Why is my BMW 2 Series engine sputtering during acceleration, especially in traffic?

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Why is my BMW 2 Series engine sputtering during acceleration, especially in traffic?

I have a BMW 218i 2017 model in Lahore, and recently the engine has started sputtering when I accelerate, especially in stop-and-go traffic o r under load like going uphill. It feels like the engine hesitates o r misfires briefly before picking up speed. I’ve already cleaned the throttle body and changed the air filter, but the problem still comes back. Could this be due to fuel quality o r ignition coil issues? Is this a common issue in Pakistan?

Talha Kyanii asked on 13 Sep 2025 15:39:17 pm

1 Answer

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Gari Master - on 13 Sep 2025 15:41:45 pm

Sputtering during acceleration in your BMW 218i especially in congested traffic o r under load is a fairly common issue in Pakistan, and its usually caused by a few key factors:

🔧 Common Causes:

Weak Ignition Coils o r Spark Plugs
BMWs are sensitive to spark quality. In hot climates like Lahore, ignition coils can degrade faster due to heat. Misfiring under load is a classic symptom of a failing coil o r worn spark plug.

Fuel Injector Issues
Dirty o r clogged fuel injectors are common in Pakistan due to variable petrol quality. If the injectors aren’t spraying evenly, you’ll feel sputtering during acceleration.

Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
BMW’s direct injection engines especially 1.5L and 2.0L petrol variants are known to suffer from carbon buildup. This reduces airflow and causes uneven combustion.

Bad Fuel Quality
Low-octane o r adulterated fuel common in many pumps across Pakistan can cause knocking, hesitation, o r sputtering. BMWs require high-quality fuel to run smoothly.

✅ Recommendations:

Run a diagnostic scan using BMW-specific tools ISTA/D o r Launch to check for misfire codes like P0300 series.

Replace ignition coils and spark plugs if they haven’t been changed in 30,000–40,000 km.

Use a fuel injector cleaning service o r try a trusted additive like Liqui Moly Fuel System Cleaner.

Stick to PSO, Shell V-Power, o r Total Excellium fuel from high-traffic stations to minimize the risk of dirty fuel.

If the issue persists, consider a carbon cleaning walnut blasting service at a specialized European car workshop.