2019 Ford Explorer Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2019 Ford Explorer 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 2019 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 2019 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.

The most likely symptom of a faulty fuel temperature sensor is a check engine light. When the sensor goes bad, the Engine Control Module signals the driver that there is a problem by turning on the dash light. Poor fuel economy might also be noticed. In some cases, a failing fuel temperature sensor could lead to hard starting of the engine or an engine misfire and poor performance.

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 2019 Ford Explorer?

When faced with a stalling engine in your 2019 Ford Explorer, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking the fuel system; ensure that your fuel tank has enough gas and inspect the fuel filter for any clogs that could impede fuel flow. Next, turn your attention to the air intake system, where a dirty air filter or obstructions can significantly affect engine performance. Following this, examine the ignition system by inspecting the spark plugs and ignition coils for any signs of wear or malfunction. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can provide valuable insights by revealing any error codes stored in the vehicle's computer, guiding you toward specific issues. Additionally, check for vacuum leaks by inspecting hoses for cracks or leaks that may disrupt engine performance. Lastly, verify the health of your battery, as a weak battery can contribute to stalling problems. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the stalling issue in your Ford Explorer, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2019 Ford Explorer?

When diagnosing engine stalling issues in a 2019 Ford Explorer, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is fuel pump issues, which may arise from a faulty fuel pump relay or a clogged fuel filter, both of which can disrupt fuel delivery to the engine. Additionally, malfunctions in the ignition system, such as failing ignition coils or worn spark plugs, can lead to incomplete combustion, resulting in stalling. Another critical factor is the airflow sensor; if this component is malfunctioning, it can throw off the air-fuel mixture, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly. Furthermore, a dirty or faulty throttle body can impede proper air intake, exacerbating stalling issues. Lastly, problems with the Engine Control Module (ECM), whether due to software glitches or electrical faults, can also contribute to engine stalling. By understanding these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can better troubleshoot and address potential issues, ensuring smoother operation of their Ford Explorer.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2019 Ford Explorer?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2019 Ford Explorer is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls, particularly while driving at high speeds or navigating busy intersections, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, leading to potentially dangerous situations. Moreover, neglecting this problem can result in unexpected breakdowns, leaving you stranded and facing expensive repair bills that could have been avoided with timely action. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to engine performance not only enhance the vehicle's reliability but also prevent more severe damage over time. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize the resolution of engine stalling issues to ensure your safety, minimize repair costs, and maintain the overall health of your Ford Explorer.

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