Q: Car won't stay running
My car starts but won't stay running. Then the battery dies.
Recommended Services
| Battery will not hold a charge Inspection | $94.99 - $114.99 | Get a Quote |
Sounds like you might be having an alternator problem. The vehicle uses the battery to start, once it is running the alternator takes over providing the vehicle with all the electricity it needs. If the alternator fails, the car continues to run until the battery is drained. If you recharge the battery it will start and run until the battery is drained again. A mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, will be able to test your battery and charging system to get you back on the road.
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
What others are asking
Clutch is out
There are a few variables to account for when a clutch goes out. The clutch itself needs to be checked to see if it's the only problem as well as the transmission. I recommend having the clutch system checked throughly...
A/C fan blows, but no cold air
Hello. Unfortunately there is not a switch for the seasons on this vehicle. If it is not blowing cold then it is usually an issue with low refrigerant. The system gets low due to a leak and the compressor will...
Random stalling of a '07 Accord
The most likely problem here is the ignition switch. It's a design flaw of those. They probably should have a recall but Honda didn't recall them for some reason. Change the ignition switch - the electrical portion. They go bad...
Engine overheating replacing thermostat
Hello. Let me start off by saying that it is just as bad, if not worse, to run an engine with no thermostat as it is to run it with a bad (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/thermostat-replacement) one. It will also cause engine damage....
Can't find a ecu.
You can use the engine but you are going to have a hard time getting it to work since the two years are a generation apart when it comes to the computer systems. The 1994 was an OBD1 and the...
Can it be the PPS sensor? or the app sensor?
Hi. First question to ask is if the Check Engine light is illuminated? If any portion of the electronic throttle malfunctions, it should automatically turn on the a warning light, and go into engine "limp mode" with limited power and...
My car jerks when I drive - what is wrong with my car?
Hi there: It really depends on the type of jerking that's occurring with your Chevrolet. If the engine's RPM is surging while the vehicle is in gear, the issues could be caused by a mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-does-the-mass-airflow-sensor-do), O2...
How long can I drive my car with the engine light on?
Hi there. It is no good to drive a vehicle with the engine light on. The engine light is on for a sensor has picked up something that is not functioning or operating correctly. Check the computer with a scanner...
Will not shift past first gear at about 20 mph. What is causing this? 2002 Isuzu Rodeo Sport V6 3.2l
Hello - the lack of an upshift (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/car-won-t-shift-into-second-and-has-transmission-fluid-leaking-transmission-is-a-200r4-by-genesis-p) from 1st to 2nd could be dirty, burned fluid or clogged filter, or a failed Shift Solenoid "A". Low fluid level and low electrical system voltage can also make the transmission misbehave...
Related articles
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Ignition Ignitor
Common signs include engine misfires, the Check Engine Light coming on, car not starting, and a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Speed Timing Sensor
Common signs include the transmission having difficulty shifting, Check Engine Light coming on, vehicle not starting, and loss of engine power.
How to Replace an Ignition Ignitor
The ignition ignitor sends a signal to supply power and start the engine. A common sign of failure is a disruption in the engine's starting process.
Browse other content
Services
Estimates