Recently my Jeep stalls out when either just setting off to go somewhere or if in a idle position. She is a Cherokee Grand 1997 model and has done a lot of miles (194,000). It is stalling sporadically, mainly when it is first turned on, but it can happen even after going for dinner and it might have been stationary only a few hours (it is hard to predict). Once the car works, she can drive miles without a problem once it gets going. My battery in fine, everything else works, but the car just suddenly cuts out. I would try and turn the engine on again and usually it starts back no problem, but more and more times now, it has been turning over again and again with no start up at all. I try and add gas to see if that helps, but no luck. Eventually it works, but it is scary (it happened today in the middle of traffic on a major road).
One other thing that has only happened twice but is very concerning is that the steering wheel suddenly doesn’t turn, or move, or anything. It locks. I would have to switch off the engine and start up again then it is fine. This too happens when I am setting off or moving very slowly (thank goodness).
I took it to the shop and they gave me a new crankshaft position sensor, but it clearly wasn’t what it needed because it stalled worse than ever today. It is getting more often and worse each time. What can you suggest?
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Thank you for your helpful response. I have had this car two and a half years now and I have alway had regular oil changes done, but never a tune-up. This is my first car and if I am honest, I am not 100% sure of what I always have to get done. I always get low priced fuel and once in a while get better gas, but only if the cheap fuel isn’t nearby. I am not sure what engine I have (I am a novice aren’t I?).
Nothing shows up on my dashboard. No lights or check engine illumination.
I have been told before that I should get some fuel injection cleaner, but I don’t know what to buy or where to put it. Now I know that I guess.
I don’t mean to sound like a complete “girl” but I truly don’t know what to do and my car is my baby. I always have thought I was taking good care of her.