The fuel pump is responsible for supplying the engine with fuel. If the fuel pump fails, the engine will not receive any fuel and will shut off.
Symptoms of fuel pump failure:
- The engine cranks but does not start.
- The engine may run rough or stall at idle.
- The check engine light may be illuminated.
2. Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
The crankshaft position sensor is responsible for sending signals to the engine's computer about the position of the crankshaft. If the crankshaft position sensor fails, the computer will not be able to determine when to inject fuel or spark the plugs, and the engine will shut off.
Symptoms of crankshaft position sensor failure:
- The engine cranks but does not start.
- The check engine light may be illuminated.
3. Ignition Coil Failure
The ignition coil is responsible for producing the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine's cylinders. If the ignition coil fails, the engine will not be able to fire the spark plugs and will shut off.
Symptoms of ignition coil failure:
- The engine cranks but does not start.
- The spark plugs may not be firing.
- The check engine light may be illuminated.
4. Fuel Pressure Regulator Failure
The fuel pressure regulator is responsible for maintaining the correct fuel pressure in the fuel system. If the fuel pressure regulator fails, the fuel pressure may be too low or too high, and the engine will shut off.
Symptoms of fuel pressure regulator failure:
- The engine cranks but does not start.
- The engine may run rough or stall at idle.
- The check engine light may be illuminated.
5. Bad Battery Connections
If the battery connections are loose, corroded, or damaged, they will prevent the power from flowing from the battery to the starter. This will cause the engine to crank but not start.
Symptoms of bad battery connections:
- The engine cranks slowly.
- The battery light may be illuminated.
- The headlights and other electrical components may not work properly.
6. Starter Solenoid Failure
The starter solenoid is responsible for engaging the starter motor and connecting the battery to the starter motor. If the starter solenoid fails, the starter will not be able to engage, and the engine will not start.
Symptoms of starter solenoid failure:
- The engine cranks slowly or not at all.
- The starter may make a clicking or grinding noise.
- The check engine light may be illuminated.
Other Possible Causes
In addition to the above, there are a number of other factors that could cause a 2000 Dodge Neon to shut off while driving and not start back up. These include:
- Faulty spark plugs
- Faulty ignition wires
- Bad distributor cap or rotor
- Faulty fuel filter
- Clogged fuel injectors
- Bad O2 sensor
- Damaged vacuum lines
- Failed EGR valve
- Bad computer
If you suspect that your 2000 Dodge Neon is having a fuel, ignition, or electrical issue, it's important to have it diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
