Intermittent engine shutting Off

1999 BUICK REGAL

210,174 MILES • 3.8L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

MANDY BRIGHT

MEMBER
2 POSTS

My car was shutting off often. It will do it randomly and less often than when I first got it. The car had been sitting for a while. Had bad gas but that is no longer an issue. It sometimes sputters and acts like it wants to stall out when I am driving it. I refuse to drive longer distances because of this problem. I really need to know what could be causing this problem. I have used a computer to check codes, the codes it threw were the mass air flow sensor and gas running lean. I fixed that problem. I am just wondering what else can be done to fix this problem without costing me a lot of money? I also replaced the speed shift sensor. Is there more to it?

Oct 20, 2020 at 2:36 PM

DANNY L

✓Experienced Mechanic
5,648 POSTS

Hello again.

Okay, you might have a weak or failing fuel pump that is not providing adequate fuel pressure causing this symptom. That is what I would check first. Here is a tutorial showing what is involved to test the fuel pressure:

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

If you don't have access to a fuel pressure tester most auto parts stores have a tool loaner program and can rent you one. The fuel pressure specification for your car is with Key On-Engine Off is 48-55 PSI. After performing this test get back to us with what you found and we'll go from there. Hope this helps and thanks again for using 2CarPros.

Danny-

Oct 20, 2020 at 3:16 PM

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