Engine Sputtering in Toyota Aqua: Possible Causes and Solutions?

Wa Alaikum Assalam,

May be youre dealing with intermittent engine sputtering, which could be caused by several factors. Given that it happens during acceleration o r when transitioning between EV and engine mode, it could be related to various parts of the engine o r hybrid system.

One potential cause could be spark plugs o r ignition coils. If the spark plugs are worn out o r the ignition coils are malfunctioning, they may cause misfires o r sputtering, especially when the engine is under load. In this case, the engine might struggle to maintain smooth combustion, resulting in sputtering during acceleration.

Another possibility is an issue with the hybrid system, particularly the electric motor o r its transition with the engine. If there’s a glitch in how the electric motor and gasoline engine switch between each other, you might experience sputtering o r hesitation during acceleration. It could be caused by a sensor o r an issue with the powertrain control module.

Fuel system issues are also worth checking, even though you’ve mentioned that the fuel seems fine. Clogged o r dirty fuel injectors can disrupt fuel delivery, leading to sputtering under load. Additionally, a dirty air filter o r a clogged mass air flow MAF sensor could impact engine performance, causing misfires and poor acceleration.

To troubleshoot:

Start by having the spark plugs and ignition coils checked and replaced if necessary.
Have the fuel injectors cleaned o r tested to ensure proper fuel delivery.
Consider getting a diagnostic check using an OBD-II scanner to check for any trouble codes related to the hybrid system o r sensors.
Ensure that the air filter is clean and check the MAF sensor for proper operation.

If youre not able to diagnose the issue yourself, it’s best to take the car to a mechanic o r a Toyota service center to get a thorough inspection, especially since this may involve both the hybrid system and internal engine components. Its important to address the issue early to avoid potential damage to the engine o r hybrid system.