Engine shuts off after warmed up

1993 TOYOTA COROLLA
180,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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STEF427
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
The first time it shut off on me I was sitting idle at stop light. When I tried to start it back up it would turn over but not start. Finally, after about a half hour of trying several times, it started and stayed running long enough for me to get home, about one minute. After that I could only drive car maybe 20-30 minutes before it'd shut off on me, I would be driving 55MPH down highway or 35 through town or just sitting idle at lights. Sometimes it would start right back up but most times I'd have to wait several minutes. Now when I start car it'll only stay running several seconds.
It has new cap, rotor, distributor, wires, spark plugs, timing belt, alternator, battery, fuel pump and filter.
The car has been well kept up with regular maintenance tune ups by previous original owner.
Any help is much appreciated. Thank you!
Nov 9, 2021 at 9:31 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

What you described sounds like a traditional crank angle sensor failure. This vehicle has a little different setup, but it works the same. It's called an engine RPM sensor. If it fails, you will lose spark to the plugs and the engine will shut down.

First, take a look through this link that describes the most common symptoms of a crankshaft position sensor problem. Let me know if it mirrors what you experience.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

Next, when it stalls and won't restart, I need you to check for ignition spark to the plugs. Here is a link that explains how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Start with this and let me know the results. Also, let me know if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe
Nov 9, 2021 at 12:42 PM
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