For about two days my car has been turning off while in gear

2011 GMC TERRAIN

130,024 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

BMCCULLEY

MEMBER
1 POST

I would have to put it in park and restart it to continue to drive it then if i stop at a traffic light its almost doing a rocking thing while my foot is in the brake.

Oct 25, 2019 at 3:28 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
110,194 POSTS

Welcome to 2CarPros.

Is the check engine light staying on when the engine is running? If it is, the computer should be scanned to identify diagnostic trouble codes. Most parts stores will do that for free.

Now, the issue can be a few things. First, it could be an issue with the idle air control valve. (IAC). The IAC is what maintains engine idle speed. Also, it could be as simple as an engine vacuum leak.

Here are a couple links that discuss both of the things I mentioned. The one for the IAC explains how one is replaced in general. The second one explains how to check for a vacuum leak.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-idle-speed-control-motor-iac

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

If the engine light stays on, have it scanned first and let me know what codes are found. If it doesn't, check the IAC for carbon build up and if it is working. It is just a small electrical motor that moves a pintle valve. Remove it and inspect it. Also, check to see if there are any vacuum leaks.

I will watch for your reply.

Joe

Oct 25, 2019 at 9:17 PM

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