Q: RPM/engine issue.

asked by on August 09, 2016

I was at a red light when suddenly the RPMs starting jumping up and down. I started driving and it accelerated but the RMPs kept going crazy, finally the engine shut off. It would not turn back on, but it would turn when trying to start it. That was yesterday, today got it to turn on, and it seemed to ideal just fine, I didn't leave it on long though.

My car has 201271 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Check Engine Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Car is stalling Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

The engine’s computer should be scanned first to see if there are codes pointing to the cause of the RPM problems and the no start.

If the codes are tested and no problems are found then try and disconnect the battery and the engine and body module connections. Then add dielectric grease to each of the connector pins and sockets lightly. Once that’s done, reconnect and secure the connections. This will stop the fretting corrosion that these connections may get causing erratic problems.

You may also have to disconnect the dash and other connectors and do the same throughout the entire vehicle.

I suggest having the car looked at by a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, who has the tools and capability of properly diagnosing your stalling issue. Best of luck.

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

Vehicle sputters and bogs down in drive
Hey there, it sounds like you may have an issue with fuel getting to the engine. The most likely cause of this is a failed fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter. With these conditions, I would recommend having a...
Power window not working
Hello! Commonly when a window stops working it is the window regulator causing the troubles. I suggest having a qualified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, check the window regulator and window switch to determine why your window is not...
The car makes ticking sounds while idling
The pinging sound can be caused by many different faults. Without more detail about the noise, I will take the best guess I can at this point. If the vehicle is pinging at idle there is a chance that the...
Helicoil fell into spark plug well. what do I need to do to get it out. thank you.
There are only a couple things to try. One way is to use a magnet like you've already tried to get into the cylinder. I'm not sure what kind of magnet you used but you may have to use a...
Undercoat to prevent rust
Anything to cut off or slow the corrosion (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/is-rustproofing-undercoating-worth-it-by-cheryl-knight) will help but may also cover damage from existing damage. The cost of undercoating is up to you, but it may not be worth it depending on how much you are...
Car won't start in cold weather
Hello, thank you for writing in. There are a few more basic things to try before worrying too much. One of the main issues is that occurs in cold weather is that weaker components really struggle. One of the most...
Transfer case will not lock front drive line in for 4 wheel drive.
Hi there. Sounds like the chain in the transfer case has broken. If your transfer case has gears, then the gears may have broke off or ground down the teeth. Also, the syncronizer slider in the transfer case could have...
Rough idle, p0300 code, running rich
Hi there. Let me refer you to this article explaining what causes the P-0300 OBD-II error code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0300-obd-ii-trouble-code-random-multiple-cylinder-misfire-detected-by-jamahl-walker) and possible solutions to resolve the issue. I believe reviewing this article will be very beneficial to you. Thanks.
Hi, my name is Jorge from North Houston, TX, and I'd like to know the location of the Expansion Valve (Orifice Tube) for 2011 GMC
Your vehicle has an expansion valve mounted at the firewall behind the two a/c lines where they connect to the evaporator assembly. You will need to evacuate the a/c refrigerant and remove line connection and then unbolt the expansion valve....

Related articles

What Does an Engine Inspection Entail?
An engine inspection is the first step in diagnosing engine problems. A pre-purchase engine inspection helps you know if a used car is a good deal.
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...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Dog Trainer
If If you are a dog trainer, you expect a lot from your vehicle. You want a ride that is safe, roomy, and of course, dog friendly, since your training operation will often mean that you need to transport the...