1996 Dodge Stealth Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 1996 Dodge Stealth 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 1996 Dodge Stealth 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 1996 Dodge Stealth 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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 1996 Dodge Stealth engine is stalling?

When faced with a stalling engine in a 1996 Dodge Stealth, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by examining the fuel system, as issues with the fuel pump, filter, or injectors can significantly impact engine performance. Next, turn your attention to the ignition system; ensuring that spark plugs, ignition coils, and wires are in good condition is crucial for proper combustion. Don't overlook the air intake system; a clogged air filter or intake manifold can restrict airflow, leading to stalling. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for diagnostic trouble codes can provide insights into any electronic issues affecting the engine. Finally, inspect the engine sensors, such as the mass airflow and throttle position sensors, to confirm they are functioning correctly and relaying accurate information to the engine control module. By following this structured approach, you can systematically eliminate potential problems and restore your Dodge Stealth's performance.

What are the common problems that could cause a 1996 Dodge Stealth engine to stall?

When troubleshooting a stalling engine in a 1996 Dodge Stealth, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. Start by examining the fuel system, as issues like a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump can disrupt the flow of fuel to the engine, leading to stalling. Next, inspect the ignition system; components such as the ignition coil, spark plugs, and distributor cap can wear out over time, causing misfires and stalling. Additionally, airflow problems, often due to a dirty air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, can prevent the engine from receiving the correct air-fuel mixture. Don't overlook the potential for vacuum leaks, which can create an imbalance in the air-fuel ratio, further contributing to stalling. Electrical issues, including a weak battery or failing alternator, can also play a significant role in engine performance. Lastly, malfunctioning sensors, particularly the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, can lead to erratic engine behavior. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the stalling issue in your Dodge Stealth.

How urgent is it to address the stalling issue in a 1996 Dodge Stealth?

Addressing the stalling issue in a 1996 Dodge Stealth is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. When a vehicle stalls unexpectedly, especially while driving, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, increasing the likelihood of accidents, particularly in high-traffic situations or at high speeds. Moreover, neglecting this problem can exacerbate existing issues, potentially resulting in more severe engine damage or failure of other critical components, which could lead to significantly higher repair costs down the line. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to such symptoms are essential not only for the vehicle's reliability but also for the safety of its occupants and others on the road. Therefore, it is crucial to have a qualified mechanic diagnose and address the stalling issue as soon as possible to ensure the vehicle remains safe and operational.

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