Modern cars have numerous sensors and functions that help them move swiftly. Carrying adequate knowledge about them would help you fix issues like car shutting off while driving as it arises. This article sheds light on leading causes that make the car shut off while driving and ways to fix the issue:
6 Primary Reasons that Makes the Car Shut Off While Driving
Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
The primary reason that leads to a car shutting off while driving is the crankshaft position sensor. It is generally installed in the car engine to help it run without any hassle. It is fitted in modern vehicles, and a faulty crankshaft position sensor might become a hindrance in your driving. Check whether the Camshaft positions sensor is faulty or not and is accompanied by a trouble code that starts flashing on the car. A crankshaft position sensor replacement would resolve these issues and would prevent your vehicle from halting unnecessarily.
Faulty Fuel Pump or System
Optimum amounts of fuel are supplied to the car via a fuel pump. A car devoid of fuel leads to the motor shut off and leaves you stranded in the middle of the road. The worst part is that it has no substitute repair, and quick replacement can help you get back on track. Sometimes clogged fuel filter is the reason why the fuel pump is unable to deliver fuel to the system.
The mechanic’s initial course of action would be kicking the fuel tank of the engine. Once the car starts kicking, it indicates to the driver that the root cause of the issue was the fuel tank.
Empty Fuel Tank
Cars must be topped up with appropriate amounts of fuel at all times. A vehicle with appropriate fuel amounts would run smoothly, while a defective fuel gauge or fuel level sender would prevent you from checking the fuel levels and would become a concern in the future. One way to resolve it is by filling the car with 1 Gallon(4 Litres) of fuel to determine whether it starts or not.
Alternator Issues
Alternator ensures that the entire system receives proper electricity supply. Sometimes a bad alternator is the root cause that inhibits the vehicle’s movement. A defective alternator prevents car components from receiving power, dash engine lights turn off, and the engine starts losing power all of a sudden. In case of alternator issues, you’ll notice a red battery light flashing on your dashboard. If your car has enough power and the starter motor works during the shut-off state, then the alternator isn’t the issue. Taking the car to a qualified technician and determining the root cause of the problem is the best approach.
Faulty Ignition Switch
Sometimes the issues arise due to a faulty ignition switch that lies behind the ignition lock and turns on as the vehicle starts. The switch comprises tiny metals that experience corrosion and rust. Sometimes the plates lose connection leading to a complete ignition switch off. Fortunately, this issue can be resolved by checking the ignition lights on the dashboard. In case the dashboard instrument is dead, it is possibly due to a faulty ignition switch.
Malfunctioning Sensors
Modern vehicles come with sensors that supply adequate amounts of air to fuel mixture to the system. In case anything happens to a single sensor, it impedes the working of the entire car. Certain sensors don’t shut off the engine completely, and interference in the air to fuel mixture results in the engine dying off.
Ways to Diagnose a Car Shutting off While Driving
Diagnosing a car that shuts off is an arduous task and occurs rarely. However, finding the root cause of the issue won’t take much of your time.
- Inspect the car for trouble codes using the OBD2 Scanner. Carry on diagnostics until you come across any.
2. Fill the car with 1 Gallon or 4 Litres of fuel and ensure that the fuel guage is working smoothly.
3. Ensure that the car battery is fully charged and connect it with a car battery charger if it’s low
4. If you’re able to start the car using a battery, determine the voltage with the help of a multimeter. If it is between 13.5 to 14.5 Volts, then it’s completely fine. If the voltage is below 1w3V, there is an issue with the alternator system.
5. Ensure that the engine has appropriate fuel pressure. In case it’s not, have a look at the fuel pump and fuel filter and perform the necessary replacement on them.
6. Calibrate live data using diagnostic tools, and in case the engine sensors give strange values. Don’t forget to look at the RPM of the Crankshaft sensor while cranking the engine.
7. After cranking the engine on the starter motor, have a look at the RPM metre on the dashboard. If it’s still, it is possibly due to the crankshaft position sensor.
Where to Buy these Replacement Parts From?
Getting the replacement parts from a local store would dig a hole within your budget. However, you can save money by purchasing quality and affordable parts from the reputed online car parts and accessories store ‘The Auto Parts Shop‘ and save money. The best thing is that the parts will be delivered in a day.
What to Do If my Car Shuts Off While Driving & Won’t Start?
If your car doesn’t turn on while driving, it is possibly due to low fuel pressure or a faulty alternator. This issue takes place due to many reasons, and the car must be scanned using a diagnostic tool.