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What causes a ford engine to shut off when brakes applied?

There are several possible causes for a Ford engine to shut off when the brakes are applied:

1. Vacuum Leak: A vacuum leak in the brake booster can cause the engine to shut off when the brakes are applied. The vacuum booster uses the engine's vacuum to assist in brake application, and a leak can disrupt this process, causing the engine to stall.

2. Brake Light Switch: A malfunctioning brake light switch can also cause the engine to shut off when the brakes are applied. The brake light switch is responsible for sending a signal to the engine control unit (ECU) when the brakes are applied, and if the switch is faulty, the ECU may interpret this as an unintended engine shutdown.

3. Engine Control Unit (ECU): In some cases, a faulty ECU can be responsible for the engine shutting off when the brakes are applied. The ECU controls various engine functions, including fuel injection and ignition timing, and a malfunction can lead to the engine shutting off unexpectedly.

4. Fuel System Issues: Problems with the fuel system, such as a faulty fuel pump or clogged fuel filter, can also cause the engine to shut off when the brakes are applied. If the fuel supply to the engine is interrupted, the engine will stall.

5. Electrical Issues: Electrical problems, such as a short circuit or a faulty ignition switch, can also lead to the engine shutting off when the brakes are applied. Electrical faults can disrupt the flow of power to the engine, causing it to stall.

It's important to note that diagnosing the exact cause of the engine shutting off when the brakes are applied may require a detailed inspection and testing by a qualified mechanic or automotive technician. If this issue occurs, it's recommended to have the vehicle checked by a professional to determine the root cause and ensure safe operation.