Easy step by step guide on how to repair an automotive engine that is surging, this information pertains to most vehicles and is listed in the order of popularity.
Difficulty Level - 5
Start with the vehcile on level ground, engine "OFF" in park with the emergency brake set, wear protective gloves and eye wear for safety.
Step 1 - If a check engine warning light has come "ON" while driving, the computer will need to have the trouble codes read to help fix the problem. Learn more
Step 2 - An engine's tune up is a regularly scheduled service, when this
service is neglected it can cause the engine to surge.
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Step 3 - If a fuel pump or regulator is failing is can cause an unsteady
volume or pressure for the fuel system causing the engine to surge.
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Step 4 - Some vehicles are equipped with an inline fuel filter, when this
filter become plugged it lowers fuel delivery creating an engine surge.
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Step 5 - If a vacuum line has caused a leak the engine will
surge, as vacuum lines age they can become brittle and fall off the engine or accessory.
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more
Step 6 - If an air intake boot becomes torn and develops a leak it will
cause the engine to surge. The air intake boot transfers engine intake air volume
into the throttle actuator.
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Step 7 - If a catalytic converter fails it can break apart causing partial blockage of the exhaust system. This unit is used as an emission control
device that incinerates unburnt gases in the exhaust system.
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more
Step 8 - When a clutch or clutches on a manual or automatic
transmission wear they can momentarily slip which causes a surging sensation. If
the clutch pedal is at the top of its travel with no free-play, this is a sign the
clutch assembly is worn. Sometimes an automatic transmission service can help by
replacing old burnt fluid.
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