2008 Mercury Milan Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2008 Mercury Milan 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 2008 Mercury Milan 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 2008 Mercury Milan 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 2008 Mercury Milan's engine is stalling?

When faced with a stalling engine in your 2008 Mercury Milan, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the root cause effectively. Start by checking the check engine light; if illuminated, it can provide crucial diagnostic codes that point to specific issues. Next, inspect for vacuum leaks, as these are common culprits for rough idling and stalling. Look closely at the vacuum hoses and connections for any signs of wear or damage. Following this, examine the ignition system, ensuring that components like ignition coils are functioning correctly, as faults here can lead to stalling. Don’t overlook the fuel system; check for clogs in the fuel filter or issues with the fuel pump that could disrupt fuel delivery. Additionally, assess the air intake system by inspecting the air filter and throttle body for any obstructions or malfunctions. Finally, review the throttle control sensor, as its proper operation is vital for maintaining engine performance. By methodically following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address the stalling issue in your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2008 Mercury Milan?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2008 Mercury Milan, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One prevalent issue is the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, which can malfunction and disrupt engine performance. Additionally, rough idling can indicate underlying problems, often linked to throttle control sensor failures or vacuum leaks that affect air intake. Ignition coil issues may also lead to misfires, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly. Fuel injector problems can further exacerbate these symptoms by failing to deliver the necessary fuel to the engine. It's also worth noting that some drivers have reported stalling at high speeds, often accompanied by warning lights such as the check engine and battery indicators. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the vehicle's performance and prevent further complications.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2008 Mercury Milan?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2008 Mercury Milan is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls unexpectedly while driving, it can lead to a sudden loss of power, making it difficult to control the vehicle and increasing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, stalling is often a symptom of deeper mechanical problems, such as issues with the fuel system, air intake, or ignition components. If these underlying issues are not resolved promptly, they can escalate into more severe and costly repairs, potentially leaving you stranded or causing a complete breakdown. Additionally, a malfunctioning ignition switch can prevent the vehicle from starting altogether, compounding the inconvenience and risk. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of engine stalling immediately to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle on the road. Ignoring these symptoms not only jeopardizes your safety but can also lead to more extensive damage, making timely intervention essential.

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2008 Mercury Milan Engine Stalling: Causes & Repairs