Stalled while driving and now cranks, but does not start

1998 MERCURY MYSTIQUE

115,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC

CNICKELS

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2 POSTS
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I have driven the car for about a year and not the first problem. I drove it yesterday couple times with no issues. The last trip it started as normal with no issues, drove about 1/4 mile and it just died as if the power shut off with no chugs or odd noises..just dead. Put in neutral and coasted to wide spot and attempted to restart. All lights etc were normal and the engine will turn but not start. I had 1/2 tank gas, switched battery same thing and tapped on started to no avail is all I could think of to do on the spot. Any suggestions?

Mar 15, 2016 at 2:27 PM

CARADIODOC

CERTIFIED EXPERT
34,306 POSTS

This is typical of a failed crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor. The place to start is by having the diagnostic fault codes read and recorded. Those will indicate the circuit or system that needs further diagnosis. If you can get the car to an auto parts store, the people at many of them will read the codes for you for free. Only Chrysler has a way to do that yourself. For other brands, you need a code reader or a scanner.

You must also check for spark and for fuel pressure, but it is important to understand that you must check for both even when you find one missing. The big majority of no-starts are caused by one of those failed sensors, and that will result in a loss of fuel pressure AND spark. If you are missing just spark OR fuel pressure, that is when it is appropriate to diagnose just that system.

Mar 15, 2016 at 2:41 PM

CNICKELS

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks for the quick reply. Yes I will get it somewhere that can check the codes but as of today it is still beside the road. I will check the items you listed. Thanks.

Mar 15, 2016 at 2:45 PM

RENEE L

CERTIFIED EXPERT
1,260 POSTS

Please let us know what the codes show and thank you for visiting 2CarPros.

Mar 17, 2016 at 4:00 PM