No, a running car cannot die specifically because the starter is bad. The starter motor's sole function is to crank the engine to get it started. Once the engine is running, the starter disengages and plays no further role in keeping the car alive. The engine is kept running by the continuous cycle of combustion, fueled by a combination of air, fuel, and spark. The electrical power needed for this process (for the ignition system, fuel injectors, and computer) is supplied by the alternator, not the battery or starter.
If your car stalls or dies while driving, the problem is almost certainly unrelated to the starter. You should investigate other components. A failing alternator is a common culprit; if it stops charging the battery, the car will eventually use up all the battery's reserve power and shut down. Other potential causes include a faulty fuel pump (starving the engine of gas), a broken timing belt (which disrupts the engine's internal mechanics), or problems with critical sensors.
Here is a comparison of symptoms that point to a bad starter versus a failing alternator:
| Symptom | Indicates a Bad Starter | Indicates a Failing Alternator |
|---|
| Car starts then immediately dies | No | Yes (if battery is too drained to run systems) |
| Engine cranks but won't start | Possibly (if solenoid fails) | No |
| No sound when turning key | Yes (no crank) | No |
| Dimming lights/electrical issues while driving | No | Yes |
| Whining or grinding noise during startup | Yes | No |
| Battery warning light on dashboard | No | Yes |
| Smell of burning rubber/wires from engine | Possibly | Possibly |
In short, a bad starter will prevent you from starting your car, but it won't cause a running engine to fail. Diagnose the actual issue correctly to avoid replacing the wrong part.
