What causes intermittent fuel cut-off while driving and then recovery?
4 Answers
This issue could be caused by a faulty throttle pedal position sensor or throttle position sensor. Malfunctions in the idle control valve or engine control unit (ECU) may also lead to this phenomenon. It is recommended to contact a 4S dealership for inspection and repair. Relevant information about engine fuel cut-off: 1. Fuel cut-off protection working principle: For small and medium-sized diesel engines, the fuel cut-off protection usually involves installing a small cylinder on the throttle linkage. The piston of this small cylinder is connected to the throttle linkage. When the diesel engine experiences a loss of lubricating oil pressure, the pressure detection device installed in the lubricating oil pipeline system will activate the compressed air switch. This allows compressed air to travel through the pipeline to the small cylinder, pushing the piston to move the throttle linkage to the extreme fuel cut-off position, completely stopping the fuel supply and shutting down the engine. 2. Fuel cut-off protection working method: Generally, this refers to the engine control module (ECM) temporarily stopping the operation of the fuel injectors when it detects that the engine is operating outside the normal range or identifies an abnormal condition. This prevents fuel from being injected into the cylinders, causing the engine speed to drop or heat generation to decrease sharply, thereby protecting the engine. When the ECM detects that the speed has fallen back to a safe range or the water temperature has returned to normal, fuel injection resumes, and the engine returns to normal operation.
I had a similar issue while driving recently. On the highway, the car suddenly felt powerless and seemed to lose fuel supply, which was quite scary, but it recovered on its own in less than half a minute. At first, I thought it was due to poor fuel quality, but later I realized it might be a worn-out fuel pump causing intermittent fuel delivery issues. It could also be a clogged fuel system, especially in older cars that haven’t had their filters replaced for a long time—sediment might block the outlet and then clear up after some vibration. Another possibility is poor electrical contact, like a loose pump connector that disconnects and reconnects due to bumps while driving. This issue shouldn’t be ignored, as stalling in a curve could be extremely dangerous. I recommend going to a repair shop immediately to check the fuel pressure and wiring harness. Regular maintenance of the fuel system can help prevent such troubles.
As someone who frequently drives long distances, I've encountered several instances of sudden fuel cut-off followed by recovery while driving. The main causes lie in the fuel supply system. For example, a faulty fuel pump relay can cause voltage instability, making the pump work intermittently. Or, excessive carbon buildup in the fuel injectors can cause them to stick, leading to engine jolts that clear up after a moment. Don't just guess blindly. A simple self-check involves looking at the fuel pressure gauge or listening for the pump's startup sound. If the issue persists, visit a professional shop to replace the parts, as interference with the engine's electronic control module could also trigger this problem. Delaying repairs might damage more components and waste money.
Experiencing a sudden fuel cut-off while driving that then resolves itself is likely due to a clogged fuel filter or poor fuel tank ventilation. When the filter screen is blocked with debris, high pressure can cause fuel flow interruptions, but movement may dislodge the blockage temporarily. Try replacing the fuel filter yourself first before rushing into expensive computer diagnostics. Save time and money by purchasing a matching filter model from the supermarket for a quick swap. It's recommended to replace the fuel filter every 20,000 kilometers to ensure smooth fuel delivery and avoid major repairs.
