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What causes a car to run for 5 minutes then shuts off?

Several causes can lead to a car running for 5 minutes and then shutting off.

Fuel System Issues:

1. Low Fuel Pressure: If the fuel pressure is too low, the engine may not receive enough fuel to run properly, leading to a stall after a few minutes.

2. Faulty Fuel Pump: A malfunctioning fuel pump may not be able to provide adequate fuel to the engine, resulting in the car running for a short time before stalling.

3. Clogged Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine, causing a loss of power and eventual stalling.

Ignition System Issues:

1. Faulty Spark Plugs: Worn or damaged spark plugs can cause the ignition timing to be off, leading to engine misfires and a potential stall.

2. Faulty Ignition Coil: A failing ignition coil may not be able to generate enough power to fire the spark plugs, causing engine shutdown.

3. Distributor Issues: Vehicles with distributors may encounter problems with the distributor cap, rotor, or ignition module, leading to a disruption of the ignition process.

Electrical System Issues:

1. Battery Problems: A weak or dead battery can affect the car's ability to start or stay running.

2. Alternator Issues: A faulty alternator may not be able to generate enough electricity to power the car's systems and recharge the battery, causing the vehicle to stall after a short time.

Engine Problems:

1. Engine Temperature Sensor: If the engine temperature sensor is faulty, it can provide incorrect readings to the engine control unit (ECU), which may result in improper engine tuning, leading to engine shutdown.

2. Engine Control Unit (ECU) Issues: A malfunctioning ECU may disrupt various engine control functions, including fuel injection, ignition timing, and air/fuel mixture, causing the car to run for a short time before experiencing engine failure.

To accurately identify the cause, it is recommended to have the car inspected by a professional mechanic who can perform a proper diagnosis using diagnostic tools and further observation of the vehicle's behavior.