Q: Car hesitates after stepping on gas pedal

asked by on March 06, 2016

When I step on the gas from a red light or stop sign, the car will hesitate for 2-3 seconds before moving forward and the problem seems to be worsening. Once the car's in motion it's fine until I need to stop again. What's causing this problem and is it an expensive fix??

My car has 114000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Engine hesitates during acceleration Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

The problem sound like you are getting an engine misfire.One or more of the engine cylinders are misfiring due to a weak ignition coil or one or more of the spark plugs or spark plug wires are failing. You did not mention if the Check Engine Light is coming on or not? If the light is coming on then a scan of the computer will indicate a possible cylinder that is causing the problem. I recommend having a mechanic, like one from YourMechanic, inspect the vehicle to determine the cause of the hesitation issue. From there, they will be able to make the appropriate repairs to have this problem solved.

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

Emergency brake seized up
On a drum brake setup, the parking brake is integrated with the service brakes. If the parking brake has failed, other parts of the rear brake system will also require replacement as the same part may be used for two...
jerking when you get up past 45mph and is shutting off
Hello. If the engine is misfiring and shutting off at this speed, then that can be caused by a number of issues. Most of the time, this is caused by a failing distributor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/distributor-rotor-and-cap-replacement). These are a common problems on...
Issue with AC after timing chain replacement?
My vote is for coincidence. The temperature blend door actuators are a pretty common failure item on these models as well as timing chain concerns. The temperature blend door actuator is mounted inside the dashboard while the timing chain replacement...
Is a high RPM maintained all-throughout a ride normal?
Hello. The first thing you should do now that a warning light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) has illuminated is to have the vehicle scanned for diagnostic troubleshooting codes. These codes will tell you what system (air, fuel, or spark) the computer is having...
2013 Chevy Cruze gear shifter was pulled out of park without brake pedal being applied now it will flow through all gears without the brakes.
Hi there. If the shifter is able to move without the brakes being pressed, then the brake switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/neutral-safety-switch-replacement) (which also has the neutral safety switch built in it) in not working. Check the harness to the switch and see...
My headlights, blinkers, and brake lights work but the taillights, interior lights, and dash lights don't work. All fuses, relays, and switches are good.
Hi there. There is either a break in the wiring on the lighting circuits for the main light switch or the ground wire to the main light switch for the running lights is loose or not hooked up. Check the...
I got my car check out and the codes come up was P0171,P0431,and P0174. How much will all this will be so I can start driving my c
Codes P0171 and P0174 indicate the engine control unit is detecting the engine is running too lean - too much air and not enough fuel. P0431 indicates the catalytic converter is not operating at peak efficiency - not cleaning up...
Cleaned air mass flow light was red . now unplugged or plugged in . started noticing car was dying at red lights and stumbled high
It should be safe to drive a short distance to purchase a Mass Air sensor. As long as the engine is not stalling or overheating and take it easy driving you should be fine.
Abs light on wont come out of limp mode
The ABS refers to the anti lock braking system. When the light is on it doesn't mean you don't have any brakes, It means that the automatic system that keeps the brakes from locking up when you are on a...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2013 Infiniti JX35
Designed Designed for those who need plenty of seating capacity but don’t want to drive a minivan, the 2013 Infiniti JX35 hits the mark for luxury vehicles in its class. With innovations that chosen for their convenience and safety, this...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Infiniti QX56
If If you want an SUV that offers comfortable seating for the entire family, a luxuriously smooth, enjoyable ride and the ability to tow all those toys when you go on vacation, the 2012 Infiniti QX56 might be your answer....
Infiniti Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
Drivers Drivers who are in the market for a used Infiniti vehicle may want to check out cars under their certified pre-owned program. Many manufacturers have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, and each one is set up differently. Read on...