Keep Your Car Prepared

Reasons Your Car Might Breakdown While Driving

If you are having a problem with your car dying while you are driving down the road, then you need to locate the problem part and replace it as soon as possible. Your car dying on the road is a hazard both for yourself and those you share the road with, so it should not be ignored.

Typically, there are three problems that can cause your car to die while driving down the road. They are:

  • a clogged fuel filter
  • distributor sensor failure
  • alternator failure

The good news is that each of these three problems are relatively simple to repair yourself, or to have your mechanic repair for you.

Clogged Fuel Filter

A clogged fuel filter is the main cause of a car dying as it is driven down the road. Your car's engine needs fuel in order to make it run. Over time, the filter for the fuel can become clogged with contaminates that enter your gas tank when you are adding gasoline. This clogging causes a blockage in the flow of gasoline, and that lack of gas will cause your car's engine to stop running.

To fix this problem, you will need to purchase a replacement fuel filter and install it in your car. The fuel filter will be located near the engine block and will be easy to access and change. You can find the exact location by searching for your car's model online, or by consulting your operator's manual.

Distributor Sensor Failure

Most vehicles have a sensor that is located within their distributor. This sensor controls the electrical current that travels to each of your car's spark plugs. When the distributor sensor fails, it will cause an electrical disruption in your engine's firing ability. This disruption will often cause your vehicle to die in the middle of the road and then not want to start again.

The distributor sensor is simple to repair and is located under your vehicle's distributor cap. You can purchase a replacement sensor at your local auto parts house or have it replaced by a mechanic.

Alternator Failure

The function of your vehicle's alternator is to continually charge the battery. When the alternator in your car starts to fail, you may first notice that your headlights are not as bright as they once were. Additionally, the car may die while you are driving it down the road or may not start after you have driven the car.

To fix this problem, you will need to replace the failed alternator with a new one from your local auto parts store. The alternator is an electrical part and cannot be repaired.

Conclusion

By discovering the root problem with your car, you can then take the necessary steps to fix it. This will help to keep you and others safe on the road. If you are unable to fix this critical problem with your vehicle, then you should immediately take it to a local, licensed automobile mechanic in your area. The auto repair shop will be able to diagnose the cause of the problem and fix it for you once and for all.


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