Understanding and Addressing 7 Common Causes of Car Shut-Offs

If you've ever been driving your car and had it shut off, you know how alarming it can be. Not only is it inconvenient, but it can also be dangerous. Knowing the common causes of car shut-offs and how to address them can help you prevent them from happening in the future. In this blog, we'll discuss seven common causes of car shut-offs and how to address them. From fuel issues to electrical problems, we'll cover all the bases so you can get your car running again. You Get More Information, go with Sell My Car Brisbane.

Poor Or Old Battery

A poor or old battery can cause a car to shut off if it can no longer hold enough charge. This can be diagnosed by checking the battery's voltage with a voltmeter and ensuring it is above 12.5 volts. If it is not, the battery should be replaced. To address a poor battery, the battery should be tested with a battery load tester to determine if the battery is still capable of holding a charge. If it is, the battery should be recharged and replaced with a new one if it can not hold a charge.

Low Fuel Level

Low fuel levels can cause a car to shut off due to a lack of fuel getting to the engine. To diagnose this issue, you should check the fuel gauge to see if it reads. If the gauge is reading low, you should check the fuel levels in the tank. If the fuel levels are low, you will need to fill the tank and see if the issue is resolved. If the issue persists, you should check the fuel pump and filter for any blockages or damage that may prevent the fuel from getting to the engine.

Engine Oil Issues

Engine oil issues can cause a car to shut off if the oil level is too low or has become too contaminated. The first step to diagnose this issue would be to check the oil level. If it's low, you'll need to top it off and check for leaks. You should have the oil checked for contamination if it's not low. If the oil is contaminated, then it will need to be changed. You should also check any possible oil filter issues, as a clogged filter can cause a car to shut off.

Electrical Issues

Electrical issues can cause a car to shut off in a few different ways. The most common causes include the following:

• A weak battery.
• Problems with the alternator.
• Loose or corroded battery cables.
• Issues with the starter motor.

To diagnose the issue, you will need to perform a few simple tests to identify the source of the problem.

1. Check the Battery - Inspect the battery for any corrosion or bulging of the casing. If the battery appears in good condition, use a multimeter to test the voltage. The voltage should fall between 12.4 and 12.7 volts. If the voltage is below 12.4, replace the battery.

2. Check the Alternator - Using a multimeter, measure the voltage of the alternator. The voltage should be between 13.8 and 14.2 volts. If the voltage is lower, it could signal a failing alternator.

3. Check the Battery Cables - Inspect the battery cables for any signs of corrosion or damage. If the cables appear in good condition, use a multimeter to test the continuity. If the continuity is low or non-existent, it could state a loose or corroded cable.

Ignition System Issues

Ignition system issues can cause a car to shut off and be difficult to diagnose. Common issues include a faulty spark plug, a faulty distributor cap, or a faulty ignition coil. A mechanic should check the spark plugs for damage or wear to diagnose these issues. If the spark plugs appear in good condition, the distributor cap and ignition coil should be inspected for corrosion or damage. If these parts appear in good condition, then a compression check should be done to see if the engine is running. If the compression check reveals that the engine is not running, then a deeper investigation into the ignition system should be done. This could include inspecting the wiring, checking for a faulty spark plug wire, or checking for a vacuum leak. If these issues are identified and addressed, then the car should be able to run.

Cooling System Issue

Cooling system issues can cause sudden shut-off if the engine cannot maintain a safe operating temperature. A wide range of issues, such as a faulty thermostat, a low coolant level, an airlock in the cooling system, a faulty water pump, or a blocked radiator, can cause this. A mechanic must perform a cooling system pressure test and visually inspect all components to diagnose the exact problem. The mechanic may perform a compression test, cylinder leak-down test, or smoke test.