2010 Honda Civic Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2010 Honda Civic 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 2010 Honda Civic 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 2010 Honda Civic 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 2010 Honda Civic experiencing engine stalling?

When troubleshooting engine stalling in a 2010 Honda Civic, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that begins with the simplest checks before progressing to more complex issues. Start by examining the fuel system; ensure there’s enough fuel in the tank and inspect the fuel pump and filter for any blockages or malfunctions that could impede fuel delivery. Next, turn your attention to the ignition system, where worn spark plugs or damaged ignition coils may be the culprits behind the stalling. Following this, assess the air intake system by checking the air filter for clogs and inspecting for any vacuum leaks that could disrupt airflow. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes can provide critical insights into underlying problems, guiding your next steps. Additionally, verify the condition of the battery, as a weak battery can lead to stalling issues. Finally, inspect key engine sensors, such as the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, to ensure they are functioning correctly. By methodically working through these diagnostic steps, you can effectively identify and address the root cause of the stalling issue in your Honda Civic.

What are the common problems that could cause a 2010 Honda Civic engine to stall?

When your 2010 Honda Civic experiences engine stalling, it can be frustrating, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue effectively. One frequent culprit is a faulty ignition switch, which can interrupt the power supply to the engine, leading to unexpected stalls. Additionally, fuel system issues, such as a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump, can prevent the engine from receiving the necessary fuel, causing it to stall. Airflow blockages, often due to a dirty air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, can disrupt the ideal air-to-fuel ratio, further contributing to stalling. Worn-out spark plugs may also cause misfiring, resulting in engine stalling. Furthermore, malfunctioning sensors, including the crankshaft position sensor or throttle position sensor, can lead to erratic engine behavior. Lastly, electrical system problems, such as a weak battery or a faulty alternator, can compromise engine performance. By systematically checking these areas, you can identify and potentially resolve the stalling issue in your Honda Civic, making it a rewarding DIY project.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2010 Honda Civic?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2010 Honda Civic is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls, drivers can experience a sudden loss of power steering and braking, which can severely impair vehicle control and increase the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, if left unaddressed, the stalling can lead to more severe mechanical failures, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. For DIY enthusiasts, understanding the critical nature of this issue is essential; regular maintenance and prompt repairs not only enhance the vehicle's reliability but also ensure a safer driving experience. Therefore, if you notice any signs of stalling, it is crucial to take action immediately to safeguard both your vehicle and your safety on the road.

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2010 Honda Civic Engine Stalling: Causes & Repair Costs