Shut off while driving would not restart?

1995 MERCURY COUGAR

240,000 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

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Car has been running fine. After work, I got in, the car started right up, went down road about 3 block and the car shut off, no warning, sputtering, nothing. It just quit. Couldn't restart. Had battery power, but it would not turnover, it didn't even try, all dash lights came on; battery, check gauges, check engine, all lights. Stuck in middle of traffic. After about 30-40 minutes, tried again. The car started and got to a gas station, then had car towed to usual mechanic. They can't find anything wrong! No "codes" etc. Ideas anyone? Thank you!

Oct 26, 2024 at 8:49 AM

CANNON1349

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
861 POSTS

Hello,

If this vehicle was made in the late half of 1995 it may have OBD2 capabilities, this will come in handy for seeing live data. Otherwise, the OBD1 computer from 1995 and earlier will be almost useless if the fault is not very clear or electrical. There are several factors to consider:

-Fuel Pressure
-Vacuum leaks
-Spark plug condition and wires
-Distributor, cap, and rotor condition
-Ignition timing (controlled by computer)

For this car the ignition timing is not adjustable, however the technician can still watch the timing with a timing light. Until the car begins to act up on a regular basis it will be increasingly difficult to chase down a problem that is not happening in real time. At the end of all this the car may end up needing a computer, which can be relatively inexpensive on older cars.

Keep us updated,
William

Oct 26, 2024 at 1:22 PM

Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.