If My Car Started but Wouldnt Stay Running and Then Starts Again Can I Drive

Dan Ferrell writes about do-it-yourself machine maintenance and repair. He has certifications in automation and control applied science.

An engine stall status tin can be caused by many different systems or components.

Photograph License: CC0 Public Domain

When your machine engine starts but stops subsequently, whether immediately or after a few minutes, there could be i or more than specific systems or components behind the failure. For example:

• the ignition or injection system
• a low idle speed in demand of adjustment
• a maladjusted carburetor
• vacuum leaks
• one or more than bad sensors

To brand matters worse, stalling may happen under one or more than operating conditions. For example, the engine may:

• stall as shortly equally it starts
• stall during idle
• stall when warm
• stall intermittently under any condition

The conditions associated with your stalling problem will requite you clues every bit to what systems or components are causing your trouble.

So the best way to start your diagnostic is to identify, when possible, the atmospheric condition under which the stalling occurs, and focus your attention on those systems or components associated with the failure under that item condition.

How to Investigate and Diagnose Your Problem

The following sections discuss different operating conditions associated with stalling, and which systems and components are most probable to cause stalling under those conditions. The concluding department focuses on what to do when stalling happens intermittently and seemingly randomly.

So, start by checking those components or systems in the department that best describes your detail engine problem, and and so, if necessary, move on to systems or components described in other sections, especially if you suspect these systems need maintenance or accept given you lot issues in the past. This approach will brand it easier for y'all to diagnose the problem much faster and will work in nearly cases.

Check for Codes

Also, exist certain to check the computer arrangement for any diagnostic problem codes (DTCs) that might be stored in memory, whether the "check engine" low-cal has come up on or not. 1 or more sensors may have triggered a pending code. If you don't have a scanner tool, you may exist able to take your vehicle to a local motorcar parts store to become the codes retrieved, or the shop may lend you lot the scanner. Ameliorate still, buy a relatively inexpensive but quality automotive scanner from your local automobile parts store or online.

A Tip: The Anti-Theft System

If you lot've seen the anti-theft light blinking recently, brand sure the anti-theft system is working properly. The system itself tin can be the source of the problem. Sometimes y'all need to reset the organisation (make the system go through a re-learning procedure) to become the engine working right again. If necessary, consult your vehicle repair manual.

Index
I. If Your Engine Stops Immediately After Information technology Starts
Ii. If the Engine Stalls at Idle
III. If the Engine Stalls at Idle Unless Y'all Printing the Accelerator
Four. If the Engine Starts When Cold but Stops When Warm
5. If the Engine Stalls Intermittently

Your engine may stop as presently as you let the key return from the Start to the Run position. Almost of the fourth dimension, this condition points to a badly clogged fuel filter or an ignition switch in demand of aligning or with worn/burned contacts.

A quick examination to meet if you take a problem with the fuel organisation is by using carburetor cleaner or starting fluid:

1. Advisedly disconnect the air cleaner outlet tube from the throttle body.
2. Inquire an banana to get-go the engine.
3. Equally soon equally the engine catches and the ignition key returns to the Run position, spray some carburetor cleaner into the throttle body.
4. If the engine idles momentarily with the carburetor cleaner, there may be a problem with fuel delivery.

The problem can be with the fuel filter, fuel pump, ballast resistor, or fuel pressure regulator.

Commencement with the fuel filter. When was the last time you replaced the filter? Cheque the fuel filter service interval in your car possessor'southward transmission or repair transmission. If the fuel arrangement uses an in-line filter:

• Remove the filter.
• Blow through the filter in the direction of fuel menstruation.
• If air goes through with difficulty, or non at all, there'due south your problem

Ringlet to Continue

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When necessary, employ a fuel pressure gauge to check system pressure. Follow the instructions in your vehicle repair transmission. If you don't have the manual, you tin can purchase an cheap, aftermarket copy at your local auto parts store or online.

Other components that can cause y'all trouble are:

• fuel pump
• fuel injectors
• engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor (run into the next department)
• fuel force per unit area regulator
• crankshaft position (CKP) sensor

Usually, a bad CKP volition trigger the check engine light (CEL). So scan the computer for DTCs if you oasis't done so yet.

To do a quick check for potential CKP bug:

• While, cranking the engine, pay attention to the tachometer on your dashboard.
• If the RPMs remain at nil, this may betoken to a trouble with the CKP sensor.

Check your vehicle repair manual to help you test the crankshaft sensor, if necessary. Fifty-fifty if the sensor itself is good, at that place could be an electric open or brusk in the circuit.

Cheque the ignition switch:

If you lot seem to exist getting good fuel supply, and the previous tests didn't yield any clues, try checking the ignition switch. Ignition switch contacts wear out over time.

Sometimes, you lot tin detect problems with the contacts by belongings the key forward in the Start position when cranking the engine. The engine may catch in the Commencement position, merely every bit presently every bit you lot allow the primal render to the Run position, the engine dies.

1. First gain access to the ignition switch. Consult your vehicle repair manual.
2. Brand sure the switch is properly connected to the electrical connector.
3. Clasp the switch and electrical connector together with your hand as y'all endeavor to first the engine.
4. If the engine starts and remains idling while property the switch and connector together, you need to properly connect the switch.

Fifty-fifty if this quick exam doesn't yield results, yous will however desire to troubleshoot the ignition switch. Your vehicle repair manual may help you lot here.

Check for throttle body and throttle plate buildup:

Also, check your throttle torso and throttle plate for coking. Carbon buildup will prevent proper operation of the throttle valve. If the valve doesn't have free movement, it tin can cause a rough idle and stalling with low-cal buildup. Coking usually causes the engine to die immediately after the engine starts.

You can use carburetor cleaner to remove carbon buildup from the throttle bore and valve, if necessary.

Verify that the ignition system has a expert, potent spark.

Photo license: CC0 Creative Eatables

Two. If the Engine Stalls at Idle

Various components and maintenance issues may cause an engine to stall when idling. The source of the trouble may differ with the type of engine model or configuration.

Ignition System Problems

The organisation may have a weak spark or the spark may fail to achieve the spark plugs.

• Outset by checking the service schedule for the spark plugs and spark plug wires.
• Remove and check one spark plug at a time.
• Check the electrodes' gap using a wire approximate and compare to specs in your vehicle repair manual.
• A plug that burns the air-fuel mixture correctly has a chocolate-brown to grayish-tan color. Other colors may indicate bug with the fuel, ignition or even mechanical problems.
• A wet plug may signal besides much fuel reaching the cylinder, or a mechanical problem that is leaking oil into the combustion chamber like worn-out rings, cylinders or valve stem seals.
• Then, cheque the spark plug wires and ignition coils with the assistance of your vehicle repair manual.
• If your engine uses a distributor, bank check the cap every bit well for cracks, carbon traces, and oil contagion.

Bad canister vent valve:

The evaporative emissions (EVAP) control system routes fuel vapors into a canister and so to the intake manifold where they are burned forth with the air fuel mixture.

Simply a arrangement failure, especially a failure of the canister vent valve, can cause the engine to stall at idle or during dispatch. Consult your vehicle repair manual for valve testing procedures in your particular vehicle model.

Other system components to check, depending on your detail model:

• purge solenoid or valve
• canister
• relief valve
• hoses

Checking the PCV Valve:

The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) organisation purges blowby gases from the engine. Nearly PCV systems make use of a small valve to route blowby gases back into the intake manifold to exist re-burned. Over time, the valve may get stuck open, causing too much air to flow into the intake manifold during idle or acceleration, which can cause the engine to stall.

You tin easily remove the valve and check it by shaking the valve. If the valve doesn't rattle, probably the valve is stuck. But this common test doesn't work for all models. Consult your vehicle repair manual, if necessary.

A Bad Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)

The TPS monitors the bending opening of the throttle valve and sends this data to the electronic command module (car computer). The calculator uses this information, forth with signals from other sensors, to adjust air-fuel ratio, ignition timing and other outputs.

Most TPS units apply a variable resistor with several contact points that can wearable out and fail subsequently miles of service. When the contacts open, it may cause the computer to lean the mixture besides much and stall the engine. A bad TP sensor commonly triggers a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). So you can retrieve the code from the computer using a scanner tool.

Whether or not y'all find a trouble code for the TPS, information technology'southward a good idea to test the sensor using a digital multimeter:

1. Unplug the sensor electrical connector.
2. With the engine off, measure resistance across the sensor terminals with the throttle in closed position, at half throttle, and at total throttle.
3. Compare your resistance measurements to the specifications listed in your vehicle repair manual.

I or more bad fuel-injection components may crusade the egnine to stall.

Photograph courtesy of Vegavairbob on Wikimedia

Checking the IAC (for Engines With Multiport Injection Systems, Most Modernistic Engines):

In most cases, the problem here is associated with the idle air control (IAC) valve.
The IAC valve is controlled by the estimator and allows air to bypass the throttle valve under idle or cold temperature weather to forbid a crude idle or proceed the engine from stalling. You can examination the IAC valve using a digital multimeter:

1. First, unplug the IAC electrical connector.
2. Turn the ignition primal to the On (run) position simply don't start the engine.
3. Set your voltmeter to twenty Volts range (or above 15 Volts) on the DC (direct current) scale.
4. Connect your black meter pb to ground (engine metal surface or bombardment negative post, for case) and with the ruby meter pb probe the terminals on the harness side.
5. You should get around 10 to 12 volts, approximately, from one of the terminals. This is the incoming signal from the engine command module (automobile computer). If non, in that location are problems in that side of the circuit.

At present measure the status of the valve by measuring resistance across the IAC connector terminals.

1. Set your voltmeter to ohms for this measurement.
2. Y'all should get anywhere from 6 to 13 ohms of resistance.

To check for a possible internal short:

1. Check for resistance from each IAC connector terminal and the IAC valve body with your voltmeter.
2. Y'all should become around 10,000 ohms of resistance.

Checking the internal physical condition of the IAC valve:

A blocked IAC may crusade the engine to die as before long as it starts if the valve sticks close. IAC valves may fill up with carbon deposits overtime, preventing the pintle from moving, or blocking valve passages.

On most vehicle models, the IAC valve is readily attainable and can be removed easily by unscrewing a couple of mounting bolts.

1. First, turn the ignition central off and remove the central.
2. Unplug the IAC valve electrical connector.
3. Unscrew the valve mounting bolts and remove the valve from the vehicle.
4. Cheque the valve's pintle and housing for carbon buildup. If necessary, make clean the valve with carburetor cleaner and a soft rag to remove deposits.
5. Also, check the valve O-ring. It should be soft and in good condition. Otherwise, supersede it.

Consult your vehicle repair manual for the recommended testing procedures for your particular vehicle model, if necessary.

Your particular fuel injection organisation may have other necessary adjustments. For example, y'all may demand to adjust

• the idle speed
• the throttle cable
• the throttle plate end
• the idle air-fuel mixture

Consult your vehicle repair transmission, if necessary.

Troubleshooting the ECT (Engine Coolant Temperature) Sensor

The ECT measures engine operating temperature and sends this data as electrical information to the computer. The car reckoner uses this information, and information from other sensors, to adjust ignition timing for improve engine efficiency.

Thus, a bad ECT sensor can have a directly impact on engine performance. If the sensor causes a lean air-fuel mixture the engine may idle rough or stall.

About ECT sensors employ a thermistor to vary the voltage signal sent to the computer according to engine coolant temperature. The higher the coolant temperature, the lower the sensor resistance and higher the betoken voltage.

To test the ECT sensor:

1. Locate the sensor. It's usually close to the thermostat housing.
2. With the engine turned off and cool, unplug the ECT sensor electric connector.
3. Prepare your digital multimeter (DMM) to the ohms scale and measure out resistance beyond the sensor terminal. Make a notation of the resistance value.
4. Plug in the sensor electrical connector and outset the engine. Let the engine idle for about 15 or 20 minutes then that it reaches operating temperature.
5. Close off the engine.
6. Unplug the ECT electrical connector and measure resistance across the sensor terminals as y'all did in footstep 3.
7. This time, sensor resistance should be considerably lower. For case, depending on your detail sensor configuration and engine model, the sensor may accept 40K ohms when the engine is cold simply 2K ohms when hot.
8. Compare your results to the specifications listed in your vehicle repair manual.

A declining ECT sensor tin can trigger the check engine light. If your sensor checks Okay during your tests, but the calculator says in that location'south a problem with it, check the sensors excursion between the ECT and the computer for bad connections or damaged wire.

As well, check that the reckoner is sending the correct reference voltage to the sensor.

• Unplug the ECT sensor electric connector.
• Plough the ignition key to the On position, but don't starting time the engine.
• Measure the voltage at the harness connector (the one leading to the computer) with your voltmeter.
• Usually, yous should read about 5 volts at the connector. If not, at that place's a trouble in the circuit.

Checking for a Stuck EGR Valve

The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems reintroduces frazzle gases into the combustion chambers to reduce engine temperature and poisonous emissions.

It is common for the EGR valve passages to get blocked from carbon buildup. Carbon deposits may forbid the valve from closing, causing the engine to stall at idle. Besides, an EGR valve may leak through the base, causing the engine to stall at idle, at deceleration, or during a quick finish.

If yous've never checked under the valve, or it's been a few years since you last checked, it might be a good idea to have a look now. But make sure to accept on hand a gasket replacement. Yous may need to install a new one. If you lot tin can't find one for your particular vehicle model, yous still tin buy gasket newspaper at your local auto parts store and make the gasket yourself.

• Most EGR valves are accessible and not difficult to remove. Check the EGR valve configuration for your particular model, though, to make certain you accept all the tools necessary for the job. Commonly, all yous demand is a couple of wrenches, a ratchet, the appropriate socket sizes and, sometimes, a pipe wrench to disconnect the valve from the frazzle piping. Consult your vehicle repair manual, if necessary.
• Remove carbon deposits from nether the valve and intake ports using carburetor cleaner. Make certain not to let carburetor cleaner to accomplish the valve diaphragm or any electrical circuits, depending on your detail model, or you may ruin the valve.
• Reinstall the valve using a new gasket, if necessary.

Checking the EGR Valve:

Depending on your item EGR valve configuration, you lot probably tin can stick your finger through the underside of the valve and try to motility the internal diaphragm. If the diaphragm doesn't move, information technology may be stuck.

Here are a couple of culling methods to check for diaphragm movement:

• Operate the accelerator linkage with your hand to increase engine speed. Yous may be able to see the diaphragm moving using a mirror placed under the EGR valve. If you tin see the diaphragm with the mirror, just you can't see it moving as yous operate the accelerator linkage, the diaphragm might exist stuck.
• You tin can also utilize a mitt-held vacuum pump. Y'all tin can do this test with the engine off and using a mirror to watch diaphragm move. Disconnect the vacuum hose form the valve and connect the vacuum pump instead. Apply about 15 in-Hg of vacuum to the EGR valve while watching for diaphragm movement with the mirror. If the diaphragm doesn't motion, information technology might exist stuck.

Another cause for the valve diaphragm to fail is wear or impairment that causes information technology to leak frazzle gases. A quick way to examination for a leaking diaphragm is using carburetor cleaner.

• Block the wheels using wooden blocks.
• Ready your manual to Park (automated) or Neutral (standard).
• Outset the engine and pop the hood open.
• Spray a quick burst of carburetor cleaner under the valve, towards the diaphragm.
• If the engine RPMs increase when you lot spray, the diaphragm is leaking and you need to supervene upon the valve.

Bad Catalytic Converter

A bad catalytic converter can also cause you bug at idle. Depending on the particular problem, it may testify other symptoms likewise:

• a smell of rotten eggs
• rattling sounds
• poor engine ability

Ane of the most common problems with a catalytic converter is a plugged unit. The internal substrate becomes partially restricted or disintegrates.

Usually, problems with the catalytic converter trigger the bank check engine light (CEL). The figurer may store a P0420 through P0423 code. If y'all find a catalytic-converter-related lawmaking, do troubleshoot the catalytic converter before replacing it, to confirm that the cat is in fact bad. Catalytic converters are expensive and you need to brand sure that some other components is not involved in the problem. If necessary, consult your vehicle repair transmission.

Checking the IAC on Vehicle Models With Throttle Body Injection (TBI) Systems:

Many vehicles equipped with TBI systems also have an IAC valve controlled by the computer.

• You can use the test described in the previous section, if your vehicle has an IAC valve.
• Besides, some of these systems may accept an idle speed adjustment (consult your repair manual),

Usually, you can adjust idle speed past hooking upward a tachometer (some digital multimeters have this feature) to the engine. Then, you tin turn the idle speed screw on the throttle body or carburetor until the RPMs are set according to specifications.

Carburetor worn out components tin cause the engine to die.

Photograph courtesy of Uberprutser on Wikimedia

Diagnostics on Vehicles With a Carburetor

A stalling issue unremarkably points to a maladjusted idle mixture screw. To reset the spiral:

1. Locate the idle mixture screw.
2. With the engine off, bottom the screw.
3. Back out the screw 2 1/ii turns.
4. Commencement and idle the engine.
5. Make the final adjustments until you become a shine idle.

On some carburetor models, you may as well need to adjust curb idle speed. Consult your repair manual.

On carburetors in need of maintenance or worn parts, there can exist several components that need attention. For example, you lot may demand to check:

• throttle dashpot adjustment
• bowl fuel level
• idle system for clogging
• carburetor flooding
• vacuum leak
• float needle valve operation
• restriction in the air cleaner

Consult your vehicle repair manual.

Sometimes, using the accelerator pedal can continue your engine from stalling.

Photograph courtesy of ScrewsHirsch on Wikipedia

3. If the Engine Stalls at Idle Unless Y'all Press the Accelerator

This may indicate problems with the fuel system. The following video shows an engine with this problem.

If your engine has a throttle body injection (TBI) organization:

1. Popular the hood open and remove the air cleaner assembly then that you have access to the throttle body.
2. Plough the ignition key to the On position merely don't showtime the engine.
3. Take a look at the injector(s) on top of the throttle body.
4. If the injector(s) is leaking fuel, and then you need to supercede it. The injector may accept a worn or inoperative return spring or valve; or dirt may take the valve stuck in the open position.

Likewise, check fuel organization pressure using a fuel pressure gauge. Consult your vehicle repair manual.

If your engine has multiport fuel injection organisation:

Checking fuel injectors for leakage on this type of system tin can exist tricky, depending on your particular vehicle and engine model. Consult your vehicle repair manual about detaching the fuel injectors from their ports for inspection, if necessary.

Another potential problem could be the fuel pressure regulator.

1. Locate the pressure regulator on the fuel rail.
2. Detach the vacuum hose from the pressure regulator
3. Closely inspect the regulator port and inside the vacuum hose for signs of fuel
4. If you notice gasoline in either component, replace the fuel pressure regulator.

Fuel delivery organisation leaking:

Although rare, the cause of a stall may come from a leak in the fuel delivery organisation, specially the fuel pump. The engine may receive fuel just not enough to keep the engine running.

The leak may be located in the fuel pump assembly, or along the way up to the fuel rail.

Check for strong fuel odors or wet spots around the fuel rail, fuel hoses and tubing, around connectors. Also, you may demand to check the fuel pump assembly.

Meet your repair transmission for more fuel organisation tests, if necessary.

A bad electrical excursion in a coil or ignitino moduel may cause the engine to stall when warm.

Photo courtesy of Cschirp on Wikimedia

IV. If the Engine Starts But Stops When Warm

An engine can also stall when reaching operating temperature or a few minutes after a cold start.

Sometimes, this tin be a sign of problems with an:

• ignition coil
• ignition module (depending on your vehicle model)
• fuel pump
• crankshaft position (CKP) sensor
• camshaft position (CMP) sensor

It normally happens when an electric "open up" exists in the internal circuit of i of these components. After a few minutes of performance, estrus may crusade a coil or wire to aggrandize and loose electrical contact. Y'all may not be able to start the engine again until the heat in the troubled component has dissipated. Later, when heat causes the open to manifest itself over again, the engine may stall again.

Trying to notice the faulty component can be hard. But hither are a few simple procedures to become you going.

When the engine dies, check to run into if yous have spark:

1. Disconnect i of the spark plug wires from its spark plug.
2. Place the tip of the wire about two inches abroad from the engine surface or a metal bracket using a pair of insulated pliers.
3. Accept an banana crank the engine and come across if there's spark.
4. Y'all should see a strong, blueish spark between the tip of the wire and ground.
5. If there's no spark or you need to have the wire well-nigh 1/4 inch shut to ground for a spark, probably the fault is with the ignition module, ignition coil, CKP or CMP.

When there'due south spark, check for the presence of fuel:

1. If you have a fuel pressure guess or can borrow ane from your local auto parts shop, connect the gauge and idle the engine.
2. Monitor the gauge and run across if the fuel arrangement looses pressure when it stalls. If it does, you may accept problems with the fuel pump or a organization component.

You lot can also check for weak fuel pressure using this simple method:

1. When the engine stalls, remove the air cleaner assembly and spray some carburetor cleaner or starting fluid at the throttle and attempt to starting time the engine or have an assistant crank the engine while you spray a burst of carburetor cleaner into the throttle body.
2. If the engine catches or starts for 1 or two seconds when you spray the fluid, then you may have a problem with the fuel pump or another organisation component.

Check the fuel organization with the aid of your vehicle repair manual.

A bad circuit in a CMP can preclude the engine from idling.

Photo courtesy of Teresa Trimm on Flickr

V. If the Engine Stalls Intermittently

If your engine stalls intermittently, under a variety of weather, suspect these components:

A Bad Camshaft Position Sensor

A bad camshaft position (CMP) sensor can produce different types of symptoms and crusade the engine to stall immediately after starting or intermittently.

A bad camshaft sensor is likely to trigger the cheque engine light (CEL). Even if you don't see the CEL illuminate, scan the computer memory for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Mutual bad camshaft DTCs range from P0340 to P0344.

Consult your vehicle repair transmission to locate and test the camshaft sensor, if necessary.

Misfires

Engine misfires are another cause for an engine to stall. Misfires brand popping sounds and can cause engine to jerk or vibrate. Other symptoms include:

• increased emissions
• increased fuel consumption
• difficulty starting
• stalling

If you've noticed engine misfires, this might be the cause for the engine to stall. Check this other article to help you diagnose the source of the misfire.

Clogged air filter

You can remove the air filter and check information technology. Air filters trap clay and grit from the stream of air flowing into the intake manifold. To check the filter:

1. Remove it from its housing.
2. Identify the filter against the sun or a good source of calorie-free.
3. If the low-cal can barely go through the filter element, or not at all, the filter is clogged and preventing proper air flow into the engine, causing it to stall.

Vacuum Leaks

An engine stalling issue tin also come from a vacuum leak problem.

A vacuum leak can upset sensors or actuators that depend on vacuum for operation: for example, the manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve or mass air flow (MAF) sensor. The leak can happen considering of loose or damaged hoses or gaskets.

Testing one of these sensors requires checking the vacuum hose, electrical connection and wires, and testing the sensor itself. Consult your vehicle repair manual. On a MAF sensor, check for a dirty sensing element. You tin can clean the sensing element using MAF sensor cleaner or electric contact cleaner. Follow the production instructions when using this type of cleaner.

Vacuum leaks unremarkably make a hissing sound simply you may need a mechanics stethoscope or a length of hose to listen and locate potential vacuum leaks.

• Check that all vacuum hoses are properly connected.
• Check the condition of each hose.
• Use the stethoscope or length of hose to mind for leaks forth the vacuum hose and connections.
• Trace each hose with your manus to feel for potential damage: soften, harden or irregular spots.
• Cheque for vacuum leaks effectually the intake manifold gasket and throttle body besides.

It'southward Worth Trying to Diagnose An Engine That Shuts Off

If your engine starts only won't stay running, you want to make an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible. Making a diagnosis can exist hard, especially when yous don't have much experience in car repair and the source of the trouble can be in 1 of several systems. Utilize the strategies outlined in this guide. They'll aid you repair your auto faster past having yous concentrate on those systems more likely to give you lot problem.

This content is accurate and true to the all-time of the author's noesis and is non meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

Questions & Answers

Question: Where is the trouble when, after driving, I stop and information technology doesn't start until I give some time. How would you diagnose my car's problem if my machine volition start again after some time?

Answer: If the engine cranks just won't commencement, check for spark and fuel force per unit area. If it doesn't crank at all, cheque the battery status.

Check for DTCs codes, even if you oasis't seen the check engine lite come on. There might exist a pending code. Usually, when the engine warms upwards and so stops, it is an indication of a problem with an ignition roll, ignition module or even the fuel pump. Allowing time to cool, the component volition role again. Try some of the tests described in department 4 of the post.

Question: What does it mean when the car gets started when it is cold but non when it is hot?

Answer: Check the connections, wires and cables in the staring circuit. They should be clean and tight.

Question: Why does my car shut off when I let become of the key?

Answer: In that location could be a problem with the ignition switch. Gain access to the ignition switch and run into if the harness connector is getting loose. Button the connector and switch together and effort to start the engine and see if it stays running. If so, yous may want to use a big plastic tie to secure the connexion. Or you may need to replace the switch.

Question: My truck starts and within half-dozen seconds information technology dies. I cannot provide more gas to go on it running. If I unplug the Air Flow sensor information technology will commencement and idle but again if I requite it gas it dies. I also started with changing out the fuel filter. No difference. Any thoughts?

Answer: If you are able to start the engine correct after information technology stalls with the MAF sensor disconnected, probably this sensor is dirty or faulty or another sensor is not sending the right point the computer expects, probably the throttle position sensor. Download problem codes even if you don't meet the check engine light on. There could be a pending code that tin can assist you.

Question: I take a 1993 Caprice Classic. And about 4 months ago, I mistakenly put the incorrect grade of gas in. Since then, I've had issues as far as when upon starting it idles very low and then likewise loftier until it does normally after well-nigh 30 or then seconds. Once I bulldoze information technology, I can get so far, and once I come to a lite or stop sign it somewhen cuts off but starts back upwardly immediately. I've heard that information technology could be a number of things including bad fuel injectors. What'due south your practiced opinion on this?

Reply: It seems similar an electrical trouble. Try downloading trouble codes, even if the engine light doesn't come up on. There could be a trouble with a sensor.

Question: My auto starts and the check engine low-cal disappears. As the engine temperature rises, the check engine light appears and my auto dies. What's the respond?

Answer: Cheque the computer for problem codes. If a sensor is faulty, nearly probable it'southward triggered a code. With temperature-related issues, an ignition gyre, fuel pump motor or sensors like camshaft and crankshaft are mutual.

Question: ninety Chevy. I replaced the fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel pump relay and throttle control position sensor. Truck dies at random. If watching the throttle body when running, fuel just stops. I cycle the key and it works once again. If I don't bike the key, no fuel comes out. Any ideas?

Answer: If the engine dies equally if turning off the ignition cardinal, most probable the problem is a loose wire or bad connectedness either on the fuel pump circuit or throttle position sensor circuit. Double-cheque those circuits, including wiring harness and connectors. Cycling the key may bespeak to corroded or loose wire(s) that have besides much resistance and are getting hot. Visually check for corrosion and tug at the wires on the connectors to make sure they are not loose or dirty.

Question: May car engine stalls while idle unless you lot printing the accelerator. This indicates problems with the fuel system. How practice you fix the fuel arrangement?

Answer: If yous know the trouble is in the fuel system, beginning make sure you have replaced the fuel filter. So start by testing for fuel force per unit area at idle. This other mail tin help:

https://axleaddict.com/motorcar-repair/How-to-Test-a-F...

This could lead to a bad force per unit area regulator or fuel pump or bad injector(southward).

Question: When I attempt to first my Mazda, it takes several times of it trying to plough over then it starts. Only sometimes it shakes and makes loud noises and cuts off unless you press the gas a petty scrap. Then it'south good. The fuel force per unit area was checked and it is good. Why would my Mazda have trouble starting?

Respond: Seems like there is a problem with a sensor or the starting circuit. Try downloading whatsoever possible trouble codes, even if the check engine lite is non on. This other post may assist too:

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/How-to-Use-Volt...

Question: I have a 2005 Park Avenue that keeps stalling randomly. At offset, it would simply stall while warming up but ran fine after it was restarted. Now, it starts and will stall while driving. Sometimes I can bulldoze across town earlier it stalls, and sometimes I can merely make information technology a few blocks. Subsequently it stalls, I have to wait about an hour earlier I can keep information technology running. Should I start with the crank position sensor?

Reply: Check your camshaft position sensor. At that place are other items yous need to check as well like misfires, vacuum leaks, and a blocked air filter.

This other post on vacuum leaks diagnosis may help.

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/How-to-Discover-and...

Make sure to scan your reckoner retentiveness for trouble codes, even if the check engine light is not on. There could be pending codes that may guide you lot here.

If the engine stalls after information technology reaches operating temperature (about 15 to 20 minutes), there could exist a problem with the fuel pump or an ignition module.

Question: My automobile won't turn over. I used starting fluid and information technology started up, then immediately cut off. What tin can exist the reason for that?

Reply: If the engine doesn't plough over, there could be something wrong with the starter motor or the engine is seized. Simply, if the engine fires up with starting fluid, then check for fuel pressure. Probably not enough fuel is getting to the cylinders.

Question: My car runs fine for a few minutes, then starts sputtering and loses a lot of horsepower. It doesn't stall but the engine sounds rough like an erstwhile 80s car. A nighttime of residual lets the auto become drivable over again for a few minutes but then the problems show upwards again. I've changed the spark plugs, plug wires, distributor cap and rotor, air filter, cleaned the maf sensor and inverse the throttle position sensor. What else could exist the problem?

Answer: The problem seems to be temperature related. This unremarkably happens with a faulty ignition whorl, ignition module or fuel pump motor's ringlet. The coil device or temperature sensitive electronics volition begin to fail from an electrical open up. Have the ignition coil, ignition module and/or fuel pump checked.

Question: Why does my car beginning and idle for iii-5 minutes earlier dying? The spark plugs and fuel filter were replaced. The carburetor was taken off, checked and cleaned. The distributor was taken off and cleaned as well. It still does not want to idle entirely after starting, and then it cannot drive at all. Delight assistance as the mechanic can't seem to figure out whats wrong with my automobile.

Respond: In that location could be several causes for this, so try the following:

Have the ignition system checked to make sure information technology has a proficient spark.

Check the fuel system- fuel pressure

Bank check the canister vent valve, PCV valve, TPS sensor, and IAC valve.

Question: My VW T4 runs completely fine, but when it'due south been in hot weather, or indeed damp weather, it starts and instantly dies. This is intermittent. Sometimes afterwards it dies, if you try again information technology can starting time straight away, or yous tin be waiting for one-half an hour before you tin first it. One time started information technology runs fine. Practise you take whatever ideas?

Answer: Usually, when a automobile struggles to run in damp weather, the problem is with the ignition organization. A coil or cable in the system is probably leaking the spark to ground.

Question: My machine was diagnosed as having a bad fuel pump. After a new fuel pump was put in, it got four miles downwardly the road, idled out, and died once more. The car will not creepo until most xv minutes after information technology happens. What practice you lot think could exist the cause of this problem?

Answer: If you mean the engine will not turn over, the problem seems to exist in the starting system circuit. This other post may aid:

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/bad_starter_sym...

If the engine cranks just won't start after the car has been driven about four miles (engine turns over only won't start), then possibly the ignition coil or ignition module is bad. In this instance, the coil reaches operating temperature, coil breaks open and the car stops. Once the coil cools, the broken wire makes contact and you are able to start the engine, and the cycle repeats.

This other postal service may help you lot examination the ignition coil:

https://axleaddict.com/motorcar-repair/How-to-Test-an-...

If your car has a coil on plug configuration, check the repair manual for your particular model to test the coils. Yous tin can also cheque for spark right afterward the engine refuses to outset. If there'southward no spark, you know the trouble is in the ignition arrangement (or crankshaft-camshaft position sensor) and you are on the right rail.

Question: I take a 2013 Chevy Sonic. For the final 5 months, my car has stalled during driving and when in idle or when I stop at red low-cal and terminate signs. Also, it fails to turn over afterward putting gas. It volition turn over fine, simply information technology won't stay on. I've had my fuel injector cleaned and inspected. I've had my O2 sensor replaced as well. Exercise you have whatsoever ideas what this could exist?

Answer: Yous may be dealing with a vacuum leak or a faulty sensor similar a MAP or MAF sensor. You lot may also have a problem in the fuel arrangement or with the fuel pump. Have the pump checked before replacing it.

Question: What tin brand a car just switch off and the battery lite to go on in the instrument panel? I have tested the battery and information technology is good.

Reply: The most common reason for this is a bad alternator. Have the charging arrangement tested.

Question: Why does my motorcar but showtime in the morning?

Reply: Check for any DTCs in the computer memory beginning. You may need to take a await at fuel pressure or ignition spark afterward the car has warmed up. Maybe there's a problem with the fuel pump or an ignition coil.

Question: What would be the problem if the engine dies at intersections when reverting to first gear? I replaced the carburetor.

Answer: The carburetor may need an idle adjustment. Check the transmission, if information technology came with it. Or look for it online.

Question: Two days ago my truck shut off immediately afterward starting information technology up. The truck will advance by itself then shut off. It fails to restart after a few tries and then it will start and run. Ii months ago, information technology shut off while driving, so I replaced the battery and alternator and no problems for 2 months. What could cause my truck to shut off after starting upwardly?

Answer: It seems like a faulty sensor. Intermittent faults tin be hard to diagnose, though. But y'all may want to cheque the battery cables, engine grounds, ignition switch connector, and wiring, and faulty wiring in a disquisitional sensor the computer relies on to operate the fuel injectors, crankshaft, throttle position sensor or camshaft sensor, for example. If the engine shuts off as if turning the ignition switch off, most likely the problem is in a circuit. A voltage drop test might help:

https://axleaddict.com/automobile-repair/Automotive-Volt...

Question: When I finish the automobile and then come back to it after only a brief catamenia of fourth dimension, it will just stay on if I recall the engine. Merely one time I can get it going for a footling bit, it stays on and runs bully and idles better than it has in years, but no ane touched anything on the engine. Is it the fuel delivery or something more sinister?

Answer: Doesn't seem like a fuel organization upshot. Probably an issue with the idle air control (valve or solenoid) or a sensor, possibly the throttle position sensor, that is not sending the correct point to the reckoner. Try downloading trouble codes, fifty-fifty if the check engine is not on. There could exist a pending code. You lot may as well be dealing with a bad wire or connector.

Question: Why does my engine crank but won't stay running?

Answer: At that place could be a fault in the injection or ignition system, a vacuum leak or another mistake. Check for trouble codes, even if you don't run into the bank check engine lite on. A sensor might be faulty besides.

Question: I had the fuel injectors cleaned, fuel pump checked, relay checked, new MAF sensor, new Creepo and camshaft sensors, new ignition switch, and cleaned the throttle torso with a carb cleaner. The alternator is good. New starter. It hard starts with starter fluid; I pushed the gas pedal a good 10 times with zero reaction from the rpms. So the car died seconds later on. I cannot figure it out. What could it exist?

Reply: Information technology seems like a bad sensor. Try downloading trouble codes and see if you get a awaiting code, fifty-fifty if the check engine light is not on. There could be a problem with the throttle position sensor (TPS). If the computer doesn't get a signal from this sensor, it may not burn upwards the engine.

Question: With the machine on jacks on an incline, the engine was running fine. I tried to drive it to a shop the next day. Information technology started fine, but inside a minute it only shut off. No alert or sputter, but dead. I pushed information technology back to the inclined driveway and then information technology started fine. Could information technology be that what little oil was there pooled upwardly towards the dorsum of the engine and wasn't getting to the pump?

Answer: Some models will shut off the engine if there's not enough oil pressure level. This is a condom measure out to prevent severe engine harm. If in that location's non enough oil, add some and try over again. If you lot think there's a trouble with oil force per unit area, this other post may aid:

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/What-Causes-Low...

Question: I have a 2012 Ford Focus. Afterwards getting gas and about x miles (sixteen.09 km) downwardly the road, the automobile started to lose power and then stalled. Got information technology started, drove a lilliputian and it did the same thing. Finally, I made information technology dwelling house. It stalled once again and now won't beginning at all. I never had a problem until I put gas in it. My Ford mechanic said I demand a new calculator system. Could my Ford Focus' loss of power exist something other than the computer system?

Answer: Outset, make certain you got fuel pressure (bad fuel pump or fuel pressure regulator, clogged fuel filter). Download trouble codes, even if the engine light is non on. At that place could exist a pending code on the computer's retentiveness. A bad sensor can forbid the engine from starting, like a faulty crankshaft, camshaft or throttle position sensor.

Question: My engine starts, so later a few seconds engine is off past itself. And then the dashboard displays an automobile protection alarm. What could be the cause of this remark?

Reply: The message comes from the motorcar's computer. It'south trying to protect the engine because of a serious error it has detected. Download the problem codes from the computer memory. They should give you an indication of the problem.

Question: My engine is a Toyota 5A Fe and has no problem starting at home (outdoor Street parking) even on a very cold morning. Nevertheless, information technology cranks and instantly stalls when I try to start it at work and only when I'm at work (Covered Parking). Any reason why that might exist?

Reply: It'southward possible the EGR or PCV valve is sticking open.

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/Bad-EGR-Valve-S...

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/How-to-do-a-PCV...

Download problem codes, fifty-fifty if you don't see the check engine light on. There could be a problem with a sensor as well. Hope this helps.

Question: When, after driving, I stop, it doesn't start and the engine lite comes on until I give some time. How would you diagnose my automobile's problem if my car will starting time again after some time?

Answer: Offset past downloading trouble codes. If the check engine light is coming on, there could exist a faulty sensor triggering the light. Brand sure to exam the system or sensor indicated past the code before replacing any components. Hope this helps.

Question: My gear shift lights are not indicating on the gear after changing the gearbox and mechatronics. And we are failing to start the car Golf v 1.ix TDI. What could be the problem?

Answer: If the engine is non cranking, there could exist a problem in the starting excursion, perhaps at the ignition switch. That could as well explain why you are non getting the indicator lights. This other post may aid:

https://axleaddict.com/car-repair/How-to-Apply-Volt...

information technology'll be a good idea to have the diagram for your particular model. If you don't accept the repair manual, y'all can become ane at your local auto parts store or online.

Question: My engine starts and runs at high idle, BUT will not idle once warmed up. The simply way I can keep it running is to upward the rpm to effectually 1200 or more. I have checked plugs, wires, vacuum lines, replaced whorl. I removed the gas line from carburetor and I can fill a bottle slowly every bit I plough the engine over - mechanical pump. Should I replace the carburetor? Information technology is a 4 barrel Rochester Quadrajet.

Answer: If the engine starts at high idle then dies while it gets warmed, it'south possible at that place is a vacuum leak. If y'all discover a driblet in RPM before it dies, the asphyxiate may demand adjustment (too tight), the carburetor may be flooding, or the float level is very loftier.

Question: My BMW ane series cuts off while driving, the engine will beginning and cut off later on few minutes, what could be the problem?

Answer: This other postal service may help:

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/Car-Dies-While-...

Question: Hyundai ix35 2013 automobile. The automobile starts and dies. I took out one of the airflow sensors and started the motorcar. It remains on only equally soon equally I put the sensor back, the car dies. Delight propose?

Reply: About likely the air menstruum sensor is faulty. Try testing the sensor and, if necessary, the excursion, to brand sure it'due south bad. This other post may help:

https://axleaddict.com/car-repair/How-to-Test-a-Chiliad...

Question: My motorcar does not stay running until it comes upward to operating temperature, what could be the problem?

Answer: In that location could exist a problem with the MAF sensor not sending the correct signal to the calculator.

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/How-to-Exam-a-G...

Usually, cleaning the sensor element solves the problem, using a MAF sensor cleaner. Other times the sensor itself has failed and needs replacement.

Other sources of trouble are the throttle position sensor,

https://axleaddict.com/car-repair/How-Do-You lot-Know...

bad fuel pressure

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/How-to-Test-a-F...

engine coolant temperature sensor

https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/Coolant-Tempera...

stuck open up thermostat

https://axleaddict.com/car-repair/car-thermostat-...

Question: Would a speed sensor cause stalling?

Answer: Unremarkably, yous'll notice bug with the transmission, brakes, speedometer, and check engine lite. Try downloading problem codes from the computer, even if you don't see the cheque engine light on. If there are no codes, this other post may help:

https://axleaddict.com/automobile-repair/No-Problem-Code...

© 2022 Dan Ferrell

byrdthavence.blogspot.com

Source: https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/Why-My-Engine-Starts-But-Stops

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