Why does my car randomly shut off while driving? As if i just turned the key off?

1997 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE
163,000 MILES
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IOWAOUTLAW
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It has happened a few times now, and is recent. Never have had this issue before. I was driving and suddenly the car just shut off. I pulled off to the side of the road, and tried starting it again, nothing. No fire. I couldn't tell if it was lacking fuel or spark. check engine light has been on with no real driving issues, got the code reader out and it said i need a new rear o2 sensor. I bought the car with out it and its driven me all over the place till now. i take good care of my eclipse i dont beat on it.. one thing i have noticed was the idle is a little bit high sits at about 1100. one one freak event i watched the idle bounce but it hasnt done that since. Please please help me at least put me in the right direction.

Thanks!
chris
May 25, 2012 at 1:03 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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i would look at the distributor as it is a common failure.

look at the fuel pressure as well to verify the pump.

Roy
May 25, 2012 at 1:07 AM
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IOWAOUTLAW
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My 97 is run off a coil.. not so much a distributor. but thank you for the advice hopefully i can get my baby back on the road
May 25, 2012 at 9:59 AM
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ANTHONY TAYLOR
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check the crankshaft position sensor on the back passenger side of the engine.
Jul 10, 2012 at 10:36 PM
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DJCL
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
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Have you rechecked for codes since the stalling ?
Jul 10, 2012 at 11:05 PM
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