Symptoms of a Faulty or Faulty Accelerator Pump

If you experience hard acceleration and the engine stalls or stalls, you may need to replace the accelerator pump.

The accelerator pump is a component of the carburetor. This is commonly seen on many older cars fitted with carburetors. The accelerator pump is responsible for supplying the instantaneous extra fuel needed in high acceleration conditions. When the pedal is pressed hard, the throttle suddenly opens, immediately adding extra air for extra power. This extra air requires extra fuel, especially at certain points after the throttle is opened, this fuel is provided by the accelerator pump. When the throttle is quickly opened, the accelerator pump injects a small amount of fuel into the carburetor throat so that the engine can continue to run smoothly under increased load. Usually, when the accelerator pump is having problems, it displays several symptoms that can alert the driver to a possible problem that should be checked.

Rough acceleration

One of the most common symptoms of a bad accelerator pump is harsh or sluggish acceleration. The accelerator pump is supposed to provide the extra fuel needed during acceleration. If there is any problem with the pump, then there will be a problem in the fuel mixture during acceleration. Typically, a faulty accelerator pump results in an instantaneous lean mixture that can result in harsh or sluggish acceleration and even misfiring.

Engine stalls or stalls

Another sign of a bad accelerator pump is sneezing or engine stalling. Splashing is caused by a lack of fuel, which should be provided by the accelerator pump when the gas pedal is sharply pressed. In more severe cases of accelerator pump failure, rapidly stepping on the gas can cause the engine to stall, again due to the lean mixture that can occur when the accelerator pump is not running.

A failing accelerator pump will usually have a noticeable effect on engine performance when it fails or has problems. If you suspect that your accelerator pump may have a problem, take the car to a professional specialist, for example, one of AvtoTachki, for diagnostics. If necessary, they will be able to replace your accelerator pump and restore the normal operation of your car.