My car dies when I stop at a red light
Stalling at a stop usually means the engine cannot hold its idle. Common causes are a dirty throttle body, a vacuum leak, a weak fuel pump, or a sensor giving bad readings. It is a safety problem because you lose power steering and brake assist when the engine dies.
Urgency
Come in today
What to do right now
What to do right now
- 1If it stalls, put it in park, turn on your hazards, and restart. Keep a firm foot on the brake since the pedal gets hard.
- 2Stay out of the fast lanes and avoid I-95 until it is fixed.
- 3Note if it happens with the AC on, when the car is hot, or right after starting.
- 4If it will not restart, or stalls more than once on a trip, have it towed.
What it usually is
What it usually is
Car diagnostics
We watch the idle live and test fuel pressure and vacuum to find why the engine gives up.
See the serviceTune-up and spark plugs
Worn plugs or coils can leave the engine too weak to stay running at idle, especially with the AC pulling on it.
See the serviceCheck engine light
Even if the light is off, codes can be stored. They point us to the sensor or valve that is acting up.
See the serviceQuestions people ask
Why does my car only stall with the AC on?
The AC compressor adds load to the engine at idle. A weak idle can handle it in the morning but not in the afternoon heat. Cleaning the throttle body or fixing a vacuum leak often solves it.
Could it be my battery?
A weak battery rarely makes a running car stall. A failing alternator can, if the voltage drops too low. We test both.
Did driving through a flooded street cause this?
It can. Water can get into the air intake or soak sensors and connectors. If stalling started after a flooded road, tell us. If the engine sounds wrong, do not keep cranking it.
Is it safe to drive?
Not really. A car that stalls in traffic can get you rear ended. Get it checked today.