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Engine stalls
High — fix right away
The engine shuts off by itself while you drive or while you wait at a light, and you have to restart it. It may stall again right away.
Possible causes
- Dirty idle air control valve — Most likely · Codes: P0505P0506P0507
Check first: Notice if the engine stalls when you stop at a light and the idle is rough or very low. The idle valve controls air at idle. - Bad mass airflow sensor — Possible · Codes: P0100P0101
Check first: Notice if the engine hesitates or stalls when you press the gas. A bad airflow sensor gives the engine the wrong fuel amount. - Failing fuel pump — Possible · Codes: P0230P0231
Check first: Notice if the engine stalls under load or on hills. Turn the key to ON and listen for the fuel pump hum — a weak or missing hum points to the pump.
Questions, answered
What usually causes this?
The most likely causes are: Dirty idle air control valve; Bad mass airflow sensor; Failing fuel pump. If you are not sure what is wrong, have it checked by a qualified technician.
Is it safe to drive with this symptom?
No — stop driving and get it checked. This symptom can mean a serious problem.
Not repair advice. If you are not sure what is wrong, have it checked by a qualified technician. Cars differ by make, model and year.
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