Free Car Repair Advice by Certified ASE Technicians
Troubleshooting
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Why Does My Engine Stall
After the Battery was Replaced?
Why Does My Engine Stall or Idle Too High After The Battery Was Dead Or Replaced?
Car Repair Guide
Engine idle is necessary for proper vehicle operation; it allows the engine
to operate at the lowest RPM level possible without your foot on the gas
pedal. At idle, your engine produces the least amount of emissions than in any
other time it is operation. Even when your key is in the off position the
vehicle still utilizes electrical power from the battery. The amount of
electrical power used is a very small amount; the
battery can
sustain this usage for many weeks. But, when electrical power is completely
removed from the system the natural memory is erased. This natural memory is a
result of an accumulative data that has been processed and learned by the ECM/PCM. One of the
natural memory events is the engine idle speed. When the car battery is dead or
replaced this natural
engine idle speed is lost. After the battery is replaced
or charged the engine idle will need to re-learn itself, this is normal. In some instances this
re-learn procedure is un-noticeable while others are quite noticeable. During
the idle-relearn period the engine will stall when in idle mode,
but it is not unheard of too idle to high also. If you have replaced or charged
your car battery and now the engine is
stalling at idle, or
idling to high
follow the idle relearn guide below.
READ COMPLETELY BEFORE BEGINNING!
- Step 1 - Engine idle low or stall:
Once the new
battery is
installed or charged start the engine.
When the engine try's to stall hold your foot on the
gas pedal just a little to aid the idle speed. You will need to
continue doing this until the engine is warm. When the engine is at
operating temperature the basic engine idle setting will engage, the engine
should re-gain idle properties. If the engine is still not responding a
short drive is sometimes required, both feet will be used to perform this
procedure. Put one foot on the throttle and the other on the brake pedal.
Continue this until basic engine idle is achieved
- Step 2 - Engine idle to high: Once the
new battery is installed or charged start the engine. Start the engine and
allow to warm up to operating temperature. As the engine warms the engine idle should return to normal.
If the engine does not return to idle a short drive will be needed. (Note:
if engine idle is extreme do not attempt this step). Drive the car until
normal engine speed is engaged.
WARNING! Always have the vehicle under inspection on
level ground, in park with the emergency brake on. Always wear protective
eyewear, gloves and necessary clothing before inspection or work begins. Never
crank an engine over when anyone is near the battery or engine. Always have an
operational fire extinguisher close by, obey all first aid instructions in the
event of an accident. Never stand in front or behind a vehicle when cranked over
or running. When engine is cranked over keep hands and clothing free from
rotating components.
Troubleshooting
/
Why Does My Engine Stall
After the Battery was Replaced?
Additional Resources
Check Manufacturer Specific Engine
Stalls at Idle Questions and Answers
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