Q: Engine quits intermittently, apparent electrical problem

asked by on October 09, 2016

High mileage but well maintained. Past few months the engine suddenly quits from time to time. No sputtering, just running along fine and then stops. Usually cuts out when parking or at a light, but once while driving along the highway with foot on the gas. Seems electrical since the car clock resets each time. Usually engine restarts with battery seeming to be strong (never seems weak). But a couple of times after quitting everything is dead. No lights. Power windows and door locks don't work either, though sometimes hitting those switches there's a slight sound as if there might be a little juice. Jump starting worked. Battery was changed several weeks back as possible solution. Later a mechanic found and fixed a bad battery cable connection. But the problem still occurs. I'm stumped. Thanks so much.

My car has 290000 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

Grinding noise from around engine
The grinding noise you are hearing, if what you describe lasts less than five seconds, is likely caused by the variable valve timing control actuator (VTC) being defective as per Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 09-010 dated September 2014. The TSB...
New battery dead from trying to start car.
This engine had quite a few different issues that may of caused a no start. The list is ignition module, distributor stator, fuel pump, fuel pump relay, timing belt, ignition coil and wiring issues. The only way to fide the...
Ticking noise
Hello there, a few different faults can cause the vehicle to have this ticking noise. The most common faults would include an issue with the flywheel, belt tensioner (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/drive-belt-tensioner-replacement), alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement), water pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/water-pump-replacement), or engine mechanical issue. I'd recommend...
1992 Manual Geo Tracker Leaking Oil
Just because a vehicle was not abused does not mean they can get above book value for the car. The vehicle is still over 24 years old and may have hidden problems. Remember that most vehicles average about 12000 miles...
What would cause the temperature gauge to go cold to hot then back to cold
The engine temperature is regulated by the thermostat opening and closing to maintain the engine temperature. The cooling fan clutch also will maintain the engine temperature to keep a controlled air flow across the radiator to maintain the engine temperature....
My Mercury Mountaineer 2003 will not start.
Hello, thank you for writing in. What sensor was unplugged when you started the vehicle? You will want to consider this sensor and the different systems that it may provide information to. Without that information the computer may have shut...
Check engine and oil light on
If your vehicle's check engine light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-does-the-check-engine-warning-light-mean-by-spencer-cates) illuminates, there is a malfunction that should be diagnosed and repaired. If you request a check engine light diagnostic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection), a certified mechanic from YourMechanic (https://www.yourmechanic.com) would use a code scanner to retrieve...
Replaced all 4 rotors, calipers and brake pads. After changed everything and bled the brakes, still spongy 2010 Jeep Liberty
Hi there - you still have air somewhere in the brake system - perhaps in the ABS pump itself. I recommend a brake fluid flush service (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-system-flush) performed by a mobile, professional mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, who will...
I have a 2002 Chrysler 300m that had been sitting up for a year. I replaced the rack and pinion but when backing up steering is hard.
Hi there. The issue with the steering being hard seems to be with the pump still having air in it. Start the engine and open the bleed valve slightly. Turn the steering wheel several times from left to right and...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport
The The 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport is a brand new vehicle and is an eco-conscious crossover SUV for the environmentally friend consumer. It comes standard with many features, but also has many available options so it can suit any buyer’s...
2012 Chrysler 200 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu: Which One Should I Buy?
When you are looking for a small-range sedan, you need to get somewhere quickly and inexpensively, and may even need to take a few kids with you. Slightly larger than a commuter car, these mid-size options offer decent gas mileage,...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor
Common signs of a faulty crankshaft position sensor include issues starting the vehicle, intermittent stalling, and the Check Engine Light coming on.