1999 Ford Explorer Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 1999 Ford Explorer and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 1999 Ford Explorer 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 1999 Ford Explorer 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 for a stalling engine in a 1999 Ford Explorer?

When faced with a stalling engine in your 1999 Ford Explorer, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking the fuel system; ensure that there is enough fuel in the tank and inspect the fuel filter for any clogs that could impede fuel flow. Next, turn your attention to the ignition system, where worn spark plugs or damaged ignition coils can lead to performance issues. Following this, examine the air intake system by checking the air filter for dirt and ensuring the throttle body is clear of obstructions. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can provide valuable insights by revealing any error codes that may indicate specific problems. Additionally, inspect vacuum hoses for leaks, as these can significantly affect engine performance. Finally, verify the functionality of the idle air control valve to ensure it maintains the correct idle speed. By methodically working through these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the stalling issue, empowering you to take control of your vehicle's performance.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 1999 Ford Explorer?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 1999 Ford Explorer, it's crucial to understand the various common problems that may be at play. A primary concern is often a faulty fuel pump, which can lead to inadequate fuel delivery, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly. Additionally, dirty or clogged fuel injectors can impede the proper flow of fuel, resulting in similar stalling symptoms. The ignition system is another vital area to examine; issues such as a malfunctioning ignition coil or worn spark plugs can lead to intermittent stalling. Furthermore, a malfunctioning airflow sensor can disrupt the necessary air-fuel mixture for optimal engine performance. Vacuum leaks can complicate the situation by affecting the air-fuel ratio, while a faulty mass airflow sensor can significantly hinder engine operation. Lastly, a dirty or malfunctioning throttle body, along with potential issues related to the EGR valve, can also contribute to stalling. By methodically addressing these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and resolve engine stalling issues in their Ford Explorer, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 1999 Ford Explorer?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 1999 Ford Explorer is of utmost urgency due to the serious safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls unexpectedly, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, which is particularly dangerous in high-traffic situations or at high speeds, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this problem can exacerbate existing mechanical or electrical issues, potentially resulting in more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Stalling may indicate deeper underlying problems that require professional diagnosis and repair to ensure the vehicle operates safely and reliably. Therefore, it is crucial for owners to prioritize resolving engine stalling issues promptly to safeguard both their safety and the longevity of their vehicle.

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