When your car stalls out and stops, it can be a frustrating experience. In this article, we will discuss a simple old school trick that you can try to fix the problem. While it may not work for every car, it is definitely worth a try before taking it to the shop and spending money on repairs.
Step 1: Identify the Problem
Before attempting any fixes, it’s important to understand the cause of the issue. The trick we are about to show you is specifically for cars that stall out during idle or have a hard time staying on. If you are experiencing these symptoms, then this trick may help.
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Materials
For this trick, you will need a stick of carburetor cleaner (or brake cleaner), a rag, and optionally, a mass airflow sensor cleaner. These materials are readily available and affordable, making it a low-cost solution.
Step 3: Open the Hood
To begin the fix, pop open the hood of your car and locate the air duct or air cleaner. You will need to remove it completely, but make sure to leave the mass airflow sensor connected.
Step 4: Clean the Throttle Body
Inside the throttle body, you may notice carbon buildup, which can contribute to stalling. Take the rag and soak it with carburetor cleaner. Carefully clean the carbon buildup by wiping it away without moving the butterfly valve.
Step 5: Secure the Accelerator Pedal
To keep the accelerator pedal in place during the cleaning process, use a stick or any suitable object. Insert it in a way that locks the pedal in a fully pushed-in position. This step ensures that the throttle plate won’t move while you clean the throttle body.
Step 6: Clean the Throttle Body Cont’d
Continue cleaning the throttle body by spraying the carburetor cleaner-soaked rag around the throttle plate and butterfly valve. Be thorough and make sure to clean all areas for optimal results.
Step 7: Check the Mass Airflow Sensor
Optionally, you can remove the mass airflow sensor and clean it using a mass airflow sensor cleaner. This step can help improve the overall performance of the sensor and contribute to a smoother running car.
Step 8: Additional Troubleshooting
While the trick we mentioned earlier can fix many cases of stalling, there are other potential reasons why your car may stall out. Low fuel pump pressure, a dirty fuel filter, or a vacuum leak could also be contributing factors. Before attempting any fixes, it’s crucial to diagnose the issue properly to ensure that you address the root cause.
Step 9: Test and Observe
After completing the cleaning process, it’s time to test the car and see if the stalling issue has been resolved. Start the car and let it idle to see if it runs smoothly without any stalling. Observe any fluctuations in the idle and give it some time to settle.
Step 10: Seek Professional Help if Needed
If the stalling issue persists even after trying the old school trick, it may be time to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic can further diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs or adjustments.
In conclusion, if your car stalls and stops during idle, this old school trick may offer a simple solution. By cleaning the throttle body and potentially the mass airflow sensor, you can restore your car’s idle and prevent it from stalling. However, it’s important to note that this trick may not work for every car or every situation, so proper diagnosis is essential. By following the steps outlined in this article and paying attention to any additional troubleshooting needs, you can increase the chances of successfully fixing your car’s stalling issue. Remember, it’s always best to consult a professional if you are unsure or if the problem persists.