How to Handle Sudden Engine Stalling While Driving?
3 Answers
Here are the steps to handle sudden engine stalling while driving:1. Control the vehicle: When the engine stalls suddenly during driving, immediately turn on the hazard warning lights to alert other vehicles. During this process, it is crucial to maintain control of the steering wheel and try to stabilize the car, as the steering assist will be lost once the engine stalls, making the steering wheel very heavy. The driver must keep the vehicle on course.2. Park appropriately: After the engine stalls, the hydraulic pump for the brakes will also stop working, which may make the brakes unresponsive after one press. Therefore, that one press of the brake is critical. If not handled properly, it poses significant safety risks. Use the gears to slow down the vehicle, and when an appropriate opportunity arises, press the brake. After stopping, check the surroundings before opening the door and place a warning sign as required.3. Check the engine: Inspect the engine to see if the belt is loose or broken. If the stalling is not caused by the belt, check for any unusual noises inside the engine. If the issue cannot be resolved after inspection, call for roadside assistance.4. Check the radiator: Inspect the radiator. If the water temperature is too high or there is no water during driving, it can lead to poor heat dissipation, which is a common cause of engine stalling. However, be cautious when checking the radiator—do not open it hastily when it is too hot, as this may cause burns.
It's really scary when the engine suddenly stalls while driving. I was also stunned the first time it happened to me. Now I know the most important thing is to stay calm, immediately steady the steering wheel and avoid sudden turns, while firmly pressing the brake to slow down, and turn on the hazard lights to warn the vehicles behind. If the speed is high, don't rush to shift into P gear; first, coast to a safe area by the roadside using inertia. After stopping, shift into N gear and try to restart the vehicle. If it really won't start, contact rescue services promptly. Remember to regularly check basic components like battery terminals and air filters, and for older cars, pay attention to the fuel pump pressure. Once, my friend's car stalled halfway because the filter was clogged. It's also quite necessary to always keep an emergency triangle in the trunk.
Once on the elevated highway, my car suddenly stalled and the dashboard went completely dark—my heart skipped a beat at that moment! I immediately gripped the steering wheel and coasted to the emergency lane. Only after turning on the hazard lights did I finally calm down. After two failed attempts to restart, I wisely called for roadside assistance. The tow truck driver said such sudden failures are often due to electrical issues, like a broken alternator belt or a blown fuse. Since then, I've developed a habit of keeping my foot on the brake at red lights, ready to control the car if it stalls. Now, during every maintenance check, I ask the mechanic to thoroughly inspect the starter and fuel system—after all, safety isn't something to leave to chance.
