Car goes into limp mode and dies after 4000 RPMs... any ideas?

Seeking Advice Forum
1

Hi all, my car went into limp mode and died while my daughter was driving after passing another car. It has 65,000 miles and has never had issues before. After sitting for a while, the car starts back up and runs normally.

I tested it in my driveway by revving it above 4000 RPMs, and the same thing happened—it stumbled, went into limp mode, and died. No warning lights came on until after the engine died, and then the check engine, oil, and battery lights appeared. The car was last serviced in July for an oil change and tire rotation. Does anyone have any idea what might be causing this?

2

It could be an issue with the electronic throttle control system. The throttle body or accelerator pedal position sensor might be acting up.

3

Jeremybeans said:
It could be an issue with the electronic throttle control system. The throttle body or accelerator pedal position sensor might be acting up.

Thanks! I’ll have those checked out when I take it in for diagnostics.

4

Another possibility is the fuel delivery system. A failing fuel pump or a signal issue to the fuel injectors could cause this.

5

oliviamartin said:
Another possibility is the fuel delivery system. A failing fuel pump or a signal issue to the fuel injectors could cause this.

That makes sense. I’ll add it to the list of things to check. Thanks for the input!

6

You should scan for fault codes, even if the check engine light isn’t on. Sometimes codes are stored without triggering the light.

7

Brad said:
You should scan for fault codes, even if the check engine light isn’t on. Sometimes codes are stored without triggering the light.

Good to know. I’ll get the car scanned for codes as soon as possible.

8

When it dies, does it feel like the engine stumbles first, or does it cut out suddenly like someone turned off the ignition?

9

valentinholes said:
When it dies, does it feel like the engine stumbles first, or does it cut out suddenly like someone turned off the ignition?

It stumbles first, then dies. After sitting for a while, it starts back up without a problem.

10

@petrabrinkman
That sounds more like a fuel delivery issue than an ignition problem. Definitely get the fuel pressure tested.

11

Glad you’re getting it checked out. Make sure the mechanic tests both the fuel pressure and injector pulse signal. It’ll help narrow down the issue.

12

KingKong said:
Glad you’re getting it checked out. Make sure the mechanic tests both the fuel pressure and injector pulse signal. It’ll help narrow down the issue.

Thanks for the advice! I’ll mention that to the mechanic.