Car shut off while driving

2002 MERCURY VILLAGER
197,000 MILES • 3.3L • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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RBROOKS26
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I was driving on the freeway. I pushed "automatic" button for A/C. Instrument cluster including all indicators went blank and engine shut off. Restarted once but very rough idle and shut off as soon as I stepped on accelerator. Is reading codes P0141 and P0325. Service engine soon light had been on for two weeks prior to this happening. Accessory drive belt on A/C was snapped during this incident. I have checked all fuses I can think to check and all are okay. Fuel pump shut off is not tripped, I already tried resetting that. I am at a loss. Any suggestions?
Jul 12, 2017 at 6:52 AM
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STRAILER
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Hello,

You have a oxygen sensor that has shorted out which can cause the engine to shut off. Bank 1 sensor 2 which is the side with the number one cylinder second one back.

Here is a guide to help you get the problem fixed:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-oxygen-sensor

Also before you replace the belt check to see if all of the pulleys are turning by hand (engine off).

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-serpentine-belt

Please let us know what happens.

Cheers, Ken
Jul 12, 2017 at 11:53 AM
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RBROOKS26
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I found a blown fuse finally. It was a 10 amp fuse labeled "relay". I changed it and the car started and instrument panel works. If I try to turn on A/C, even though the belt is not on, the fuse blows and engine shuts off.
Jul 12, 2017 at 2:44 PM
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STRAILER
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Yep, its sounds like the compressor is the problem like its locked up or the clutch coil is shorted. Here is a guide to help you get the problem fixed. Try unplugging the compressor to confirm.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-air-conditioner-compressor

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/re-charge-an-air-conditioner-system

Compressors are cheap on Amazon - $149.00

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JXZIRAI/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=2carprcom-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00JXZIRAI&linkId=ceb60c46083b93a8807e481dca3b93b9

Please let us know what happens.

Cheers, Ken

Jul 12, 2017 at 3:48 PM
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RBROOKS26
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Thank you for the info I'll keep you updated.
Jul 12, 2017 at 6:10 PM
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STRAILER
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Please let us know what you find.

Cheers, Ken
Jul 13, 2017 at 11:37 AM