What Causes an Automatic Transmission Car to Suddenly Stall and Fail to Start?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission cars may suddenly stall and fail to start due to the following reasons: Fuel supply issues: When the fuel tank has fuel, check whether there is fuel in the carburetor. If there is no fuel, it indicates that the fuel line from the fuel tank to the carburetor is clogged and should be cleaned and unclogged. If there is fuel in the carburetor but the car still won't start, check whether the carburetor fuel filter is clogged or if the main jet is dirty. Engine overheating: Excessive temperature and poor lubrication can cause the piston and cylinder to seize, leading to stalling. After diagnosis, check whether there is lubricating oil in the crankcase. If there is little or no lubricating oil, check whether the oil pan or drain plug is leaking, or simply top up with the specified lubricating oil.
I remember my old automatic car also suddenly stalled and couldn't start, which was really unpleasant. The most common cause is a dead battery, possibly from leaving lights on or not driving for a long time, draining the power. It could also be a fuel system issue, like a faulty fuel pump or an empty tank, preventing the car from getting fuel. Ignition system failures are another frequent reason, such as worn-out spark plugs or carbon buildup blocking them, making it impossible to ignite the air-fuel mixture. Additionally, a damaged starter motor or timing belt can directly stop the engine. If the car stalls and won't start, don't panic—first, check the dashboard for any warning lights, then inspect if the battery terminals are loose. If all else fails, call a tow truck for professional repair. Regular maintenance and pre-drive checks can help avoid such embarrassing situations.