Q: Car running lean

asked by on January 22, 2016

My car is running lean.

Hello! There are a few common things that can cause a vehicle to run lean. Most common would be a vacuum leak or oxygen sensor issue. A qualified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, can perform an inspection in order to pinpoint the issues that may be present.

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

Hesitation in second and third gear
I would recommend taking this to the dealership. There is a Technical Service Bulletin for the early Saab transmissions stating that there is a software update that can resolve this issue. I would have this issue taken care of sooner...
Gas pedal sticking
I have seen this issue before. Your gas pedal is connected to the throttle plate via a cable. If the throttle plate becomes dirty, it will get stuck (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/gas-pedal-is-stuck-inspection) and harder to move. You will feel this in the gas...
My compressor went out. Will that cause my engine to not operate?
Hello. If you have an engine that is cranking but not starting, then you need to look on dashboard to see if the theft light is flashing first. If it is, then try a different key to see if that...
How long will it take to replace door latch?
Hello, thanks for writing in. Depending on the vehicle and if the door can open from the inside. The labor is roughly about 1.5 hours. It may be more on some vehicles and models. I'd suggest adding in your car's...
My problem is Check Engine Light on. Cruise control does not work, loses power on hills, as if it does not want to pull hill.
Hi there. From the description you have provided, there is several possibilities for your vehicle's drivability problems. Your vehicle's Check Engine Light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) may help diagnose the lack of power and inoperative cruise control. Accessing the vehicle's computer for codes...
Car is running rich - 1990 Jeep Wrangler
Starting any engine in cold weather is never an easy task as they simply do not like cold weather and do not run well in it. When you first go to start your Jeep on a cold morning and turn...
96 cavalier not getting gas
Hi there: The fuel pump should be running at all times once the key in in the start position. The best way to diagnose fuel flow issues is to remove fuel lines at each connection, starting from the fuel pump....
Car idles and dies on cold start but starts when warm
It sounds like you may have a fuel supply problem in getting the proper amount of fuel to the fuel injectors. The fact that the condition gets better when using starting fluid also points toward a fuel supply problem. As...

Related articles

What Does It Mean When an Engine "Knocks"?
If your engine is making a knocking noise it means there's a problem. The wrong fuel octane, carbon buildup, and bad spark plugs can cause knocking.
4 Essential Things to Know About Running Out of Gas
While it would be nice if it wasn’t so, every vehicle can run out of gas. The good thing, however, is...
What Does the Low Fuel Level Warning Light Mean?
The low fuel level light warns you when your car is nearing an empty tank of gas. It should be refilled before driving several more miles.