Why Is My BMW Not Accelerating Properly?

If your BMW is struggling to accelerate, it can be disconcerting and inconvenient. But, why do cars sometimes hesitate to pick up speed? Many factors can contribute to a car's inability to gain momentum. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to spot the culprit before calling for assistance.

It is the ultimate goal of this blog post to help you figure out what may be causing acceleration problems in your BMW; so that you can take the appropriate action. So, without further ado, let’s get started.

BMW Not Accelerating Properly- Here’s What It Could Mean

Car engine not getting enough air

Disrupted air supply to the engine is usually the main culprit behind acceleration-related problems in a car. Want to know the reason behind it? Well, let me give you a little background information first.

Oxygen, scientifically known as 'oxidizer' - plays a vital role in the combustion of gasoline within the engine cylinder. In order to provide sufficient oxygen to the engine, there is a system in place. Among the major parts of that system is the throttle body, mass air flow sensor and air filter.

The Engine Control Module or ECM controls the airflow to the engine with the help of the throttle system. The MAF sensor and air filter play a detrimental role in this process. Malfunctions in the throttle system can cause the engine to be cut off from the air. No air means any oxygen - that is, no combustion inside the engine.

You have a fuel blockage

Fuel blockage can also prevent your car from picking up speed. In order to generate momentum, the engine needs a consistent yet controlled supply of fuel. Fuel is fed to the engine through a system that ensures the right amount is delivered.

Major components of that system are- the fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines and fuel injectors. Over time, the fuel pump can become weak. And, a fuel pump that isn't strong enough to keep up with the engine's fuel needs can cause many problems in a car- including acceleration-related issues.

Also, a clogged fuel filter and defective injector can result in a weak acceleration in a car. In any case, find and fix the component obstructing the fuel supply to the engine—before it becomes a bigger problem.

Car is in limp mode

Another likely reason for poor acceleration is that your car is in limp mode. For those who don't know, the limp mode is a kind of security feature that usually gets activated when the engine or transmission control module detects a problem.

The limp mode, when activated, will shut off auxiliary functions such as the AC system and restrict the engine revolutions to 2,000 to 3,000 rpm. Also, if your car is in limp mode, you won't be able to accelerate your vehicle beyond a certain speed limit.

There are several reasons why a car may revert to limp mode. Some of the most common ones are- a low coolant level, a declining oil level, an issue with the transmission, and electrical problems. In any case, if your car is in limp mode, seek help from a mechanic as soon as possible.

Car exhaust pipe clogged

If your car's exhaust system components become clogged, it will have trouble accelerating. The exhaust system, as the name implies, is responsible for getting rid of the by-products produced due to the combustion of the air-fuel mixture within the engine's combustion chamber.

Besides, it deploys components such as the catalytic converter to reduce the toxicity of engine emissions. And, deploys a muffler to reduce the intensity of engine noise. Over time, the exhaust system can become clogged with unburned hydrocarbons, rust, and debris. Increased back pressure due to a clogged exhaust can adversely affect engine performance.

BMW Not Accelerating Properly- Here’s What You Should Do

If your BMW is struggling to accelerate, this is a sign of trouble – which if left unchecked can lead to a host of problems. Thankfully, determining the cause of this problem is not that big of a deal. If you can’t find the defect, just take your BMW to a nearby car repair shop.

Let’s Wrap It Up

It is unsafe to drive a car that struggles to pick up speed. Many things can result in a poor acceleration in a car; ranging from a faulty fuel pump to a clogged catalytic converter. No matter what, this is something you should not ignore. You'll need to find and fix the culprit before anything serious happens.

Since 2000, Euro Automotive is a Bosch certified auto repair & service center specializes in luxury European repair services in North Dallas, TX since 2000. Serving with honesty, integrity and fair pricing.