Engine Surging: Causes and Solutions

10/02/2024 Poor Performance
Engine Surging On Tachometer
Engine Surging On Tachometer

Engine surging, will cause the engine to momentarily lose (rpms). Then, suddenly regains normal engine speed.

So, engine surging can affect drivability. And, can also cause error codes to appear in your OBD-II system.

Consequently, these codes can cause you to fail, your local vehicle inspection. And, at the very least can result in that very annoying, check engine light (CEL) coming on.

So, Engine Surging, can be included in other categories as well. Some are, Bogging Down, Misfires, Stalling, and even Rough Idling Issues. So, to help avoid engine surging, performing maintenance tasks on time is very important.

Common Maintenance Tasks Include:

  • Replacing worn spark plugs
  • Inspecting plug wires
  • Replacing an old partially clogged fuel filter

Because, any one of these can make a huge difference, in how well your engine is running. However, engine surging will usually come back, either under specific operating conditions, or randomly. Also, an engine misfire code may occur when your engine is surging, running rough or has an uneven idle.

So, having an engine that performs well, can save you a bundle of money. Even one hour of diagnostic time at your local repair shop, can put a large hole in your wallet. So, the list of possible causes below, should give you a better idea, of what’s causing your engine surging.

Possible Engine Codes For, Engine Surging, Or Engine Misfire

So, If You See A Symptom That Looks Familiar, Read On To Find Out What A Possible Fix Can Be:

  • P0300       Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
  • P0301       Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
  • P0302       Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected
  • P0303       Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected
  • P0304       Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected
  • P0305       Cylinder 5 Misfire Detected
  • P0306       Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected
  • P0307       Cylinder 7 Misfire Detected
  • P0308       Cylinder 8 Misfire Detected
  • P0309       Cylinder 9 Misfire Detected
  • P0310       Cylinder 10 Misfire Detected
  • P0311       Cylinder 11 Misfire Detected
  • P0312       Cylinder 12 Misfire Detected

Symptoms And Possible Causes:

Symptom

While you are moving the engine is surging or misfiring. But, the engine seems to start fine, and will normally accelerate fine. While driving at a steady speed, the engine seems to “speed up” slightly or it seems to miss and buck.

So, Any Of The Following Could Be The Possible Cause Of Engine Surging:

If you have a carburetor, the choke may not be set properly.

  • Check the choke plate, and make sure it is opening completely.

The engine may be running, too hot.

  • Check and repair, the cooling system.

The fuel pressure regulator may be operating at, low pressure.

  • Check fuel pressure with a fuel pressure gauge. Replace fuel pressure regulator if needed.

Your ignition timing may be set incorrectly.

  • Check, and adjust ignition timing.

Ignition system problem causing a, weak spark.

  • So, if your engine has a distributor, check and replace distributor cap, rotor, ignition wires and spark plugs. And, you should also have the coil packs checked. Furthermore, there may be a fault in the computerized engine control system. So, check engine control systems with a scan tool. Finally, test circuits and repair or replace components as required.

The fuel filter may be partially, clogged. A common cause of engine surging.

  • Consequently, this is a easy and cheap fix. Replace, the fuel filter.

Torque converter (automatic transmission only) may not be locking up at the right time, or it may be slipping.

  • So, check the lock up circuit, and replace torque converter if needed.

There may be a vacuum leak, a common cause of engine surging.

  • Check for vacuum leaks. Above all, this must include the intake manifold. Also, check and replace vacuum lines as required.

Possible internal engine problems.

  • First, check engine compression to determine engine condition. You may also consider doing a cylinder leak down test.

The (EGR) valve could be, stuck open.

  • Clean or replace (EGR) valve.

You may have loose or worn drive axles.

  • Check and replace CV/universal joints as required.

The fuel injectors may be, dirty.

  • Clean or replace, fuel injectors.

Conclusion

So, some symptoms may vary from vehicle to vehicle, due to varying device designs. But, generally these symptoms apply. Consequently, engine Surging, Hesitation or Misfiring, could be just the start of your problems. Finally, that’s why having an engine that performs well, will save you money.

BY DANNY BENDER

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