Q: Whenever I drive 1.5 miles, the s3 light starts blinking and then when I stop my car and come back to it, the car won't start.

asked by on April 18, 2017

In the morning, when I go to work, the car starts fine. Then if I drive 1.5 miles, the engine light comes on, the the s3 light on the dashboard starts flashing. When I stop the car to do something and when I come back, the car won't start. I have to wait for hours to get the engine to cool down so it can start again. What is my problem?

My car has 150000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

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

Hello, thank you for writing in. It is difficult to determine the issue without some more information. To start, when the check engine light illuminates, you want to scan the vehicle for diagnostic codes. These are what set the check engine light off, and are meant to tell the driver what the computer has detected is wrong. Codes can be pulled at most automotive parts stores, and by most technicians. Once you have that information you can focus in on one component or system. If the engine is truly overheating, then you want to start by checking your coolant and fluid levels. For more help with diagnosing and resolving the issue, 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

Rough shifting, slow shifting, noisy trans
This is a common problem, and Nissan is aware of it. They have released a Technical Service Bulletin NTB13-079c that outlines the procedure of installing an add-on cooler to help keep the transmission fluid in check. In some cases the...
Power seat not moving forwards or backwards
Hi. The power seat has different motors that control the seat's movement. One moves the seat forward and back, another up and down, and another for tilting. All the motors work separately but connect to the same switch. The switch...
I jus recently gotten a new battery inserted in my car now my car is not starting without it cutting off.
This is your anti-theft system (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-disable-a-car-alarm) taking over as a result of the new battery being installed. This is unfortunately something that usually requires the dealer to reset due to safety precautions. Often times you will need to establish some...
Car won't start, says key error. This is the first time it ever happened
Hello. The key error message you are experiencing can be caused by a few different things. The most common causes are an issue with the immobilizer system, or with the steering column. The immobilizer system is the vehicle's security system....
How to clear the code after installing camshaft position sensor
The only way to clear any codes that may be stored in the computer memory is to have a scanner access and clear the codes. If you need an mechanic like one from YourMechanic to scan the computer and clear...
Hello, I have two questions: 1) How often the Ignition Coil needs to be replaced? and 2) This model requires grease chassis?
Hi there. The spark plugs are rated for 100,000 miles for your vehicle, so you have about 5,000 miles left on their life for a decent spark. I recommend changing the spark plugs with the OEM parts to ensure a...
I have de code P0441
Hi there. The P0441 trouble code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0441-obd-ii-trouble-code-evaporative-emission-control-system-incorrect-purge-flow-by-spencer-clayton) will be seen when the ECU has detected incorrect purge flow in the Evaporative (EVAP) emission control system. When the purge flow is determined to be faulty, a Check Engine Light is set...
Crankshaft replacement fit? 2006 Hummer H3
Hello - the crankshaft on the 3.7l LLR engine does in fact have the same stroke as the L52 3.5l engine in your H3, so there is a good chance it is compatible. Check with your Hummer parts specialist for...
Do universal steering rack boots work
If you have broken steering rack and pinion side boots and cannot find replacements then aftermarket universal boots can be tried. This would be better than no boots at all. They are generic and there is a possibility they may...

Related articles

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.
P0257 OBD-II Trouble Code: Injection Pump Fuel Metering Control "B" Range/Performance (Cam/Rotor/Injector)
P0257 P0257 code definition The P0257 code indicates injection pump fuel metering control “B” range/performance (cam/rotor/injector). What the P0257 code means The P0257 code means that the powertrain control module has found a discrepancy in the signal voltage that goes...
P0413 OBD-II Trouble Code: Secondary Air Injection System Switching Valve A Circuit Open
P0413 means theres a issue with the vehicle’s air injection system due to faulty air injection pump, faulty wiring or faulty air bypass solenoid.