Why Does Your BMW Sputter While Accelerating in Jeffersonville?

Sputtering while accelerating in your BMW can be a warning sign for several things that require your immediate attention. Typically, sputtering will signal a problem with the engine, but many drivers may not know how to properly diagnose engine troubles. You want to know what to tell your preferred mechanic so they have an idea where to start with their diagnostic check. It is also important to be educated on potential issues so you can communicate effectively with your mechanic.

1. Fuel System Malfunctions

Filters, injectors, and the pump are the components of the fuel system. They provide different functions to help ensure the flow of fuel to the fuel injectors. If any one of them are broken or malfunctioning, they cannot provide safe passage from your tank to the fuel injectors. They can clog and become dirty, which will lead to backups and an unsteady flow of fuel. If the system isn’t getting enough fuel or it is being weighed down with debris, it can cause damage.

2. Old, Dirty, or Damaged Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are an important component to engine function. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your spark plugs, it’s probably time. Spark plugs are one of the three main components of fuel transfer to the engine. They provide the actual spark that lights the oxygen in the fuel to get the engine working. If your spark plugs are damaged or old, they cannot provide the spark for your engine to work. If the spark plugs are dirty, they cannot ignite the fuel cleanly or effectively. This can cause a sputtering engine when you attempt to accelerate.

3. Faulty Catalytic Converter

Harmful gases in exhaust are removed by the catalytic converter. If these harmful gases are not removed properly, they can cause damage to your car internally. A failing converter will not be able to break down the sulfur in exhaust. You will notice a rotten smell as well as sputtering sounds coming from your car. If not repaired, this can lead to a complete break down of the vehicle.

4. Clogged Airflow

Our cars are essentially hyper-aware computers that synchronize complex components of electrical wiring with machinery. They have a multitude of sensors that keep track of and send messages from one component to the next. If the airflow sensor is bogged down with dirt, it cannot communicate with the combustion chamber to regulate the amounts of fuel and air needed to get the engine to work properly. If it is clogged, it will not give the right amount of airflow to the chamber, and the reaction won’t be right. This will cause problems for your engine, potentially leaving you stranded.

5. Worn Out Seals

Seals and gaskets keep unwanted particles, gases, and oils from getting into the combustion chamber. If any of these things leak into the chamber, it can cause a complete break down of the exhaust system. This can result in issues with airflow, which will also make it impossible for the engine to continue working.

What To Do When You Hear Sputtering

Try to drive your BMW to a trained mechanic as soon as you begin to hear sputtering so that engine conditions do not worsen. If you feel the need, pull over safely and call for a tow, but that situation would only be in extreme cases. You will be able to tell the difference based on the severity of engine symptoms.

Your mechanic will run a diagnostic test to decipher what part of the system is malfunctioning and advise you of what components need repair, the estimated cost, and the downtime necessary to complete the work.

Mike Johns Imports Will Help

Mike Johns Imports is Louisville’s leading auto shop for BMW and MINI Cooper repairs and services. Our mission is to provide high-quality, professional service with guaranteed customer satisfaction.

We serve the surrounding communities of Crestwood, Hurstbourne, Jeffersontown, Louisville, St. Matthews, and Jeffersonville, IN faithfully. We want you to know your speciality vehicle is in good hands.

We offer price matching with the lowest prices among our competitors for the highest-quality service. We will always take your concerns about your vehicle into account. So if the sputtering in your BMW is present and you’re worried it could be developing into a larger problem, call us for an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon.