When your car shuts off while driving is a risky condition. This headache can be due to a variety of causes. Find out the most common causes of automobile shut-offs, how to fix them and prevent them from happening again with regular car maintenance, and what to do to keep you and other drivers on the road secure whenever this happens while you’re stuck in traffic. We’ll discuss the problem of “car turns off while driving but turns back on” in this article. It is a totally different circumstance compared to when your car switches off after you stop. It occurs when the motor is highly sensitive at idling and can be brought on by various factors.
If Your Car Turns Off While Driving But Turns Back On – Potential Causes
If your car turns off while driving but then turns back on, it can be a frustrating and concerning experience. Here are 11 potential reasons why this might be happening:
Faulty Fuel Pump:
A failing fuel pump can cause the engine to stall and shut off but then start back up again once the pump has had a chance to cool down.
Bad Alternator:
The alternator is responsible for charging the battery and powering the electrical components in your car. If it fails, the battery can die, and the car can turn off while driving.
Dead Battery:
The car may stall and turn off if the battery is dead or weak. It may start back up if the battery has enough power to turn the engine over.
Dirty Or Faulty Fuel Injectors:
If the fuel injectors are clogged or not working properly, the engine may stall and turn off. It may start back up once the injectors are cleaned or replaced.
Faulty Ignition Coil:
The ignition coil is responsible for providing the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine. If it fails, the engine can stall and turn off.
Dirty Air Filter:
A dirty air filter can reduce the amount of air that reaches the engine, causing it to stall and turn off. It may start back up if the filter is replaced.
Overheating:
If the engine overheats, it can cause the car to stall and turn off. It may start back up once the engine cools down.
Transmission Problems:
If the transmission is failing or slipping, it can cause the car to stall and turn off. It may start back up if the problem is resolved.
Clogged Catalytic Converter:
If the catalytic converter is clogged, it can cause the engine to stall and turn off. It may start back up if the converter is replaced.
Faulty Sensors:
Various sensors in the engine can fail, causing the car to stall and turn off. It may start back up once the faulty sensor is identified and replaced.
Electrical Issues:
Faulty wiring or a failing electrical system can cause the car to stall and turn off. It may start back up once the wiring is repaired or the electrical system is replaced.
If your car is turning off while driving but then turning back on, it’s important to take it to a mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and resolve the issue. Driving a car that is prone to stalling can be dangerous and should be addressed promptly.
Ways To Fix If Car Turns Off While Driving But Turns Back On
If your car turns off while driving but turns back on, there are several things you can do to fix the issue:
Check The Battery:
The battery provides the power to start the engine and run the electrical system. If the battery is dead or weak, it can cause the car to stall. You can have the battery tested at an auto parts store and replace it if necessary.
Inspect The Alternator:
The alternator charges the battery and provides power to the electrical system. If it fails, it can cause the battery to die and the car to stall. So, it is the best practice to test your alternator and replace it if it is not working effectively.
Check The Fuel System:
A clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump can cause the engine to stall. Check the fuel filter and replace it if it’s dirty. You can also have the fuel pump tested at a mechanic and replaced if it’s faulty.
Examine The Ignition System:
A failing ignition coil or spark plug can cause the engine to stall. You can have the ignition system tested and replace any faulty components.
Check The Air Intake System:
A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine and cause it to stall. Replace the air filter if it’s dirty.
Inspect The Cooling System:
If the engine is overheating, it can cause the car to stall. Check the coolant level and replace any damaged hoses or leaks.
Check The Transmission:
A failing transmission can cause the car to stall. It can majorly affect your car. Thus, ensure proper inspection of your transmission and replace it ASAP to avoid any other major faults.
Examine The Sensors:
Sensors provide a sign of the health of your car parts. Faulty sensors can cause the engine to stall. It can cause misinterpretation of data and ultimately affect a long queue of parts in your car. Therefore, sensor replacement is the best option.
Inspect The Electrical System:
Faulty wiring or a failing electrical system can cause the car to stall. Have the wiring and electrical system inspected and repaired if necessary.
If the problem persists after checking these components, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic for a diagnosis. Driving a car that is prone to stalling can be dangerous and should be quickly sorted out.
How Much Will it Cost to Fix the Problem?
The cost of fixing a car that turns off while driving but turns back on can vary widely depending on the underlying cause of the problem. Some issues, such as a dirty air filter or a failing ignition coil, can be relatively inexpensive to fix, while others, such as a failing transmission or electrical system, can be much more costly.
Here are some estimated costs for common replacement that may be necessary if your car is turning off while driving but then turns back on:
● Battery replacement: $100-$300
● Alternator replacement: $300-$500
● Fuel filter replacement: $50-$100
● Fuel pump replacement: $300-$1,000
● Ignition coil replacement: $150-$300
● Air filter replacement: $20-$50
● Coolant system repair: $100-$500
● Transmission repair or replacement: $1,000-$3,000 or more
● Sensor replacement: $100-$300
● Electrical system repair: $100-$1,000 or more
These are rough estimates, and the actual cost of repairs can vary depending on the make and model of your car, as well as the severity of the issue. It’s always best to get a detailed estimate from a qualified mechanic before agreeing to any repairs.
Car Turns Off While Driving But Turns Back On – FAQs
There could be a variety of issues causing this problem, including a failing alternator, battery, fuel system, ignition system, sensors, or electrical system.
No, it’s not safe to drive a car that stalls while you’re driving. It can be dangerous for you and other drivers on the road.
You should take your car to a mechanic to diagnose the issue and recommend a course of action.
It depends on the underlying issue. Some repairs, such as changing the air filter, can be done yourself, while others, such as a failing transmission, require a qualified mechanic.
The cost of repairs can vary depending on the underlying issue, with some repairs costing as little as $50-$100 and others costing thousands of dollars.
