Engine will not stay running after a minor accident, Inertia switch?

Hello!

Have you been able to retrieve any error codes from the vehicle's computer? I've attached a couple of repair guides that might help you with the process:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-stalls

If you're able to retrieve any codes from the vehicle, let us know and we can try to help you further.

Thanks, Wendy W.

Hello,

You described some intermittent acceleration issues, and that would make sense given you're seeing the EPC (or Electronic Power Control) light on the dash. When that warning light is illuminated, it usually means there is a fault somewhere in the system that controls the position of the throttle valve. I've attached a more detailed description of this system below.

If you're able to share the exact codes that the vehicle is setting, we might be able to pinpoint it a little further for you.

Thanks, Wendy

Hello!

Thank you so much for sending the codes you were able to retrieve.

It seems like only one is a stored code, P2181, and the rest are pending codes.

It might be a good idea to focus on the stored code first. I've attached the code description, possible causes, component locations, and repair procedures below. That particular code suggests there may be a fault with one of the engine coolant temperature sensors or with the thermostat. If there is a fault with one of these components, it could contribute to drivability issues.

Has the vehicle overheated recently, either before or after bumping into the other car?

Also, you may want to check the charging system to make sure it's functioning properly. This repair guide has some helpful tips for running that test:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

Please let me know if there's any other information, I can help you with.

Thanks, Wendy W.

Hi,

It sounds like the engine will crank but not start. Is that correct? Or will it not even crank?

If the vehicle's computer is not receiving accurate information from the sensors, it can cause the air/fuel ratio to be incorrect, and result in a no-start condition or running poorly.

If the thermostat has stuck open, it could prevent the engine from coming up to operating temperature, and that also could cause it to run badly but not necessarily prevent the vehicle from running.

These articles explain this in more detail:

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

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-an-engine-thermostat-works

Since there were so many pending codes, it's possible that they are being caused by a faulty charging system. If the alternator output is too low, or if there is AC voltage present, it can trick the sensors and modules on the vehicle and cause all sorts of drivability issues and "false" codes.

Once you know the charging system is in good shape and you've recorded all the stored codes, you can try clearing them and see what comes back.

I hope this helps, Wendy W.

Okay, thank you. Have you been able to check the fuses in the interior and engine compartment fuse blocks? I've attached diagrams showing their location, below.

Thanks, Wendy