Q: Car starts but won't stay running

asked by on November 19, 2016

A couple days ago I was driving my car and it completely stalled out and wouldn't start back up. Earlier that day it stalled but cranked back up with no problem and I didn't think nothing of it. But prior to that I experienced a couple times it sputtered a little as I tried to accelerate which was kind of odd. So I replaced the crankshaft sensor and also spark plugs and wires. At first my car wasn't even starting at all so after I replaced the crankshaft sensor it starts now just won't stay running. I thought it may be due to bad wires and plugs and replaced them as well. Car is doing the exact same thing as far as starting but not staying running. I've now narrowed it to being either the ignition control module, coil packs, or cam sensor but don't have money to keep spending on parts that I really don't need. With what I have explained so far what do u think the problem may be?

My car has 200000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Car is stalling Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there:

Actually, instead of trying to trace this as an ignition issue, the problem is most likely fuel related; perhaps as simple as clogged or dirty throttle body or fuel injectors that need to be cleaned. Completing this service is very cost effective and a good way to start your diagnostic inspection. If you’re able to do this, start by cleaning the throttle body to see if that helps. If not, contact a professional mechanic to have them complete an engine is stalling inspection.

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 does the Low Tire Pressure warning light mean?
Your Altima is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). It’s designed to keep track of the amount of air in your tires. If one of them drops below the threshold, the system turns on the Low Tire Pressure...
How do I check the brake fluid levels?
You should periodically check your brake fluid levels to make sure that you have enough fluid in the system. To check the brake fluid, pop the trunk, and locate the brake fluid reservoir. Make sure that the fluid level is...
Car not starting after replacing battery
Hi there. The most common cause of that vehicle not starting is the fuel pump and fuel filter. Over time, the pump motor will stop working and needs to be replaced. I would recommend having a technician come out and...
SUV rear brake squeaking - 2015 Buick Encore
You may consider having the brake pads changed with some non-Buick pads (i.e. aftermarket). Based on the number of complaints on this issue, General Motors seems to have a mismatch on brake pad material with this model. This will, unfortunately,...
Why car surges when get in last gear n rpm goes up and down. shift good until last gear
Automatic transmissions can be tricky. When diagnosing them, always start with the simple solutions first. Low transmission fluid can lead to slow and or no shifting between gears. Check your owners manual for information on checking your vehicles transmission fluid....
car shaking/vibrating when idle
Hello. This sounds like potentially a failing idle air control valve or potentially a misfire. The idle air control valve regulates the air intake into the engine as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the engine....
Locate master reset button on top of motor
Hello. The only sort of reset switch equipped on a Ford Expedition would be the fuel pump inertia switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-pump-shut-off-switch-replacement). The purpose of this switch is to cut off power to the fuel pump if the computer detects a harsh...
Over heating
Hello. Thank you for writing in. It sounds like you need to replace the thermostat housing, and possibly the thermostat as well. The temperature gauge on your dashboard is commonly misunderstood. The thermostat and temperature gauge will only give you...
2007 Infiniti fx35 cranking but not starting. Do you know what the problem might be?
Hi there. The fuel pump is not energizing and causing the engine to not start. Check the fuel pump relay and listen for it to click. Also listen for the fuel pump to hum when the key is turned on....

Related articles

2012 Toyota Tundra vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado: Which One Should I Buy?
Large work trucks are meant for one thing: work! These vehicles are rough and ready, and can handle nearly anything you throw at them, with the exception of a car pool. While they offer two or four door options, you...
The Top 5 Selling Cars in Alaska in 2012
Alaska Alaska requires a different kind of vehicle to handle both the terrain and the wintery conditions. While some of the most popular options for the Alaskan terrain in previous years included options such as the Subaru Forester and the...
How to Get Chevrolet Dealership Certified
Chevrolet car dealerships offer automotive technician jobs to mechanics who are certified through the many training programs available.