Symptoms of Failing Accelerator Cable

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Symptoms of Failing Accelerator Cable
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Generally, most of the new cars use
drive-by-wire electronic throttle control,
physical accelerator cables are still commonly
found on many cars out on the road.
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An accelerator cable is a metal braided cable
that serves as a mechanical link between the gas
pedal and the engine's throttle plate.
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As the throttle controls the power of the
vehicle, any issues with the cable can quickly
translate into problems with the drivability of
the vehicle.
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The most common problem associated with the
accelerator cable is that they break. In the long
run, they simply weaken with age and use, until
they eventually snap.
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It is also not unusual for them to come out of
adjustment, to the point where a noticeable
effect is produced, which affects the drivability
of the vehicle.
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There will be few symptoms displayed when the
accelerator cable is having a problem.

• Damage to the outer covering

• Delayed accelerator response time

• Issues with cruise control

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Damage to the outer covering
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The accelerator cable on most cars is covered by
an outer rubber sheath that protects the braided
metal cable outside.
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Sometimes the cable can come in contact with
sharp edges or moving engine components that can
wear into the sides of the covering.
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If you notice any damage or wear on the
covering, then there is a possibility that the
metal cable inside has received damage.
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As the cable is under constant stress any damage
to the cable can leave it more susceptible to
breaking.
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Delayed accelerator response time
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When the gas pedal is depressed, the engine
should respond immediately and the vehicle should
begin to accelerate.
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When you press the pedal if there is delayed
response or a significant amount of motion before
the vehicle responds, then that is the sign of a
problem.
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Sometimes, a cable can get stretched over time,
which not only delays the response of the
throttle but can leave the cable more susceptible
to breaking.
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Delayed response may also be indicative of the
need to have the cable slack adjusted.
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Issues with cruise control
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Most of the cable operated throttles also use a
cable for the cruise control, if you experience
any issues while using the cruise control, that
may be the sign of a problem.
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If you notice any sudden changes in tension from
the pedal, such as jerking or binding when you
activate the cruise control, that is also a sign
of a problem with the accelerator cable.
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As both the cables are connected to the same
throttle body, any problems with the operation of
one can affect the other.
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Finally
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The accelerator cable is the thing that allows
the engine to accelerate, any problems with it
can greatly affect the performance of the vehicle.
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If you suspect that, you may have a problem with
your throttle cable, then have it inspected by a
professional technician.
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