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What makes a car sputter?

Several factors can cause a car to sputter:

1. Lack of fuel: If your car is not getting enough fuel, it will sputter and eventually stall. This can be due to a clogged fuel filter, a faulty fuel pump, or a problem with the fuel injectors.

2. Clogged air filter: A clogged air filter restricts the airflow into the engine, causing the engine to run lean (too much air, not enough fuel). This can cause sputtering, hesitation, and reduced power.

3. Faulty spark plugs or ignition problems: If your spark plugs are worn out or damaged, or if the ignition system is malfunctioning, it can cause the engine to misfire, resulting in sputtering.

4. Vacuum leak: A vacuum leak can cause a loss of vacuum pressure, which can affect the air-fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly, leading to sputtering.

5. Malfunctioning fuel pressure regulator: The fuel pressure regulator controls the amount of fuel pressure in the fuel system. If it is malfunctioning, it can cause the fuel pressure to be too high or too low, leading to sputtering.

6. Throttle body issues: A dirty or malfunctioning throttle body can affect the airflow and fuel delivery, causing the engine to run poorly and sputter.

7. Faulty sensors: Various sensors in the engine management system, such as the oxygen sensor, mass airflow sensor, or crankshaft position sensor, can provide incorrect data to the engine control unit (ECU), leading to improper air-fuel mixture and engine sputtering.

8. Timing chain or belt issues: If the timing chain or belt is worn out, stretched, or misaligned, it can affect the valve timing and cause the engine to run poorly and sputter.