Q: My car starts and then dies.

asked by on December 25, 2016

The check engine light codes just came on, and they were the codes for a new Throttle body position sensor and engine coolant temperature sensor. So I swapped these out and now the car will start and then just die. Does the TPS need to be installed a certain way or adjusted?

My car has 256000 miles.
My car has a manual transmission.

Hi there. Try unplugging the new throttle position sensor (TPS) and see if the engine runs normal and does not stall out. If so, then check the idle air control valve (IAC) and see if its functioning. The IAC could be not functioning if the engine is stalling with everything hooded up properly. If you need further assistance troubleshooting your vehicle, then seek out a technician, such as one from Your Mechanic, that can assist you with your stalling situation.

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

Antitheft system not allowing car to turn over
We must determine whether the fault concerns the vehicle or the lock and key set you carry personally. The vehicle system can have a faulty sensor or module causing your concern or a broken/weak transmitter in the key itself. Have...
Car driving sluggish
One of the most common causes for a vehicle to suddenly lose power is a failure in either the fuel system or in the catalytic converter. If the Check Engine Light is coming on, then a mechanic would typically start...
Master cylinder missing a wire
Hello. The brake light can come on for a number of reasons. If the brake pedal feels fine, then the problem is usually electrical. If the only light that is on is the brake light it is typically caused by...
Moonroof drain plugs clogged
Hello. This problem is common to Hummer H3s. It is an involved fix, and most of the incidences are related to the front drain tubes, as the vehicle sits at a slight rake to the front. Access to these is...
Engine idle fluctuates and dies.
This may be a couple of different things. Your truck has what is called a throttle position sensor. The throttle position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/throttle-position-sensor-replacement) is a sensor used to monitor the throttle position of the throttle plate inside the throttle body...
evap. purge solenoid valve?
Hello, testing the EVAP purge solenoid can be relatively simple, with the right tools and knowledge. A technician such as those we have here will have the right tools, but I will provide you with the right knowledge. Testing the...
Serpentine belt broke on 2011 ford fiesta, I am being told pieces got up in crankshaft and they a recommending engine replacement.
The crankshaft is inaccessible as it is contained entirely within the solid metal (cast iron, steel or aluminum) engine block. Consequently, no external drive belt can interfere with, or even touch, the crankshaft. A harmonic balancer is bolted to the...
get a clunk wheb i accel from complete stop.
You may have problems in the driveline or rear end or transmission and should have the problem checked by a mechanic like one from YourMechanic before problem gets worse.

Related articles

How Long Does a Speed Sensor Last?
Today’s Today’s cars are equipped with a very wide range of sensors. Yours has a mass airflow sensor, at least one oxygen sensor, and many others. The vehicle speed sensor (VSS) is usually located on the transmission’s output shaft (although...
How to Check the 5 Essential Fluids in Your Car
Checking your oil and adding engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid are essential for maintaining your car.
The Difference Between a Throttle Body Position Sensor & Throttle Body Temperature Sensor
Though both part of the fuel injection system, the TPS and throttle body temp sensor monitor specific aspects of the fuel/air mixture.