Q: After oil change, car won't accelerate

asked by on June 24, 2016

After finishing changing the oil in my car, I drove it around the block and noticed that it was acting oddly. Then the problem got worse - it wouldn’t immediately accelerate. There was a shaking when it idled and it sounded louder. After getting back home, I immediately checked for too much oil, in case I had added too much and it was slightly above full. After draining around ½ quart of oil, the car restarted. But then it wouldn’t accelerate at all! I proceeded to change the spark plugs. So now, my car has new spark plugs, new oil change… but can’t drive it. It starts and the engine revs, but then won’t accelerate. So, I drained more oil, but this time only a few drips came out. Using a dipstick, it read that it was ‘just under full.’ What should I do next and what do you suggest will correct this problem?

Hello! From the pictures I’ve seen it seems like the drain plugs for the engine oil and the transmission fluid could be mixed up if not careful. Make sure the right fluid was changed by checking the level of the transmission fluid and verify the correct location of the engine oil drain plug.

Being that the vehicle will not drive if you may benefit from a mobile automotive repair service such as YourMechanic. They will send a professional technician to your location to assess the vehicle’s acceleration issue and get it back moving again.

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

What does it mean if the message center displays a warning saying “Blind spot system fault?”
If your car is equipped with a Blind Spot Information system (BLIS), which not all Ford Fusions do, it means that you have an additional aid in avoiding accidents. The system works to detect objects in your car’s blind spots,...
How do you attach a child seat with a tether?
While you can secure your child’s car seat with the seat belt in the back seat of the car, you can also attach a rear tether to provide additional security (the tether should be included from the manufacturer with the...
Losing power while driving
Hi. If by losing power you mean the car lacked power, it's unlikely the problem is with the charging system. Lack of power indicates an engine performance problem. This could be anything from a clogged catalytic converter to a worn...
No pressure on clutch pedal
The clutch hydraulic system would have to be checked first, to make sure it is moving the clutch pressure plate. If it is working properly, then your clutch pressure plate has a problem, and the transmission would need to come...
Heat/AC blower turns off and on
Hi there. Check the switch for any loose wires or shorts from the blower motor switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/blower-motor-switch-replacement) to the ignition switch. Check the condition of the wire connections for an corrosion and see if the wires are loose on the...
Multiple problems with the car I just purchased
Hi there. I am so sorry that this has happened to you. The Check Engine Light bulb needs to be replaced so that you know when the system sees a problem; you didn't know that you would fail the emissions...
There is a knocking noise an you can feel it by the petals at certain speeds mostly on the interstate , is my transmission going o
Hello, thank you for writing in. The vehicle may make these types of noises for many reasons. The most common issues relate to poorly maintained tires. Make sure your tires are in good condition, inflated properly, and balanced. Secondly, inspect...
Engine revs up and down when In park
Hi There, It sounds like you may have a dirty or faulty idle control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) which may be causing the engine RPM to fluctuate. This valve monitors the air flow into the engine and sends a signal to the...
My rickshaw does not starting I have mention that my auto rickshaw starting on button so something wrong with slap thanks
Hi there. You might want to consult a Rickshaw specialist as we don't service these vehicles.

Related articles

How to Prevent Motor Oil Sludge
Regular oil changing in your car helps prevent sludge. Motor oil sludge can cause worse gas mileage, low oil pressure, and damage to engine parts.
Does the Viscosity of Your Oil Affect the Filter You Should Use?
Most Most people who drive a vehicle know that an engine needs oil to operate smoothly. Oil lubricates the various surfaces and components of the engine’s system to help it run as efficiently as possible. Not everyone, however, knows that...
How Long Does an Ignition Cable (Spark plug wires) Last?
The The ignition of a car is an essential part of a good running engine. Each time that you turn the key of your car over to crank it, the ignition wires will have to transfer the electricity from the...