Intermittent engine shutdowns are more than just inconvenient. When a vehicle stalls at an intersection, during acceleration, or while turning into traffic, it puts everyone in and around the car at immediate risk.
In recent years, many California drivers have reported this exact issue across various makes and models, including both gas-powered and hybrid vehicles. These stalls often occur without warning and can be challenging to reproduce, which complicates the repair process and leaves many drivers feeling powerless. If you are experiencing this issue, it is essential to understand that the California Lemon Law may be able to protect you.
Why Engine Stalling Is a Serious Safety Concern
Modern engines are designed to respond quickly and efficiently to driver input. When a vehicle stalls, especially in the middle of traffic or at an intersection, the sudden loss of engine power can create dangerous situations. Drivers may be unable to accelerate or steer effectively, creating a serious hazard for oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Although some stalls resolve after restarting the engine, others may require the vehicle to be towed. Even more troubling, some vehicles do not display any warning signs or diagnostic trouble codes before shutting off. When this happens repeatedly, the problem not only threatens the safety of the driver and passengers, but it also significantly reduces the vehicle’s reliability and value.
Common Causes Behind Intermittent Engine Shutdowns
Intermittent stalling can stem from a wide range of underlying issues. In many cases, dealerships struggle to pinpoint the exact cause because the problem does not occur consistently during inspections or test drives.
Some of the more common root causes include:
- Faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensors.
- Malfunctioning throttle body or electronic control unit (ECU).
- Low fuel pressure caused by a failing pump or clogged injectors.
- Overheating engine control modules.
- Faulty wiring or loose electrical connections.
- Software errors in hybrid or electric models.
Regardless of the cause, repeated shutdowns can be a sign of a defective system that cannot be corrected through routine repairs.
What California Lemon Law Says About This Defect
California’s Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that exhibit substantial defects while still under a manufacturer’s warranty. To qualify, the defect must impair the use, safety, or value of the car, and the manufacturer must have been given a reasonable opportunity to correct it.
In the case of engine shutdowns, the safety risk alone may be enough to meet the legal threshold, especially if the vehicle has been brought in for multiple repairs without a permanent solution. Drivers who experience two or more unsuccessful repair attempts for a dangerous condition, or four or more for the same recurring problem, may be eligible for compensation under the law. Additionally, if the vehicle has spent 30 or more cumulative days in the shop, that could also qualify.
Shainfeld Law Is Here to Help You Regain Control
If your vehicle has been stalling unexpectedly, you do not have to keep guessing whether it is safe to drive. At Shainfeld Law, our Los Angeles lemon law attorneys help drivers like you understand their legal rights and take the next step toward a resolution. Whether your vehicle needs to be repurchased, replaced, or settled through a cash offer, we will fight for the best outcome at no cost to you. Our fee is paid by the manufacturer, not by you.
Contact our experienced Los Angeles lemon law attorney at Shainfeld Law, P.C., today by calling 888-609-2593 or requesting a free consultation online. If your car is shutting down at the worst possible times, it is time to take back control and get the protection you deserve.