2020 Honda Civic Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2020 Honda Civic 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 2020 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 2020 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 2020 Honda Civic experiencing engine stalling?

When faced with engine stalling in a 2020 Honda Civic, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking for any warning lights on the dashboard, particularly the Check Engine Light, as this can offer immediate insights into potential issues. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer; these codes are invaluable for pinpointing specific problems. Following this, inspect the fuel system, including the fuel pump and filter, to ensure that fuel delivery is adequate. It's also crucial to examine the ignition system components, such as spark plugs and ignition coils, to confirm they are functioning correctly. Additionally, evaluate the air intake system for any obstructions that could hinder airflow. Don't overlook the battery and charging system, as they must provide sufficient power for engine operation. Lastly, check for any vacuum leaks that could disrupt the air-fuel mixture. By methodically following these steps, you can gather critical information to diagnose and address the stalling issue effectively.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2020 Honda Civic?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a 2020 Honda Civic, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at fault. One of the primary culprits is the fuel pump, which, if malfunctioning, can disrupt fuel delivery and cause the engine to stall. Additionally, issues within the ignition system, such as worn spark plugs or a failing ignition coil, can lead to misfires and stalling. Another critical component to inspect is the airflow sensor; a malfunction here can throw off the air-fuel mixture, resulting in performance issues. Clogged or dirty fuel injectors can also impede fuel flow, contributing to stalling. Furthermore, a faulty mass airflow sensor can miscalculate the necessary air intake, leading to an improper air-fuel ratio. Lastly, the throttle body should not be overlooked, as carbon buildup or sensor failures can significantly affect engine responsiveness. Regular maintenance and timely inspections of these components can help prevent stalling and ensure your Honda Civic runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2020 Honda Civic?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2020 Honda Civic is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. Stalling can occur unexpectedly, particularly while driving, which may lead to a loss of control and increase the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, neglecting this problem can result in more severe damage to the engine and other vital components, leading to costly repairs down the line. Regular maintenance and immediate attention to any engine-related symptoms are essential for preserving the vehicle's performance and reliability. Therefore, if you experience engine stalling, it is crucial to diagnose and resolve the issue promptly to ensure both your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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