PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
Why does my RPM go up and down while driving?
My car has been acting weird lately. I’ll be driving normally and the RPM will be all over the place—even though I’m not changing anything! Why does my RPM go up and down while driving?
Brittni Brinn · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Here are some possible reasons your RPM is going up and down while driving:
- Worn-outspark plugs
- Vacuum leaks
- Bad idle air control valve
- Malfunctioning throttle pedal position sensor
- Dirtyfuel injectors
- Issues with the transmission
It will be a quick fix if it’s something like worn-out spark plugs. However, a fluctuating RPM could indicate a more serious problem with your fuel or transmission systems.
It’s best to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible so the problem doesn’t get worse.
MORE: Should you take your car to a repair shop or a mobile mechanic?
View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance for Your Car
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies