Q: Car was cutting off at random, now it won't start.

asked by on November 03, 2016

I was having a problem with my car cutting off at random times, but would re-start. Well the other day I was sitting in my car on lunch break, and it cuts off on me and wouldn't re-start. I was suggested to replace my fuel pump, which needed to be done since my car was hydro locked which is what the last shop said and i had alot of work done to it, and for some reason they didnt replace the fuel pump. well after replacing the fuel pump, same results it will turn over but will not start. Now i will be replacing my ignition coil, it does look old and worn. also i did have auto zone read my codes, they are p0420 p0108 p0401. Any suggestions?

My car has 182916 miles.

Hi there. It sounds like there is a possibility of a fault with the MAP sensor system for the P0108 code, an EGR fault for the P0401, and a catalytic converter fault for the P0420 code.

Your concern could be a combination of the MAP sensor fault and a possible idle air control valve failing. If there is a short or open circuit, vacuum leak, or damage to either of these components then the engine idle could be affected.

The ignition coil may look old, but still be properly functioning and replacement will still have you at square one. I strongly suggest acquiring a qualified technician to perform an inspection to avoid replacing unnecessary parts. YourMechanic has several available technicians that can assist you with a Check Engine Light inspection, a car does not start inspection, and provide an estimate and direction of repair.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How to clean carbon buildup on a 2015 Eco Boost Mustang
It's easy, your catch can isn't going to stop it, so when you put that on you don't have to worry. But to clean it now, all you have to do is take off any big vacuum on the intake...
how do you know if you need a whole throttle body compared to just cleaning it or replacing sensors
I would recommend cleaning and replacing the sensors (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/throttle-position-sensor-replacement) first. Generally, throttle bodies do not need to be replaced completely, but rather just need specific parts related to them replaced. I would also recommend checking the mass air flow sensor...
Ignition problems
Hello. If you are losing battery power to particular circuits then most of the time this is caused by a bad ground connection, a failing battery cable (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-cable-replacement), or it may be a bad transmission position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-position-sensor-switch-replacement). It is...
Car keeps stalling - 2010 Chevrolet Equinox
Hey there. This may be a sign of a failing throttle position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/throttle-position-sensor-replacement). The throttle position sensor (TPS) is a sensor used to monitor the throttle position of the throttle plate inside the throttle body in relation to your...
Stabilizer link loose light coming on
Hello. Thank you for writing in. The stabilizer link and traction control lights can illuminate for several reasons. The simple fix would be if a sensor has failed somehow. The more complex issues would include mechanical damage or failure of...
Clicking noise as I accelerate. Has an oil change yesterday
Hello. Being that you just got your oil change you will want to check with the shop to ensure that the right weight of oil was used in your vehicle. If the wrong weight of oil was used it could...
Wrong Flexpipe size repair
Shortening the flex pipe should not have an affect on performance of the engine. The length of the pipe on a daily driver is not something that is very critical to operation. In a race car it becomes more important...
How do I get the message theft attempt s off
Hi there. Typically this warning light issue is associated with the inability to start the car as well. The way this code is reset in that case is to turn the key in the accessory switch location (first click that...
Why does my thermostat not read anything on dash board 1994 Dodge Ram
Hello. If the gauge does not move at all even when the vehicle is turned off and on then the gauge is bad. If the gauge cycles but then does not move when the vehicle is turned off and on...

Related articles

P0453 OBD-II Trouble Code: Evaporative Emission Control Pressure Sensor High Input
P0453 code means that a reading from the engine’s evaporative pressure sensor is higher than normal due to fuel tank vapor leaks into the system.
P0682 OBD-II Trouble Code: Cylinder 12 Glow Plug Circuit
P0682 means that the PCM detects a variance in the reference voltage coming from the cylinder 12 glow plug circuit due to faulty plugs, or relays.
B1908 OBD-II Trouble Code: Air Bag Crash Sensor #2 Ground Circuit Short to Battery
B1908 means there is a malfunction with the #2 airbag crash sensor circuit, likely due to a bad electrical component or defective sensor.