Car shut off while driving

CALVIN LINN

MEMBER
1999 MERCURY TRACER
1.6L
2WD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

Going down the road at around 50 mph had the radio on and the car just shut off. The electrical was still working, radio on, lights on, heater blowing but the engine was off. Got it stopped and it would not start. Tried to jump it and still nothing. It clicks over when you turn the key and then sounds like it is whining.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,320 POSTS

Hi,

It sounds like the timing belt broke. If the starter is turning the engine and it sounds like it is spinning really fast due to no compression, it will basically sound like a whining.

Now, if this is a single overhead cam engine, I believe it is what is called an interference engine. The duel overhead cam isn't. If it is an interference engine, there is a good chance internal damaged has occurred.

If possible, record the sound you hear when the starter engages and upload it for me to hear. I can usually tell right away if it is the belt.

I also need you to confirm the engine size. The only one I am showing for this year make and model is a 2.0L. I am basing the aforementioned interference information of Ford's 1.6. If it is the 2.0L, you should be safe.

If you can, remove the timing belt cover from the front of the engine. See pic 1. The belt is behind it. (See pic 2 you will see if it is broken. If it isn't broken, it may have jumped time due to wear or tension. I will need to hear it.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions. Also, if you can, record it and upload it so I can hear it.

Take care,
Joe

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