Engine stopping

FOCUS2003

MEMBER
2003 FORD FOCUS
1.6L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
136,000 MILES

Hi, I have had this problem of the engine randomly stopping while driving.

When the engine stops, all electronics still remain on and it can be started again by switching car off and then on again.

Temperature gauge says it is not overheating and the engine seems to run fine.

I do have leak on the exhaust just where the exhaust starts, that part which is flexible. Could this have something to do with the problem?

Sometimes when the engine stops, it has hard time starting again like it is not getting enough fuel or something like that.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.com. It does sound like a fuel related issue. That is where I would start. Here are general directions for checking fuel pressure:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

This link includes how to check a fuel pressure regulator.

Here is a video:

https://youtu.be/peh7-pFycyc

There is a pressure test point with a schrader fitting in the fuel rail that relieves fuel pressure and measures the fuel injector supply pressure for service and diagnostic procedures. You will need a fuel pressure gauge. Most parts stores will lend you one.

I have attached a table which has all fuel pressures from ford vehicles. I have to say, there is no 1.8L listed for this car. The smallest one is a 2.0L. Double check to make sure you have the right one.

I hope you find this to be helpful. If you have additional questions, let me know.

Take care,
Joe

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Monday, May 14th, 2018 AT 5:39 PM

FOCUS2003

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Thanks Joe,

I did reset the ECU after my post, and it has been running fine so far. I did look some codes from ford test menu and I have code D262 � CAN-BUS communication error. Can the be related to the problem?

My engine is actually 1.6L but I choose 2.0L since there was no smaller option. I try to test fuel pressures when I get the gauge.

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Wednesday, May 16th, 2018 AT 9:37 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Hi, yes it could be an issue. If it is running good, you may want to see if it continues. If your lucks like mine, it will get worse. Lol

Let me know if you have other questions.

Joe

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Wednesday, May 16th, 2018 AT 4:45 PM