2021 Acura ILX Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2021 Acura ILX and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 Acura ILX engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2021 Acura ILX engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What steps should I take to diagnose the stalling issue in my 2021 Acura ILX?

To effectively diagnose the stalling issue in your 2021 Acura ILX, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by checking if the check engine light is illuminated; if it is, using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes can provide immediate insights into potential problems. Next, inspect the fuel system, including the fuel pump, filter, and injectors, as any malfunction here can lead to stalling. Following this, examine the air intake system for clogs or leaks that may hinder engine performance. It's also crucial to test the battery, as a weak battery can contribute to stalling issues. Don’t overlook the spark plugs; worn or faulty plugs can disrupt engine operation, so inspect and replace them if necessary. Additionally, check the functionality of critical sensors like the mass airflow and oxygen sensors, as failures in these components can lead to stalling. Lastly, assess the ignition system for any faults, such as a defective ignition coil, and consider performing a compression test to evaluate the overall health of the engine. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can identify and address the root cause of the stalling issue in your Acura ILX effectively.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2021 Acura ILX?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a 2021 Acura ILX, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting performance. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where issues such as a clogged fuel filter or a malfunctioning fuel pump can disrupt the flow of fuel to the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, the ignition system plays a crucial role; failing components like ignition coils or worn spark plugs can prevent the engine from firing correctly. Airflow is another critical factor; a dirty air filter or a faulty mass airflow sensor can restrict the air needed for combustion, resulting in stalling. Furthermore, sensor failures, particularly with the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors, can send incorrect signals to the engine control unit, causing performance issues. Lastly, electrical problems, including a weak battery or a defective alternator, can lead to unexpected engine shutdowns. By systematically checking these areas, DIYers can effectively troubleshoot and resolve stalling issues, ensuring their Acura ILX runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2021 Acura ILX?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2021 Acura ILX is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. An unexpected stall can lead to a loss of control while driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this problem can result in more severe damage to the engine and other critical components, which may lead to costly repairs down the line. By taking immediate action, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also enhance your safety on the road. Timely intervention can prevent further complications, ensuring that your Acura ILX remains reliable and efficient. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the resolution of any stalling issues to maintain the overall integrity and functionality of your vehicle.

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