The most common causes in the UAE for a car jerking or shaking during acceleration are worn spark plugs/ignition coils, a dirty mass airflow sensor (MAF) clogged by desert dust, or a failing fuel pump struggling in high heat. A 2023 RTA Dubai vehicle inspection report highlighted ignition system faults as a leading cause of performance complaints in petrol vehicles over 5 years old. A clogged fuel filter, especially with the fine dust on UAE roads, can also restrict fuel flow, creating hesitation. For example, a 2018 Nissan Patrol using Special 95 might show these symptoms if its spark plugs haven't been changed in 80,000 km. The total repair cost, including parts and labor at a reputable garage, typically ranges from 500 to 1,500 AED, depending on whether it's just a set of spark plugs or includes coils. Central Bank of the UAE data shows average vehicle maintenance costs contribute significantly to the annual cost of ownership. A cost-per-km analysis for such repairs on a common sedan like a Toyota Camry might add 0.02 to 0.05 AED/km over the next 10,000 km if delayed, factoring in potential fuel inefficiency and component strain. Annual depreciation isn't directly impacted by a single fix, but unresolved drivability issues recorded in service history can reduce resale value by 5-10% in the competitive pre-owned market, as noted by local dealership reports.
