Car stalled while driving and will not restart

JULIA ANN AGUILAR

MEMBER
1990 BUICK CENTURY
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
170,461 MILES

I was driving down the interstate changing lanes and when I went to accelerate the engine started to feel like it was losing power. I could not get it to accelerate so I pulled over. No indicator lights came on and the car completely quit running. I gave it time to cool down thinking it may have gotten too hot, and when I tried to turn it over again it would turn over but not start and run. Checked the basics, transmission fluid, oil and water and all were good. Also checked the little valve on the side of the fuel pressure regulator to see if there was fuel (thought maybe the fuel pump went out), there was fuel so I tried to start it again and it still wouldn't start. I am at a loss, I love my car.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Julia,

In most cases, either this is a fuel-related issue or an ignition issue. Here is what I want you to try. See if it will start for a couple of seconds if you use starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we know it is fuel related. If there is no change, then we need to check for spark at the plugs.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Based on what you described, I suspect it is a faulty crankshaft position sensor. I'm basing that on the idea there was fuel when you checked. However, that doesn't mean there is enough fuel pressure to run the engine.

If there is no spark, take a look through this link and let me know if it mirrors what you experienced.

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

If you feel it does and there is no spark to the plugs, it is likely the crankshaft position sensor. Let me know and I can direct you in its replacement.

Take care,

Joe