How to Handle Sudden Engine Stall While Driving?
2 Answers
When encountering sudden engine stall while driving, the handling methods are as follows: For manual transmission vehicles, you can shift the gear lever to an appropriate gear according to the vehicle speed, then press the clutch and restart the engine; For automatic transmission vehicles, you can shift the gear lever to the N (Neutral) position, restart the engine, and then shift back to D (Drive) gear. Below is some relevant information about engines: 1. Function of the engine: After the thermal energy of gasoline burns and expands the gas in the sealed cylinder, it pushes the piston to perform work, converting it into mechanical energy. The car engine is the device that provides power for the vehicle, serving as the heart of the car, determining its power, fuel economy, stability, and environmental performance. 2. Types of engines: Depending on the power source, car engines can be categorized into diesel engines, gasoline engines, electric vehicle motors, and hybrid power systems, among others.
That time I was driving on the expressway when suddenly the engine just quit! I was instantly wide awake, gripping the steering wheel tightly and staring straight ahead—because after stalling, steering becomes super difficult, and letting go even slightly can easily cause the car to veer. My foot immediately slammed on the brake, which felt like stepping on a rock, requiring all my strength to slow down. I tried turning the key to restart the engine twice with no response, so I quickly hit the hazard lights to warn the cars behind. Using the remaining momentum, I coasted the car to the emergency lane, stopped safely, shifted to neutral, pulled the handbrake, and retrieved the warning triangle from the trunk to place it 100 meters behind the car. My palms were drenched in sweat. Later, the mechanic said the fuel pump had burned out. My advice to everyone: if you encounter a similar situation, don’t repeatedly try to restart the engine after stopping—call for help first. A post-incident inspection revealed severe dust buildup on the crankshaft position sensor, which regular maintenance could have easily prevented.
