Q: Car jerks and stalls

asked by on October 02, 2016

My car starts up fine, but when I put it in reverse or drive and press the gas pedal, the car jerks and then stalls. Could it be the fuel pump?

My car has 136200 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Car is stalling Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi, thanks for your question. This is a common situation when what is known as the mass airflow sensor needs to be upgraded, cleaned, or replaced. This is a unit that regulates air flow into the engine as it is mixed with fuel. When this is faulty or not working properly, this can cause an imbalanced load of air and fuel to be injected into the motor causing the intermittent or rough running and even stalling conditions you describe. I would recommend having an expert from Your Mechanic come to your home to diagnose the running condition of your car. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your home or office to confirm a diagnosis on the issue and make or suggest the necessary repairs or replacements.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What Do Electrochromatic Mirrors Do?
Electrochromatic mirrors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-are-electrochromatic-mirrors) are what can be termed as "automatic" day/night mirrors. These types of rear view mirrors have two sensors that detect light. One light sensor is on the back of the mirror (toward the windshield) that measures the...
How do I turn on or turn off the climate control system?
When the climate control system is turned off, then air from outside the vehicle will not enter the car’s cabin. To turn the climate control system on or off, press the Power button on the climate controls.
Changed out the alternator and battery. Car will not start without a jump.
This may be a sign of a failing voltage regulator. This is a unit that regulates the charging of the battery by the alternator. Often times this will result in the alternator allowing too much power to be delivered to...
I just got a P0087 code on my Mercedes.
Hi there. A fuel filter can cause a restriction in the fuel line if the filter is plugged up. If you are getting a P0087 code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0087-obd-ii-trouble-code-fuel-rail-system-pressure-too-low-by-spencer-clayton) for fuel pressure rail is low, then put a fuel pressure tester on...
Are the 2010 vw cc sport expensive to repair
It has been a long time since a Volkswagen has been an economy car. It is less expensive to maintain than a Mercedes, BMW or a Volvo. but will be more expensive than similar Japanese models. Especially the turbo models....
gear box has aproblem of sellection and my car has acceleration problem
Hello there. Thanks for your inquiry. Unfortunately, we can't really help resolve your issue due that your type of Nissan is not one that is sold here in the United States. We are unable to offer mechanical services on a...
Airplane sound while applying the brakes.
Hello, thank you for writing in. The noise you are hearing is very likely caused by the brake pads wearing down over time like they are designed to do. You are hearing the metal of the brake calipers rubbing on...
Blend door actuator spinning one direction
If you plugged in the actuator before installing it then you have ruined the new one and need to replace it then install it before you connect the electrical connector. The system will then relearn the positions.
My car jerks, hesitates, and has shut off at low speeds
An issue such as this would likely be associated with a check engine light. I would recommend having your vehicle inspected by a qualified professional to determine the exact cause of this issue. If any trouble codes exist in your...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Nissan Juke
The The 2012 Nissan Juke is part crossover, part sports car, and part radical looking car. It has five doors, folding rear seats, and a rear hatch for easy access to the cargo area. The seats fold flat offering extra...
A Buyer's Guide to the 2012 Nissan Titan
With With the 2012 Titan, Nissan continues its march into domestic territory. This model lives up to its name, but it’s also quite impressive inside as well. Even if you are in the market and wouldn’t normally consider a truck,...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Farmer
If If you're a farmer, you know that what you need isn’t a used car – it’s a used pickup truck. How else are you going to haul around hay, implements, garden produce, fertilizer, and all the other things you...