2017 Nissan Sentra Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2017 Nissan Sentra 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 2017 Nissan Sentra 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 2017 Nissan Sentra 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 2017 Nissan Sentra's engine is stalling?

When troubleshooting engine stalling issues in a 2017 Nissan Sentra, it's important to follow a structured diagnostic approach to efficiently identify the root cause. Begin by utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes, as these can provide critical insights into the vehicle's performance issues. After gathering this information, inspect the fuel system, focusing on the fuel pump, filter, and injectors to ensure they are delivering clean fuel to the engine. Next, turn your attention to the ignition system; faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can lead to stalling, so verify their condition. Additionally, assess the air intake system by checking the air filter for blockages that could hinder airflow. It's also vital to examine the engine sensors, such as the mass airflow and throttle position sensors, since any malfunction here can disrupt engine operation. Finally, inspect for vacuum leaks in the hoses and lines, as these can significantly impact the air-fuel mixture necessary for proper combustion. By systematically addressing these diagnostic steps, you can effectively pinpoint and resolve the stalling issues in your Nissan Sentra.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2017 Nissan Sentra?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2017 Nissan Sentra, it's essential to understand the common problems that may 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 malfunctioning fuel injectors can hinder proper fuel delivery, exacerbating the issue. The ignition system also plays a critical role; faulty spark plugs or a failing ignition coil can prevent the engine from firing correctly, resulting in stalling. Another area to investigate is the fuel pump; if it's not supplying adequate fuel, the engine may struggle to maintain operation. Vacuum leaks can further complicate matters by altering the air-fuel ratio, while a malfunctioning throttle position sensor can directly impact engine performance. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve stalling issues, ensuring their Sentra runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the stalling engine in a 2017 Nissan Sentra?

When faced with a stalling engine in a 2017 Nissan Sentra, the urgency to address the issue cannot be overstated. A stalling engine often signals underlying problems that, if ignored, can escalate into more severe mechanical failures, leading to costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s crucial to recognize that stalling can stem from various sources, including fuel system malfunctions, ignition failures, or even engine mechanical issues. Delaying repairs not only increases the risk of inconvenient breakdowns but also poses significant safety hazards, especially if the engine stalls while navigating busy roads or highways. By taking prompt action to diagnose and resolve the issue, you can prevent further complications and ensure the vehicle remains reliable and safe. Regular maintenance and timely interventions are key to preserving the performance of your Sentra, making it essential to investigate any stalling symptoms as soon as they arise.

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