Acura ILX Engine Is Stalling

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

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Engine Stalling Issues in an Acura ILX

When troubleshooting engine stalling issues in your Acura ILX, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the battery to ensure it has sufficient voltage, as a weak battery can lead to stalling. Next, if the check engine light is illuminated, use an OBDII scanner to retrieve any trouble codes, which can provide valuable insights into the underlying problems. After addressing these initial checks, inspect the fuel system for any blockages or leaks, as fuel delivery issues are a common cause of stalling. Additionally, examine the air intake system to confirm it is free from obstructions and functioning correctly. If these components are in good condition, turn your attention to the ignition system, checking for faulty spark plugs or ignition coils that could disrupt engine performance. Finally, if stalling persists, consider evaluating the engine timing, as improper timing can lead to significant performance issues. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve stalling problems, ensuring your Acura ILX runs smoothly.

What to Do When Your Acura ILX Engine is Stalling?

When your Acura ILX engine begins to stall, it’s essential to understand the common problems that could be causing this issue. One frequent culprit is the fuel system, which may be compromised due to a clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump, preventing adequate fuel delivery to the engine. Additionally, the air intake system can also be a source of trouble; a dirty or malfunctioning Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to stalling. Ignition system failures, such as worn spark plugs or ignition coils, can also result in misfires that cause the engine to stall unexpectedly. Furthermore, engine timing issues, particularly with the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, can lead to performance problems. It’s also wise to check the battery and its connections, as poor electrical supply can affect engine performance. Lastly, staying informed about any recalls related to your vehicle can help you address safety concerns proactively. By being aware of these common problems, you can take the necessary steps to troubleshoot and resolve stalling issues effectively, ensuring your Acura ILX runs smoothly and safely.

Why is the Engine Stalling in an Acura ILX?

When your Acura ILX experiences engine stalling, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid serious safety risks and costly repairs. Ignoring symptoms like stalling can lead to dangerous situations on the road, such as sudden loss of power while driving, which can increase the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, the underlying causes of stalling—such as fuel system malfunctions, air intake issues, or ignition system failures—can exacerbate over time, leading to more extensive damage to the engine and its components. For instance, a malfunctioning MAF sensor or clogged fuel filter not only affects performance but can also result in engine misfires or even complete failure if left unchecked. Regular maintenance and immediate diagnosis of any stalling symptoms are essential to ensure the longevity and reliability of your Acura ILX, safeguarding both your vehicle and your safety on the road.

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Acura ILX Engine Stalling: Causes & Repair Costs | RepairPal