Before measuring compression, the battery should be well charged. Otherwise you will not get the correct indicators. A compression gauge is screwed in instead of spark plugs. This is much better than using a rubber seal. Perhaps, if the car does not pull, the reasons are low compression.
Checking the transmission
Sometimes the power unit can develop serious power, but it does not reach the wheels. If while driving you hear that the engine is working hard, but you don’t feel speed, then perhaps the automatic transmission system is slipping or there are blockages on the brakes.
To check, you need to drive onto a straight section, set the automatic transmission selector to position D, and then see how the car behaves. If the speed decreases, then diagnostics should be carried out. If everything is in order with the brakes, you need to go to a good service station and check the automatic transmission.
You can also check the parking brake. To do this, you need to go to free space. Warm up the car and then pull the handbrake. Next, press the brake pedal and set it to position D. Next, press the accelerator. If the engine keeps the rpm around 2000, then everything is fine with it. If it is less or more, you should go to a service station to test the automatic transmission.
Why the car doesn't pull: reasons (carburetor)
If such an engine loses traction, the fuel pump fitting may be dirty or there may be low pressure in the system.
It is also possible that the carburetor is simply dirty or there is some problem with the needle valve. There may be errors or incorrect settings for adjusting the composition of the fuel mixture. If the carburetor flaps are not open enough, traction may be lost. When the fuel level in the engine decreases, traction also disappears. When there are any problems with traction in the engine, it is urgent to carry out a full diagnosis.
You definitely need to find out why the car pulls poorly; we have already looked at the reasons. If a malfunction is found, it should be corrected immediately. If you could not find the reason for the decrease in cravings on your own, there is no need to hesitate. A more in-depth examination should be carried out at the service station. But basically, the cause can still be identified and eliminated independently.
So, we found out why the car loses traction.
Source
Why does the engine not pull when driving uphill?
When a car moves uphill, the load on its engine increases.
Several of its systems are responsible for providing good traction in such conditions. Failure of at least one of them leads to a noticeable decrease in power and throttle response, which the driver feels as “the engine does not pull when driving uphill.” In some cases, as a “bonus”, attempts to stall begin in response to pressing the gas pedal.
Here are a dozen reasons for this malfunction, by eliminating which you can return the engine to its former agility and provide the car with not just good traction uphill, but even the ability to accelerate at almost any angle of climb. We will take a closer look at those that you need to pay attention to first.
As an example, we use the carburetor engine 21083 of VAZ 21083, 21093, 21099 cars. We will give a list of reasons for an injection engine in a separate article so as not to make a “footcloth” out of the article.
Why does a carburetor engine not pull when driving uphill?
In most cases, the underlying causes of problems with uphill traction are engine operation on a lean fuel mixture, violation of the ignition timing and combustion process. Here's what can lead to this.
— Fuel level in the carburetor float chamber is too low
In this case, the relationship is very simple: low fuel level - less gasoline enters the fuel mixture (it is lean) - the fuel charge in the combustion chambers does not have enough energy - the engine does not have enough strength to rotate the crankshaft and it does not pull up.
The fuel level in the float chamber can be checked and adjusted independently: “Adjusting the fuel level in the float chamber of the Solex carburetor.”
Too low a fuel level in the carburetor float chamber is one of the reasons for a lean fuel mixture and lack of traction uphill. Eliminated by adjusting the position of the float.
— Fuel supply failure to the carburetor
The reasons for the fuel supply failure may be damage to the fuel lines, clogged fuel filters, faulty fuel pump, etc. In any case, the fuel level in the carburetor float chamber will drop, the fuel mixture entering the engine will become leaner and it will not start to rise.
A check will help narrow down the troubleshooting. You should check whether fuel is flowing from the fuel system to the carburetor or not. Remove the hose from the carburetor inlet pipe or from the fuel outlet pump and press the manual fuel pump lever on the fuel pump several times. If there are any problems with the fuel supply from the fuel lines, tank, or a faulty fuel pump, the fuel stream from the hose will be absent or too weak. If there is a jet, the carburetor is faulty.
Checking the fuel supply through the power supply system of the carburetor engine of VAZ 2108, 2109, 21099 cars
You can independently find the cause of the fuel supply failure according to the instructions given in the article: “No gasoline supply to the car engine, reasons.”
— The economizer of carburetor power modes does not work
The economizer allows you to further enrich the fuel mixture when maximum power is required from the engine. It comes into operation when the throttle valves are almost fully open and supplies a little gasoline from the float chamber to the atomizer of the GDS diffuser of the 2nd chamber. But, if its diaphragm is damaged, its pusher is worn out, the channels and jets are clogged, the additional supply is clogged. The fuel flow will stop and the engine will begin to slow down slightly.
The economizer can be checked, if necessary, cleaned and damaged parts replaced. Read more: “Checking and repairing the economizer of power modes of the Solex 21083 carburetor.”
Replacing the economizer diaphragm of the power modes of the Solex 21083 carburetor
— Carburetor econostat does not work
The econostat is an additional system of the Solex carburetor, which also adds gasoline to the fuel mixture at power levels. Due to the vacuum (low pressure area), the fuel is drawn out of the float chamber and supplied to the econostat atomizer, where it is mixed with air at the outlet and thrown into the carburetor mixing chamber. The overall flow of the fuel mixture is enriched, the engine runs more vigorously and without failures. There’s not much to break in the econostat. You can only check whether the channel is clogged and the intake tube with the sprayer is deformed. Read more: “Checking and repairing the econostat of the Solex 21083 carburetor.”
Parts of econostat for Solex carburetor 21083
— The throttle valve of the second chamber does not open completely
The second chamber of the carburetor does not come into operation, and one chamber is not enough for the power mode.
— The car engine air filter is clogged
The flow of air into the engine is reduced, and filling the cylinders with air is the basis of its operation.
— The vacuum ignition timing regulator is faulty
It first increases the ignition timing (makes it earlier), and when the load on the engine increases (large or full throttle opening), when the mixture formation in the engine cylinders improves, on the contrary, it decreases (makes it later).
A broken diaphragm, a leaky vacuum supply tube, a stuck base plate, a clogged channel in the carburetor body, or a leaky housing lead to failure of the vacuum ignition timing regulator and a decrease in engine thrust on an ascent.
Vacuum ignition timing regulator in distributor
You can check and adjust the vacuum ignition timing regulator in the distributor according to the instructions “The vacuum ignition timing regulator does not work.”
— Incorrect initial ignition timing angle
— Worn piston
Compression decreases, and for normal combustion of the fuel mixture a certain pressure is required at the end of the compression stroke.
— The clearances in the valve mechanism do not correspond to the norm
— The timing marks are knocked down
— The clutch is slipping
When the pedal is released, the clutch is constantly engaged. That is, the pressure plate presses the driven one against the flywheel and torque is transmitted from the flywheel to the input shaft of the gearbox.
The clutch is constantly engaged at idle, while driving with the gear engaged, and when coasting. If for some reason the driving disk does not fully press the driven disk against the flywheel, the clutch will slip (“slip”) and the driven disk will slip relative to the flywheel. Torque transmission will be intermittent and insufficient. This is especially noticeable when driving uphill, when the driver presses the gas, the engine roars and gains speed, but the acceleration of the car is weak or with some delay.
In such a situation, it is necessary to check and, if necessary, adjust the clutch drive, and if that does not help, replace its driven disk.
Adjusting the clutch drive by rotating the adjusting nut
Here are detailed instructions for checking and adjusting the clutch drive: “Adjusting the clutch on VAZ 2108, 2109, 21099 cars.”
Notes and additions
- As additional reasons, you can add low quality gasoline, low tire pressure, ice on the road, many passengers or they are too large, too heavy a load in the trunk and (or) on the roof, towing an overloaded trailer.
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More articles on engine malfunctions of VAZ 21083, 21093, 21099 cars
— Failure when pressing the gas pedal
— Engine stalls when releasing gas
— The engine stalls when you press the brake pedal
— How to eliminate the failure when the car starts moving smoothly?
— Failure when sharply pressing the gas pedal