What Causes an Engine to Suddenly Stall?
2 Answers
The reasons for an engine suddenly stalling are: 1. The crankshaft position sensor's own resistance value is abnormal, causing the crankshaft speed signal to disappear after the engine warms up, leading to engine stalling; 2. The fuel pump's resistance changes after prolonged operation, failing to provide normal fuel pressure, resulting in engine stalling; 3. Ignition system failure, where the ignition module overheats and cannot function properly, causing the engine to stall; 4. Abnormal throttle signal voltage leading to engine stalling while driving; 5. Loose wiring causing intermittent engine stalling. The methods to address sudden engine stalling are: 1. Check if the fuel tank has sufficient fuel; 2. Inspect whether the filter is clogged; 3. Check if the battery is supplying power; 4. Examine whether the fuel pump is delivering fuel.
You asked about the possible reasons for sudden engine stalling, which reminds me of encountering the same issue while driving last month. That time, the engine suddenly stalled on the highway, giving me quite a scare. Simply put, common causes of stalling can be categorized into several aspects. For instance, fuel system failure—if the fuel pump is broken or the fuel injector is clogged, the engine will stop immediately without fuel. Electrical system issues are also common, such as worn-out spark plugs or damaged ignition coils, which can cause the engine to stall if ignition fails. Another possibility is insufficient air supply; a clogged air filter or malfunctioning sensor can suffocate the engine. More severe cases might involve engine overheating or ECU control module errors. The most dangerous aspect of stalling is the steering wheel becoming stiff. It’s advised to immediately turn on hazard lights and pull over—never force the car to keep moving to avoid accidents. In my case, a post-incident check at the repair shop revealed a faulty sensor, and after replacement, the car ran much smoother. Regular maintenance checks on the fuel filter and spark plugs can help prevent such issues.
