Intermittent issue of the engine shutting off while driving?

Tiny
DJ49017
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 FORD EXPLORER
  • 4.6L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 118,000 MILES
Sometimes while driving the truck just shuts off; it usually will restart and run after 5 to 10 times of starting, then stalling. It will drive anywhere from 1 to 20 miles before it happens again. It also will shut off just sitting idling.
Thursday, February 23rd, 2023 AT 9:39 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
BRENDON S
  • MECHANIC
  • 653 POSTS
Good morning, DJ49017,

Do you have any engine trouble codes?

It sounds like it is only doing it when it's warmed up. There is a Mass Air Flow/Intake Air Temperature sensor in the side of your air cleaner.

I would remove it and clean it using CRC Mass air flow cleaner. (I will add a picture).

1st: Disconnect the negative battery cable.

2nd: Disconnect the harness from the sensor.

3rd: Remove the sensor. It is held in with one screw.

4th: Put sensor on a clean rag and follow the instructions on the can.

After you are done. Plug the sensor in first then reconnect the battery.

I usually clean both sides at let it dry for a few hours to ensure it is completely dry.

Also, always handle the sensor by the plug. Never touch the rest of the sensor or it can be damaged.

Make sure it is completely dry before re-installing the sensor. Do not use compressed air to try and dry it faster because compressed air can have oil in it and will ruin the sensor.

I would also replace the Air filter and vacuum out the air box while you have it apart. A dirty air filter will cause dust and dirt to accumulate back onto the sensor.

The reason I would start here is because this is monitoring the air coming into the engine, which the ECM uses to adjust fuel. If it is dirty, it will give a false reading and affect the algorithm the computer is using to adjust for fuel and could cause it to stall.

I will add a picture of the cleaner for you as well.

Let me know how it goes or if you need anything else.

Thank you,
Brendon
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Friday, February 24th, 2023 AT 7:19 AM

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