Why does a car start and then stall?
3 Answers
Reasons why a car starts and then stalls: 1. Throttle failure: The throttle is blocked or severely carbon-deposited; 2. Issues with the ignition coil or spark plug: Excessive spark plug gap can cause the car to stall; 3. Fuel injector failure: Blocked fuel injectors lead to insufficient fuel supply and stalling. Problems in any part of the fuel system, ignition system, or intake system can cause this phenomenon. If the car stalls even when the air-fuel mixture enters the cylinder normally, it is highly likely that there is a fault in the ignition system. The role of the ignition system is to generate a sufficiently energetic spark between the electrodes of the spark plug in accordance with the working sequence of the cylinders.
It's really frustrating when the car suddenly stalls after starting. Most likely, it's an issue with the fuel system—either the fuel pump isn't performing well or the filter is clogged, causing a fuel supply interruption and the engine to shut down. It could also be due to aging spark plugs or a faulty coil in the ignition system, making it impossible to ignite and causing the engine to stop. Insufficient battery power or a broken alternator are also common culprits, especially in cold winter temperatures. Personally, when I encounter this issue, I first check the fuel gauge and dashboard warning lights. If everything seems normal, I proceed to inspect the fuses and air sensors for any damage. If not addressed promptly, the problem may recur the next time you drive. It's advisable to visit a professional auto repair shop for a computer diagnostic scan to prevent minor issues from escalating into major failures. Regular maintenance, such as changing the oil and cleaning the fuel system, can significantly reduce such unexpected incidents—safety first, after all.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered several instances of stalling, such as the engine dying immediately after ignition, usually due to dirty fuel injectors or faulty sensors. For example, an inaccurate air flow meter can easily cause stalling. A dead battery is also one of the causes, especially more noticeable in low temperatures. That one time I took my old car out, it stalled right after starting, and it turned out to be a faulty ignition coil—it worked fine after replacing it. A simple method is to turn the key to the start position and listen for the fuel pump sound; it should make a buzzing noise if it's working properly. If not, check the battery voltage; if it's too low, charge or replace it. Don't delay fixing this issue, as it can affect driving safety—just take it to a repair shop for a check-up. During maintenance, pay extra attention to the throttle body and fuel system to prevent problems before they occur.
