Losing power while driving is a type of mechanical failure that requires a calm response. If your vehicle suddenly shuts down while you’re on the road, knowing who to trust for Toyota repair that comes afterward is just as important as knowing how to get to safety. Here at Heritage Toyota Owings Mills, our certified technicians want to make sure that drivers are prepared for this rare but serious occurrence.
Immediate Steps to Take
When the engine dies, you quickly lose the hydraulic or electrical assist for steering and braking. This means that the steering wheel will feel incredibly heavy and the brake pedal will be stiff. Do not slam on the brakes; instead, immediately turn on the hazard lights to signal the issue to other drivers.
If possible, use the car’s remaining momentum to coast toward the side of the road, applying steady pressure to the brakes only when you are ready to come to a complete stop. Once you have moved away from the flow of traffic, shift the transmission to neutral and attempt to restart the ignition while the car is still rolling, or wait until you are fully stopped in park if traffic is heavy.
Potential Culprits of Engine Stalls
An engine stall is often the car’s way of signaling a lack of resources or a sensor failure. It could be something as simple as an empty fuel tank or a dead battery that prevents the alternator from maintaining a charge for the spark plugs. However, it could also be caused by more complex issues like a failing crankshaft position sensor, a dirty mass airflow sensor, or a clogged air intake.
Schedule Expert Toyota Service in Owings Mills, MD
Dealing with engine stalls is stressful. The team at Heritage Toyota Owings Mills is here to get your Toyota car back into top condition after it experiences a stall. Contact us today to schedule your repair or service appointment!
