Reasons for Poor Acceleration in an Impala
by Jen DavisIf your Chevrolet Impala is not accelerating properly, it could be due to any number of problems. The newer your vehicle is, the more components it contains that have to work together to provide ideal performance levels. If your Impala seems sluggish or does not want to go when you press the pedal, your best bet for diagnosing the precise problem is to take it to a mechanic.
Sensor Problems
If the oxygen sensor or mass airflow sensor on your vehicle goes out or malfunctions, it will affect the fuel-to-air mixture in your engine. If your fuel mixture has too little or too much fuel or air, your Impala's engine will not run properly. It may cough, sputter and not accelerate properly.
Engine Damage
If your engine overheats, it can cause damage and problems, such as a blown intake manifold gasket. This will make your vehicle overheat and not drive well. You will lose power in your engine and your Impala will not have its usual responsiveness when you press the accelerator.
Low Oil
If your engine runs low on oil, it will not be lubricated properly and can permanently damage a number of important engine components. If your Impala is sluggish, you may want to check the oil level to make sure the engine is well lubricated so it can run at peak performance levels.
Bad Fuel
Contaminated or poor quality gasoline can cause your Impala not to run properly. Its motor is designed to run on good quality gasoline and it needs clean, uncontaminated fuel to accelerate normally.
References
Writer Bio
Jen Davis has been writing since 2004. She has served as a newspaper reporter and her freelance articles have appeared in magazines such as "Horses Incorporated," "The Paisley Pony" and "Alabama Living." Davis earned her Bachelor of Arts in communication with a concentration in journalism from Berry College in Rome, Ga.
