2016 Nissan Altima Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2016 Nissan Altima and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2016 Nissan Altima 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 2016 Nissan Altima 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 issue in a 2016 Nissan Altima?

When faced with a stalling issue in your 2016 Nissan Altima, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach to effectively identify the root cause. Start by checking the fuel system; ensure that your fuel tank has enough gas and that the fuel pump is operational. A clogged fuel filter can also impede fuel flow, so inspect it for any blockages. Next, examine the battery, as a weak or corroded battery can lead to stalling. Look for corrosion on the terminals and verify that the battery is holding a charge. Moving on, inspect the spark plugs; worn or fouled plugs can disrupt engine performance, so check their condition and replace them if necessary. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can provide valuable insights by revealing any error codes stored in the vehicle's computer, which can guide your troubleshooting efforts. Additionally, assess the air intake system by checking the air filter for dirt and ensuring there are no vacuum leaks that could affect engine airflow. Finally, test the ignition system components, including the ignition coils and module, as faulty parts here can also contribute to stalling. By following these steps in order, you can systematically diagnose and address the stalling issue, potentially saving time and money on repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2016 Nissan Altima?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2016 Nissan Altima, it's essential to understand the common problems that could be at play. One frequent culprit is a faulty mass airflow sensor, which can disrupt the delicate balance of air and fuel entering the engine, leading to stalling. Additionally, dirty or clogged fuel injectors can hinder fuel delivery, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly. Another potential issue is a bad ignition coil, which may result in misfires that can ultimately lead to engine shutdown. Problems with the fuel pump, such as low pressure or a failing unit, can also contribute to stalling, as can vacuum leaks that disrupt the air intake. Lastly, a malfunctioning throttle position sensor can prevent the engine from maintaining a stable idle speed, further exacerbating stalling issues. By diagnosing these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take the necessary steps to address and resolve engine stalling in their Altima, ensuring a smoother and more reliable driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the stalling engine issue in a 2016 Nissan Altima?

When faced with a stalling engine in a 2016 Nissan Altima, the urgency to address the issue cannot be overstated. A stalling engine poses significant safety risks, as it can lead to sudden power loss while driving, potentially resulting in dangerous situations, especially in high-traffic areas or during critical maneuvers. Moreover, delaying repairs can exacerbate the problem, leading to more severe mechanical failures that may require costly repairs. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your vehicle's reliability, and ignoring warning signs can compromise not only the performance of your Altima but also your safety on the road. For those considering a DIY approach, it is crucial to recognize that while some issues may seem minor, they can quickly escalate if not handled promptly. Therefore, it is advisable to diagnose the problem as soon as possible and, if necessary, consult a qualified mechanic to ensure that the underlying cause is effectively addressed, safeguarding both your vehicle and your well-being.

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