Q: Acclerator pedal malfunctioned, misfired, service engine and loud noise

asked by on August 17, 2016

I was driving 15 mph when my car would no longer accelerate when I was pressing down on the accelerator pedal. It also misfired, made a very loud noise, and then the Service Engine light came on. It took my car to the dealership and they performed a diagnosis. They told me that the app sensor needed replacement. Before I go forward with their replacement, please tell me your assessment of this problem and if you think there might be any other solution?

The accelerator pedal position sensor is a common failure item as well the the throttle position sensor in the throttle body assembly. Either sensor can cause similar performance concerns. The cause of these problems usually result in a diagnostic code pointing to the circuit where the fault is located so the technicians have a little help finding the bug. I would trust the technicians assessment in this case. Of course, if the problem is not fixed, then the job is not done. If you would like to have this taken care of elsewhere, a certified technician from YourMechanic can come to the site of your car to replace the throttle/acceleration pedal sensor for you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I use the front reading lights?
The front reading lights are available so that you can have light in the cabin of your vehicle even when it is dark out. They also double as the courtesy lights when your car is unlocked. The front reading lights...
Check Engine Light; Code P1449
Hello. Code P1449 is for the hybrid battery overheating. Honda has issued a TSB 04-028 for this issue. You will have to take your car to the dealer, since the high voltage battery must be accessed for repair. Honda has...
Engine knocks
Engines can make a lot of different noises when there is something wrong. If it is extremely loud and consistent, your engine will need replaced. If it is ‘knocking” when the engine is cold and is quiet when it’s warm,...
Engine went into "limp home mode with power train fault wrench indicated in dash. It will not accelerate. Not pulling any load.
Hi there. Your vehicle's wrench light, Check Engine Light and lack of performance go hand in hand. The vehicle's PCM (powertrain control module) has recognized a fault and put the vehicle into limp home mode. It could be, a throttle...
Dash lights are on and have issues with the battery and the transmission.
Hi there. First check the computer for any codes that could be stored as the check engine light is on. This will give you a starting place where the problem could be coming from. If the drivetrain control module is...
Excessive cranking after setting 15-30 minutes, will start if put gas pedal to floor
Hi there. There are multiple issues that could be causing this problem, ranging from EGR valve issues to a idle control valve or even throttle body problem. If you're able to start the truck by putting throttle to the floor,...
How many O2 sensor does a 2008 Dodge charger V8 have
Hi There, You should have two O2 sensors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oxygen-sensor-replacement) per bank. One is in front of the catalytic converter (typically in the exhaust manifold) and one is behind the catalytic converter, which is used to monitor the function of the...
I got a new fuel pump and filter and when my car is stopped it jumps up and down why?
It's either motor mounts or an engine management fault (ignition, fuel, air induction, etc. but also including uneven cylinder compression and mechanical issues) or perhaps a combination of the two. The root cause(s) of the problem can be pinpointed if...
Rich idle only, negative STFT
Some common causes of too much fuel being delivered in a situation like that you describe are: a faulty coolant temperature sensor (the temperature signal is a part determinant of injector pulse width); leaking fuel injector(s) allowing too much fuel...

Related articles

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Brake Booster Vacuum Sensor
A failing brake booster vacuum sensor will cause the brake pedal to be stiff or turn on the Check Engine Light.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Throttle Body Temp Sensor
Common signs include poor engine performance, stalling, and broken electrical connections.
How Long Does an Injector Control Pressure Sensor Last?
A A diesel engine is a very sensitive and complicated piece of machinery. Getting a diesel to crank will require a number of parts to work together. Among the most vital systems on a diesel engine is the fuel injection....