I recently replaced my car’s battery, thinking it would solve some starting issues I was having. But now I’m facing a new problem – my engine keeps stalling, especially when I slow down or stop. It’s frustrating and a bit scary, especially in traffic. I did some research to understand what might be causing this and what I need to do to fix it.
Symptoms of a car stalling after a battery change
The main symptoms I’ve noticed with my car since changing the battery are:
- Engine stalls when coming to a stop or slowing down;
- Rough idling;
- Occasional stalling at intersections or traffic lights;
- Fluctuating RPMs at low speeds.
What causes a car to stall after replacing the battery?
Modern cars heavily rely on computers and electronic control units. These components require a steady voltage to function properly and retain learned settings in their memory.
When you disconnect the battery to replace it, these settings can be lost, causing the engine to revert to default values that aren’t optimal for your car’s current condition.
Over time, the engine computer learns and compensates for wear and tear. Losing these learned settings can cause problems like rough idling, stalling, and poor performance until the computer relearns them.
How to fix a car that stalls after a battery replacement
To get your car running smoothly again, the engine computer needs to relearn its optimal settings. Here’s what you can try:
- Drive the car for at least 15-20 minutes to let the computer relearn and adapt. You might need to keep the engine RPMs up initially to prevent stalling.
- Have a mechanic check and clean the throttle body and idle air control valve. Carbon buildup in these components can cause stalling issues that the computer can’t compensate for.
- Use a “memory saver” device next time you change your battery to maintain power to the computers and prevent memory loss.
If the problem persists, there could be other underlying issues like a failing alternator, clogged fuel filter, or faulty sensors that need to be diagnosed and repaired.
The cost of fixing a car that stalls after a battery change in New Zealand
The cost will depend on the specific cause of the stalling issue. A simple throttle body cleaning might cost around $150-$250, while more complex repairs like replacing sensors or the alternator can range from $400 to over $1,000.
Why choose My Auto Shop for car stalling issues?
When my car started stalling, I turned to My Auto Shop for help. Their mobile mechanics came right to my workplace, which was incredibly convenient. They diagnosed the problem quickly and gave me upfront, transparent pricing before starting any work.
What I appreciate most about My Auto Shop is their commitment to customer service. They took the time to explain what was causing the stalling and what repairs were necessary. Plus, their work is backed by a 6-month/10,000km warranty for added peace of mind.
If you’re dealing with a car that’s stalling after a battery change or any other issue, I highly recommend booking with My Auto Shop. Their skilled mechanics and excellent service make them the best choice for keeping your vehicle running reliably.