Q: My car has been driving funny. When I pull off it hesitates..like it doesn't have enough power.

asked by on April 14, 2016

My car has been driving funny. When I pull off it hesitates and jerks..like it doesn't have enough power. Once it "catches" it drives fine. This only happens when I initially pull off as I am going slow or if I stop at a red light/stop sign and then pull off. Lately it also started making a rattling noise. I had my spark plugs checked and they are fine. My dad thinks it could be the TPS sensor.

My car has 170000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

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

It may be your TPS like your father said, but tests would need to be done to diagnose it. If you have codes in the computer it would help with the diagnosis. The TPS is not a common problem with this car, but the exhaust gas valve sensor is a common problem and could cause the jerking you are feeling and the knocking noise you are hearing. Only a computer test and diagnostic check could verify the problems and the failed part. I recommend having a certified mechanic like one from YourMechanic to come and diagnose why your car is hesitating during acceleration and fix the problem 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

Oil leaking from my car.
I would suggest you get some help from a mechanic to inspect your motor oil (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-level-is-low-inspection).
What does the security Warning Light mean?
The security Warning Light is located on your instrument panel. When the security Warning Light is illuminated, that means that the theft-deterrent system may not be working properly. Tip Like all warning lights, the security Warning Light will briefly illuminate...
why wont my car pass smog
There are many components that work together to ensure your vehicle produces low emissions. It can be something as simple as a vacuum leak or faulty PCV valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/positive-crankcase-ventilation-pcv-valve-replacement), or even a faulty oxygen sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oxygen-sensor-replacement) or catalytic converter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/catalytic-converter-replacement)....
Should a warped cylinder be caught in a diagnostic inspection?
Hey there. It sounds like you had an alternator problem and it was replaced. Then the water pump went out and you overheated the engine. When you blew the water pump, the mechanic could not check to see if the...
Acura RDX 2010-check engine oil light
Hi there. The oil smoke seen, should have had a bluish tint and did not quickly dissipate. There are several possibilities for engine oil consumption. The most likely cause for your engine, is a failed oil seal in the turbocharger....
Hi I have a 2001 s10 that seems to have a wiring issue or something.
Hi there. Check the battery and make sure that it can hold a charge. Even though a battery can have 12.6 volts, it could have a bad cell causing a large draw. Place the battery on a load and see...
Retainer clip problem on rear end 2003 Dodge Ram 1500
Hi there - while not an epidemic problem, rear ends that are "worked" harder (i.e. trailer towing, off-road, etc.) or simply high mileage such as yours will see this problem. There is enough of a side load on these clips...
Stuck throttle when driving. 1997 Ford Ranger
Hi there - first task is to check for problem codes, whether the Check Engine light is on or not. Most auto parts stores will do this for you for free on a "time-available" basis. Check to see if the...
My car will not move while I put it in Gear
Hi Francisco. If you can feel the vehicle shift into gear after moving the shifter into a forward gear, then it's likely that there is internal damage inside the transmission. However, if you move the shifter but nothing appears to...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Wedding Planner
As As a wedding planner, the demands placed on your time are going to be significant, even if you’re only dealing with one or two couples. You need to be a master juggler when it comes to your time and...
The Best Used Cars to Buy for College Students
You’ve You’ve done it – high school is officially behind you. Now it’s time to head off to a brand new world. College is that and more and you may need a car during your pursuit of a higher education....
The Most and Least Expensive Cars to Insure
Car insurance quotes depend on the car make and model. The Honda Odyssey is the least expensive and the Dodge Viper is the most expensive to insure.