Q: If I take my foot up off the as it might shoot forward

asked by on November 03, 2015

I have a 2011 Subaru Forester with an automatic transmission. This car now has a very scary problem where it actually accelerates a little when I take my foot off of the gas and put it down on the brake. At first I thought the brakes were too rough and making the car lurch to a stop. Turns out it is actually way worse! What do I do about this? Is this thing even safe to drive? I hope it isn’t a lemon, I only have 21,000 miles on it.

Hello! Thank you for writing in with this question and concern. A surge like this could be caused by any number of electrical sensors (intake temperature sensor, throttle position sensor, etc.). It could also be caused by a mechanical malfunction in the fuel system (pump or injectors). Does the Check Engine Light illuminate? If so, a professional from YourMechanic can scan the vehicle computers for codes to track down the problem.

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

Rear tailgate doesn't lock properly and opens while driving
Hello. It sounds like the first step is to have the rear tailgate ajar switch replaced. Then, have the rear tailgate latch adjusted so the door will close properly. It is also possible that the rear tailgate support shocks aren’t...
Shaking while stopped, difficult acceleration, sudden takeoff
It sounds like you may be experiencing an engine misfire. When a cylinder in your engine is misfiring, it will throw off the balance of the running engine. As a result, vibrations can be felt throughout the vehicle. This would...
Can my antifreeze leak be linked to my transmission problem?
Hi there. You will need to first find the coolant leak and address the leak and get it fixed. The engine may overheat and cause even more problems. The transmission or engine misfires could be from the coolant leak if...
Possible issue with the shift solenoid or TCM?
It could be either one and it's impossible to say without inspecting the car. The difference between the O'Reilly diagnosis and the dealer's is probably one of equipment. O'Reilly uses a generic OBD-II scanner and the dealer should be using...
Need to locate the oil filter on a 2001 Oldsmobile Silhouette
Hi there. Although this video is for an Alero, the motor on your Silhouette is identical. You can watch the video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TG2wgLLtzo) to see where the filter is located and how to remove.
2014 Nissan Alltima 53,000 miles, had brakes replacedo about 16 months ago, now I am told I need brakes again?? $720.00 This does
Brake pads are replaced when the amount of friction material on the pad falls below a certain minimum depth, generally around 1 to 2 millimeter depth of pad material. You should first confirm that the pads are actually worn to...
Code reads Cat is bad. 2nd light came on saying issue with Trans/ throttle. Can one have to do with the other? Is it worth fixing
The catalytic converter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/catalytic-converter-replacement) converts toxic exhaust gases into less harmful pollutants that are suitable to be expelled into the atmosphere. When the catalytic converter is clogged, this causes these gases to be backed up into the exhaust system not...
If u replace one motor mount should u do the rest?
Hi Kara. Thanks for contacting us tonight. When you replace one motor mount, it is best practices to replace them all at the same time, as the others will quickly break if not replaced.
Car will not start new battery
You will need to have battery fully charged and then have charging system tested. If jump starting the car does not let the engine start then you may have a starter or theft system problem and would need further tests...

Related articles

Top 10 Bad Driving Habits That Damage Your Car
Even the best drivers are guilty of bad driving habits. Riding the brakes, not warming up the engine, and ignoring warning signs will damage your car.
How to Replace a Brake Wheel Cylinder
The wheel cylinder on the brake system fails if the brakes are mushy, they respond poorly, or there is leaking brake fluid.
Top 3 Reasons Brake Dust Shields are Necessary
Brake dust shields reduce the buildup of road grime, extend brake system life, and prevent premature failure.