Randomly shuts off?

1993 FORD TEMPO

69,000 MILES • 2.3L • 4 CYL • 2WD

STOUTMAN

MEMBER
1 POST

Hello, Stoutman here, I hope you can help I have the car listed above and once I start it, it acts just fine runs an sounds great but after it runs for abouts 15 or 20 minutes it will shut off and it will not start back up for like 45 minutes to an hour later. Then It will do the same thing start run for about 15-20 minutes shut off and an hour later it starts back up over and over just loke clockwork. I can crank on it for like a minute or so, but it drains the battery and fast sometimes like what the heck is the problem, lol. I did buy a new ignition coil and put it on the car already and that didn't change a thing. Please let me know what It could be. Thanks, Stoutman!

Jun 4, 2025 at 8:49 AM

STEVE W.

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
15,200 POSTS

It sounds like a component is getting hot, that shuts it off until it cools enough so it starts working again. The common one on that engine is the ignition module mounted to the side of the distributor. Changing it out is simple, just be sure to clean the surface the module mounts to very well before applying the heat sink compound. Remove the distributor cap and just set it and the hires to the side. Remove the harness connector, then remove the screws from the module and remove it. Clean, apply the new compound and reinstall the screws. Reconnect, install the cap and see if the problem is gone.

Jun 4, 2025 at 10:13 AM

Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.