How to solve a problem with a car that does not respond to the gas pedal

The accelerator pedals of a car control the speed of the car. Check the throttle and pedal first, then the fuel filter and fuel pump if the pedal does not respond.

The gas pedal is a simple link connecting the rider to the more complex throttle and throttle body. It is through this connection that the throttle or computer makes all its adjustments based on the driver's speed requirements. If the connection is not responding, several factors can be the cause. Here, depending on the make and model of your car, we can start diagnosing and recommend repairs for your unresponsive gas pedal. Always remember that when diagnosing any problem, start with the most common problems first.

• AttentionA: Please be aware that not all steps and sections of the manual apply to your specific make and model. There are many designs of butterfly valves and many different parts that come with them.

Part 1 of 2: Visually inspect the gas pedal

On initial inspection, there are several issues that will have defects visible to the naked eye. Always start with simpler fixes before moving on to the worst case scenario.

Step 1: Look for visible gas pedal obstructions. Look for any obstacles or objects that interfere with the pedals. Is there anything under the pedal? Got tangled along the way? Move the floor mat away and make sure it doesn't cause resistance.

Step 2: Look for visible obstructions to the throttle.. Open the hood and find the throttle body. The throttle body can be opened, while access to some parts will require removal.

Look for physical matter, excessive buildup of sludge, some kind of obstruction, or a broken throttle body.

Step 3: Look for visible damage or deformation in the system. Look at the connection on the drive side of the firewall to make sure the connection is straight and aligned correctly.

Look at the linkage in the engine bay to make sure the throttle linkage is straight, undamaged and tight. Any additional slack, kinks, or breaks in the linkage will cause various throttle problems.

Assuming the throttle body, cable, and pedal are working properly, you will need to take a deeper look at the system and its components to diagnose a non-responsive gas pedal. The following are some common problems that cause similar symptoms.

Part 2 of 2. Consider the most common problems

Without any major defects in the throttle body components, your problem(s) will most likely be related to something that is harder to pinpoint. The quickest way to diagnose a problem is to troubleshoot the following components. You may be able to rule out new parts that have been recently replaced or components that you know are working properly.

If you haven't done so, scan the OBD codes so they can guide you in the right direction. You can do this at most auto parts stores across the country.

Step 1. Pay attention to the throttle position sensor.. A dirty or clogged throttle position sensor will not give an accurate reading and will not produce accurate output for the computer to use. This can lead to dangerous consequences for the driver.

They are usually available and can be cleaned. If this is the cause of your problems, a simple cleanup will suffice. In the worst case, you will have to change the entire block.

Step 2: Check if the fuel filter is clogged.. A clogged fuel filter will prevent the correct amount of fuel from reaching the engine in time. The driver can step on the gas pedal and all the throttle components can demand the right amount of fuel, but the pump encounters resistance at the filter and cannot pass flow to the engine.

If the fuel filter is clogged, the only repair that can be done is to replace the filter. These are maintenance-free units.

Step 3. Check up serviceability of the fuel pump.. A faulty fuel pump will not supply the required gasoline to the lines and engine. Again, if this is the case, all of the throttle components may be working properly, but they don't seem to be responding.

To repair the fuel pump, you will need to reset the tank or access it through the access panel (if available). Look at the condition of the pump and make sure there are no major blockages in the inlet. Assuming the pump is clean and faulty, you need to replace the entire fuel module. Older vehicles may have a separate pump, but in most modern vehicles, all parts are combined into one module.

Step 4: Check the Mass Air Flow Sensor. The mass air flow sensor will tell the computer how much air is entering the engine in order to match it with the proper amount of fuel. The fuel/air mixture is critical to engine performance. If the sensor is faulty and the wrong amount of air and fuel is being supplied to the engine, driver demands will have little control over the engine. It can come off like a refractory gas pedal.

They are not normally serviceable, but should be replaced if they fail. This can be done easily and will probably need to be done on an aging car.

Step 5: Look at the electronic throttle control module.. Electronic throttle control module failures are one of the most common problems when dealing with an unresponsive gas pedal.

This is a sensor that reads how hard you press the gas pedal and outputs this information to a computer that controls the throttle. This information is also used to calculate ignition timing and other components.

If the module is faulty, the car will operate in "automatic mode". This is a feature that allows the vehicle to drive at low speed to get out of dangerous areas. There are other symptoms that cause similar throttle problems.

If the electronic throttle control module has failed, you will need to replace one or all of the components involved. Further testing is needed. Home repair of these systems is not recommended.

An unresponsive gas pedal can be very frustrating and leave you asking a lot of questions. With the right knowledge, a confusing problem can become crystal clear. If your vehicle is in limp mode or not running, have a professional mechanic like AvtoTachki inspect your gas pedal.