Q: Car dies when the engine is cold but works fine after it warms up

asked by on November 06, 2016

When I turn on my car when the engine is cold, the engine dies immediately. I have to press the gas pedal multiple times in order to keep it from dying. I have to do this for at least 10 minutes until the car warms up. Also, when I come to a stop or a red light, while press down on the break, my car shakes a lot. Thanks for the help.

My car has 175000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Temp gauge goes up and down
Hi there. The temperature sensor is the device used to determine the estimated engine coolant temperature reading. The sensor itself is not always perfect. This device sends a signal to the computer and in some cases, the instrument cluster as...
My car wont start it says something about the shifter and just clicks
There is a technical bulletin out for your 2015 Dodge Charger to reprogram the transmission control module to address this problem specifically. If you can't get it to crank (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-not-starting-inspection), you will need to have the vehicle towed to the...
Car quit while driving then started back up. Went dead again. Would not start back up.
Hello. If you are having power supply issues, you need to first suspect and test your battery. For the testing of your fuel pump, you can connect a battery charger while you are diagnosing your fuel pump. I certainly would...
Fuel gauge is not working and stays on empty.
The false empty reading on your dashboard can be caused by several different components. One of which is the fuel modules themselves. If they both have failed, it is likely do to an electrical power or data connection feeding into...
Is CBS useful on slippery roads, gravel etc
Hello, thank you for writing in. CBS is also known as combined braking system, or linked braking system. What it does is link up front and back brakes on motor cycles and scooters to reduce lock up of having to...
Battery light
Hi There, It sounds like you may have a charging problem that may be a result of a faulty alternator or voltage regulator. You may have a failing voltage regulator that could be allowing the alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement) to supply too...
When I press on the gas the tires sound like their gonna fall off while I'm deiving
The required repair will depend on whether the vibration is suspension related versus engine related. If the tires are vibrating, there might be a wheel imbalance, tire defect, or suspension fault. If it is the engine vibrating, typically the cause...
02 nissan altima wont reverse
Check to see if the "manual lever" on the transmission actually moves into the reverse "detent" position. You might be able to indirectly determine that by checking to see if the reverse lights come on when you select for reverse....
2014 jeep patriot reading code u 0401. Jeep wont accelerate when given gas. Traction control light blinks and lightning bolt light
The U0401 code broadly identifies "communication errors" in the vehicle's controller area network (CAN). In your circumstance, because the electronic throttle control (ETC) warning light has come on, an attempt should be made to diagnose the ETC system first because...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Nissan LEAF
The The introduction of the LEAF represented the beginning of an age many car experts were skeptical would even happen – true mass production of a 100% electric vehicle. Not only did it happen but the LEAF was grabbed up...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Realtor or Real Estate Agent
If If you make your living as a realtor or real estate agent, you may have a number of considerations when it comes to purchasing a used vehicle. The most common considerations are budget, ability to transport people, and comfort....
Understanding Nissan Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Nissan service indicator lights let you know when and what service your car needs.