Q: Shut down while driving

asked by on May 25, 2017

Shut down while driving alternator replaced in 2014 for recall, original battery no signs of dying, nothing getting power, used jumper for few seconds brake lights worked and rpm gauge moved

My car has 80000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Loss of power Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello, thank you for writing in. It certainly sounds like the vehicle is losing electrical power, which is an almost definite sign that the alternator has failed. It is solely responsible for providing electrical power to the vehicle while driving. If the battery has failed, which can happen prematurely with alternator problems, it may be causing a short in the charging system not allowing the alternator to due its job. Due to the fact both of these components may be responsible, you will want to have them both tested. You can do this with a technician, or at most automotive parts stores. For more help with testing or repairs, contact our service department to schedule an appointment.

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

What should I look for when inspecting the tires?
While keeping your tires properly inflated is very important, it’s also essential that you check their condition regularly. This can help you spot potential problems before they become real issues, and may help prevent a blowout from occurring. Here’s what...
Engine tries to start, but then makes a grinding sound instead of starting.
From your description it sounds like your starter and/or flexplate (flyhwheel if you have a manual transmission) may be damaged. A professional technician, such as the ones at YourMechanic, will be able to give you a definitive answer (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-hard-to-start-inspection) when...
How do I adjust the front manual seats?
The front manual seats can be adjusted to give you the most comfort. Before driving, you should always adjust your seat so that it is easy for you to reach the pedals and the steering wheel. The manual seats can...
How long and what is the process to replace a fuel pressure sensor?
A professional mechanic would require roughly 5 hours. (If just the regulator is replaced that takes about 1 hour). Some parts, as noted below, cannot be re-used, you need a precision inch pound torque wrench, FSM instructions (and TSB updates...
spark plug wires
It all depends on the vehicle and engine you have. The use of 45 degree angle wire boots is so the boot does not tough or get near the exhaust manifold. The 180 degree wire boots may get the wire...
Transmission Issue
Hi there: The symptoms you're describing are similar in many ways to restriction of hydraulic fluid inside the transmission. Sometimes flushing the transmission fluid can help remove those obstructions; but in most cases, it delays the inevitable task of removing...
Catalytic converter
The short answer is yes. I'll assume that the catalyst was taken off because it was damaged. They are expensive parts and many owners choose to replace catalysts with pipes or mufflers, but there are two reasons why that is...
Oxygen sensors
The quality of the fuel in the vehicle may possible trigger an O2 sensor to produce false readings, although this is very rare and not normal. As you may know the [oxygen sensors]((https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oxygen-sensor-replacement) which are part of your emissions system...
Is my repair strategy is good?
The steering torque sensor is Ford part number CL8Z-3F818-A and it was used from model year 2008 to 2012. The best strategy is to buy a brand new sensor from Ford and install it in your existing column. Ford's recommendation...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2013 Mazda CX-5
Key Key Features The Mazda CX-5 has a 2.0 liter four cylinder engine that offers 155 hp at 6,000 rpm. The fuel economy is estimated at 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a General Contractor
If If you're a general contractor, you probably aren’t in the market for a used car. More likely, you’re looking for a pickup truck, because you need to haul equipment and supplies to various job sites. Most contractors will likely...
How Long Does a Battery Temperature Sensor Last?
Most Most people fail to realize just how sensitive the charging system on their car is. If all of the components of your charging system are not working properly, then it will be nearly impossible to crank and run the...