Engine shut off while driving will not start

2009 SUBARU IMPREZA
243,600 MILES • 2.5L • 4 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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SCOTT POLLY
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Was getting on highway and stepped on it to pass a vehicle. As pass was complete the car shut down. Pulled onto shoulder and tried to start, which it did one time but shut down whe put into gear. Had to be towed took to house. After removed from rollback driver tried to start and stated possible timing issue. Need direction to start looking as I am not planning on taking to a garage.
Oct 24, 2019 at 10:06 PM
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KASEKENNY
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
Hi,

First thing is to check to see if there are any codes. This will keep us from guessing or spending a lot of time testing things trying to find the issue.

Next thing is we need to test for spark, fuel, and compression. Pull a spark plug out and connect it back to the wire then hold it against the block and crank the engine to see if there is spark.

If there is spark then spray some starter fluid in the intake and see if it starts.

If you have spark and it does not start with starter fluid then we need to check compression. I attached the specs to see what the compression readings are and make sure they are within spec.

This could be a timing issue which would show up with a compression test but the other tests are easier to start with so let's check those first.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Let me know what you find and we can go from there. Thanks
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Oct 25, 2019 at 9:12 AM
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