Fuel System Problems:
* Fuel Pump Failure: The fuel pump might be failing to deliver enough fuel to the engine. This can be due to age, wear, or a faulty pump relay.
* Clogged Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter restricts fuel flow to the engine, leading to stalling.
* Low Fuel: Simply running out of gas is a common cause.
* Fuel Injector Issues: Clogged or malfunctioning fuel injectors prevent proper fuel delivery to the cylinders.
* Fuel Pressure Problems: Low fuel pressure in the system can starve the engine of fuel.
Ignition System Problems:
* Spark Plug Issues: Worn, fouled, or damaged spark plugs can prevent the combustion process.
* Ignition Coil Failure: A faulty ignition coil won't deliver the necessary spark to ignite the fuel-air mixture.
* Ignition Wiring Problems: Damaged or loose wiring can disrupt the electrical signal to the spark plugs.
* Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) Failure: This sensor tells the engine's computer where the crankshaft is, and a faulty one can disrupt ignition timing.
* Cam Position Sensor (CMP) Failure: Similar to the CKP sensor, but for the camshaft.
Air Intake System Problems:
* Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) Failure: The MAF sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine. A faulty sensor can provide inaccurate readings, leading to improper fuel mixture and stalling.
* Vacuum Leaks: Leaks in the vacuum system can disrupt the proper air-fuel mixture.
* Air Filter Clogging: A severely clogged air filter restricts airflow, potentially leading to stalling.
* Throttle Body Issues: A dirty or malfunctioning throttle body can disrupt airflow.
Other Potential Causes:
* Alternator Failure: If the alternator isn't charging the battery, the car could stall once the battery runs down.
* Battery Problems: A weak or failing battery can lead to insufficient power for the ignition system.
* Transmission Problems: In automatic transmissions, issues can cause a sudden loss of power and stalling.
* Overheating: An overheated engine can cause stalling as a safety mechanism.
* Computer Issues (Engine Control Module - ECM): A faulty ECM can cause a variety of problems, including stalling.
Determining the exact cause requires diagnosis, often by a qualified mechanic. The circumstances of the stall (e.g., happened suddenly, after acceleration, only at idle) can provide clues, but professional inspection is usually necessary for accurate diagnosis and repair.
