Hesitation (Flat Spot On Acceleration)
Hesitation is a brief delay or stumble when the accelerator is pressed, before the engine picks up.
What is Hesitation (Flat Spot On Acceleration)?
It often feels like a stumble or flat spot when pulling away or overtaking. Dirty air flow sensors, throttle position sensor faults and vacuum leaks are common causes. Weak ignition coils and clogged injectors can also cause it. A recorded test drive with live data helps to find the cause.
How it works
For a moment the mixture or the spark is not right for the sudden change in load, so power is delayed.
Why it matters for your car
Compare live data such as air flow and fuel trims during acceleration. Clean sensors only with suitable sensor cleaner, never by touching the elements.
Other terms
- Air Quality Sensor
- Big Brake Kit
- Brake Blending
- Camper Van (Motorhome)
- Charging System Test
- Clearing Fault Codes
- Coil Spring Compressor
- Dielectric Grease
- Engine Swap
- Fuel Additive
- Fuel Tank
- Hydrogen Refuelling
- Key Not Detected Warning
- Key Programming
- NOx (Nitrogen Oxides)
- Safe Exit Warning (Exit Warning)
- Thrust Angle
- Timing Chain
- Torque
- Whiplash Protection (Active Head Restraints)