1986 325e won't accelerate.

[Sejob]

I just bought my first project car, a 1986 325e. Automatic.
The car starts up fine with no problem but when I try to accelerate, it doesn't go anywhere maybe like 5mph... Even if my foot is flooring the gas pedal, sometimes it will get going but no faster than 10-15mph. I was told it might be a Mass Air Flow sensor, but I'm not sure I'm still learning this is my first build. Thank you.

[JFarhanbod]

sounds like a transmission issue, ill have one for sale soon if youre interested

[Dakotademon7]

Need more info. Does the engine rev up ?

[Lake]

Need more info ... Noises? Reving?

[Sejob]

Yeah it revs up and rpms go up aswell, there's a horrible sound coming from my catlytic converter, and also when I start it up you can smell the gas from the car super strong.

[THQ]

I had this issue.

Mass air flow sensor fixed it.

Does it chug if you try to fluctuate the pedal? Grab one from the junkyard for $40, is what I did. The 5 series ETA fits it too.

Good luck!

[Sejob]

Yeah man it chugs and gallops, so a new MAF should do the trick?

[squidmaster]

Just so you know, your car doesn't have a MAF, it has an AFM. That is a likely cause however. Could also be bad fueling (filter, pump, injectors, etc). But try the AFM first.

[Lake]

Just so you know, your car doesn't have a MAF, it has an AFM. That is a likely cause however. Could also be bad fueling (filter, pump, injectors, etc). But try the AFM first.

^^

[Sejob]

Ok cool thanks guys I'll try this, I appreciate all the help everyone responded quickly!

[Dakotademon7]

Did this car sit for some time ? Did you open the air box to check for a mouse nest ?