Car stalls at idle or when stopping
An engine that dies when you come to a stop or when idling is a safety issue in traffic.
AreaEngine
UrgencyHigh
Can I keep driving? Limit driving and diagnose promptly. Continued driving can cause damage, stalling or limp mode.
Common causes
Dirty throttle body or idle control valve
Not enough idle air.
Vacuum leak
Mixture too lean at idle.
Torque converter clutch stuck on (automatic)
Stalls the engine like not pressing the clutch on a manual.
Fuel delivery problem
Weak pump or clogged filter.
Faulty crankshaft position sensor
Often stalls when hot.
What to check
- Read fault codes.
- Clean the throttle body.
- Check for vacuum leaks.
- Check fuel pressure.
Related OBD2 codes
Repair guides
Other engine problems
General guidance only. A qualified technician can confirm the cause; brakes, steering and fuel leaks should be checked professionally if in doubt.