What Causes a Car to Suddenly Stall While Running?
2 Answers
Car suddenly stalling may be due to abnormal temperature conditions in the car's water temperature sensing device, leading to the engine shutting down. Here is some related information about car stalling: 1. Ignition System: If the ignition system fails, the spark plugs won't ignite, preventing the air-fuel mixture from being ignited, which causes the vehicle to stall. In this case, it's necessary to check whether the ignition wiring in the system is functioning properly, whether the ignition module is working correctly, and whether the spark plugs are damaged, such as broken electrodes or cracked ceramic parts. 2. Fuel Injection System: The fuel injection system, also commonly referred to as the fuel supply system, typically works by transferring fuel from the fuel tank through the fuel pump via fuel lines to the injectors, which then spray the fuel. If any component in this system—such as the fuel pump, fuel lines, or injectors—is damaged, it will fail to supply the engine with the necessary fuel, causing the vehicle to stall.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I've experienced sudden engine stalling several times while driving, which was truly frightening. That time on the highway, the car was running normally when it suddenly sputtered and stopped, with the engine going silent. It was later diagnosed as a failed fuel pump, cutting off the fuel supply, possibly due to pump aging or a clogged filter. Other causes could be ignition system failures, like burnt spark plugs or faulty coils causing unstable current; electrical issues such as a dead battery or alternator failure leading to insufficient power. In cold weather, fuel lines can freeze, while in summer, overheating can also cause the engine to stall. Safety-wise, after stalling, the steering wheel becomes heavy and braking is more difficult. It's crucial to immediately turn on hazard lights and pull over—never stop in the middle of the road, as it's extremely dangerous. Regular attention to fuel levels and dashboard warning lights, along with scheduled maintenance like oil changes and part inspections, can help prevent such situations.
