If your car stalls while in idle, it can be more than a little embarrassing—especially if you’re in the front of a long line of cars at a traffic signal. We’ve had plenty of customers come in who have had this same issue, so let me explain some of the problems that could be happening to cause your car to idle like this.
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Your spark plugs and wires need to be replaced.
Your spark plugs are responsible for sending electric currents to your car’s engine from the ignition. If the plugs and their wires are worn out, this can cause a disruption in the flow of electric currents and make your car want to stall or even misfire when in idle. It would be a good idea to get your spark plugs and wires replaced as soon as possible, if this is the case.
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Your mass air flow sensor has malfunctioned.
We’ve mentioned before in this blog that your car contains a large number of sensors that send information to your car’s computer. The mass air flow sensor monitors the quality and quantity of air passing into the engine, which lets your engine know how much fuel to use. If the sensor is dirty or not working properly, then it will send incorrect information to the engine and cause your car to stall out when in idle. In such a case, cleaning or replacing the mass air flow sensor can fix the problem. -
Your idle air control valve has malfunctioned.
The idle air control valve is an important air regulator in your vehicle because it allows only the perfect amount of air into your engine to keep it running properly. However, carbon can build up on the valve and keep it from letting the correct amount of air through or the valve can simply malfunction. When either of these problems occurs, your car can begin to stall when in idle. The valve may need to be cleaned or replaced in order for your car to work well again.
For an accurate diagnosis, it is best to bring your car in to your preferred local auto repair shop. If your car has begun to misfire in idle, this could be very dangerous to the health of your vehicle and it’s important to have it looked at right away.
Consider Ward Automotive for your repair needs.
At Ward Automotive in Bel Air, Maryland, we can determine which factors are causing your car to stall out when in idle and have your car working properly again right away. We service every town in Harford County, including Aberdeen, Bel Air, Burns Corner, Darlington, Edgewood, Fallston, Havre de Grace, Hickory Hills, Jarrettsville, Joppatowne, Perryman, Pleasant Hills, Pylesville, and Riverside. We are not only your Harford County auto repair shop and body shop, but we’re also your neighbors! If you are looking for a neighborhood auto repair shop that you can trust, rest assured that you have come to the right place at Ward Automotive. Bel Air Autobody and Ward Automotive have been servicing the residents of Harford County, Maryland for over 20 years.