Q: Car stalls when engine in reverse, drive or turning steering wheel all the way

asked by on November 29, 2017

Car idles fine but if i put it into drive or reverse. The engine tom drops and stalls out. Also if i steer all the way to left or right the even will also cut off

My car has 180000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

This may be a sign of a faulty MAP sensor as the vehicle responds adversely to a load put on the motor (i.e. putting it in gear, making turns (which makes use of the power steering pressure switch) turning on AC or engaging the brakes). The Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor senses engine load and generates a signal that is proportional to the amount of vacuum in the intake manifold. The engine computer then uses this information to adjust ignition timing and fuel enrichment. When the engine is working hard, intake vacuum drops as the throttle opens wide. The engine takes in more air, which requires more fuel to keep the air/fuel ratio in balance. When the computer reads a heavy load signal from the MAP sensor, it adjusts the fuel mixture to slightly more rich than normal so the engine can produce more power. The computer will then retard (back off) ignition timing slightly to prevent detonation that can damage the engine and decrease performance. This may also be caused by other closely related components such as a dirty or failing mass air-flow sensor, a faulty throttle position sensor or potentially a vacuum leak. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and inspect your vehicle.

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

Multiple problems with my car.
I suggest you leave this extensive list of issues to a professional technician, such as the ones at YourMechanic for repair. These problems are likely unrelated and will require individual attention. The dash lights and horn are probably issues with...
2006 Mercedes Benz E55 W211 has the SRS lights that stay on
The light means that you have a problem with your air bag system ([https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/is-it-safe-to-drive-with-the-air-bag-light-on](https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-air-bags-work)) also known as the SRS (safety restraint system). Those are very, very complicated systems. You're going to have to find somebody who has a star level...
oil leak at the all wheel drive transfer case
Rebuilding a transfer case for your Toyota Sienna is a pretty lengthy process, especially if it has not been done previously. The labor time it takes to remove and install everything for the transfer case is around twelve and a...
My car feels as if I am driving it in neutral but I'm not.. my RPM will go up but I cant accel over 20mph. Only happens sometimes
Hi there. This may be a sign of a faulty transmission control solenoid or simply low transmission fluid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-fluid-service). Modern automatic transmissions use pressurized hydraulic fluid to change gears. Every time a gear change is required, the car's computer activates...
My Check Engine Light is on - 2008 Mazda Tribute
Hi there: The little engine icon is typically the check engine light, which is triggered when an error code is activated and stored in the ECU of your Mazda Tribute. If the engine is running hot, it's most likely that...
I have white/bluish smoke coming out of the exhaust occasionally. I have no power loss and it happens infrequently.
I suggest you study the smoke and try to recognize a pattern. It might mean that you have to spend a lot of time looking in the mirror, so try not to be unsafe. If you are having a problem...
How much to fix the alternator
Hi there. In order to provide you with an accurate quote, please fill out a request for an alternator replacement (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement). Once we receive your data, we'll be able to send you an estimate.
2003 Pontiac grand am wont crank
Hello, thank you for writing in. The vehicle's starting system is not terribly complicated. You also need to consider the charging system as well. Regarding the starting system, with a new battery and starter, you are left with the ignition...
My 2002 cl600 starts then dies what is the problem
Hello there. Typically, a vehicle will start and then quit because of an issue with the fuel or electrical system. Once running, the engine requires a constant flow of fuel and good spark to keep that fuel igniting. If fuel...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Ford F-450
The The 2012 Ford F-450 is a serious truck with major towing and hauling capacity. What it lacks in gas mileage, it more than makes up for in durability, suspension, power, and torque. Plus, with a six-speed shiftable automatic transmission,...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re an Interior Designer
As As an interior designer, you need to transport a great many different items, including fabric, paint and wallpaper samples and sometimes even furniture items. You probably don’t handle overly large loads very often, and when you have to, you’ll...
The Top 5 Selling Cars in Arkansas in 2012
Arkansas, Arkansas, like many other states, has to deal with a wide range of weather, from the stifling to the icy. This means drivers need vehicles that can handle the heat while also helping them get through slippery conditions. In...