Why engine cuts off

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When coming to a stop at red lights and stop engine cuts off tries to do sometimes while driving replaced the throttle body and now mechanic says it's the distributor I'm so confused please help when the engine is cold the car drives fine

dannett3 in Norcross GA

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Nov 21, 2016

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3 Replies

Popular Answer
casey40510on Nov 21, 2016

Well, I'm sorry to say, but the vehicles presence is necessary for testing. With situations like this, a technician really needs live data from the vehicle as the problem is reproduced. If you don't trust your mechanic, we have several in your area that are certified and trusted. They can give you a proper diagnosis, and an honest estimate for repair. I'll paste the link below. http://repairpal.com/nissan-within-10-miles-of-norcross-georgia-30093

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pushrodon Nov 21, 2016

The 3.3L engine distributors are multi component configuration and proper testing can be very difficult or even impossible! .. From personal experience I will agree with the mechanic on this one as the distributors are very problematic and replacement is the best route to take here .. The remans are junk at best .. A quality new part will ensure reliable vehicle operation .. What I have witnessed on these vehicles with the 3.3L is the engine starts and runs great when it is COLD .. The warmer it gets the worse it runs! .. One can raise the hood and observe engine operation from COLD start through the warm up process and can actually see the engine start running rough.. IF you have these symptoms then the distributor 'assembly' is suspect... NAPA seems to have the most reliable replacement distributor I have found... Avoid the discount parts stores for this part! . From just the symptoms you've posted here, one must assume your vehicle does indeed have the V/6 instead of the 4 cyl... Good luck with the repair!

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pushrodon Nov 22, 2016

Just thought I'd give this a try - Googled > Nissan 3.3 distributor problems and here are just 'some' results: .. This is just a couple of the many replies to just one of the many forums: "I was seeing the same problems on my 2000 Xterra - the hotter the engine got - the worse it would run. No codes. No difference with new plugs. Replaced the Distributor and its running like it a charm! THANKS!! You guys ROCK!!" [Brian] "I think the problem is solved.....New distributor and its back to running fine. .. Thanks for all the help and suggestions. It was all very helpful in diagnosing the problem." [Bulzeye] The answers I have posted on this site, over the years, are ALL based on what is now 44 years of experience in the auto repair business and actual repairs that have been proven by 'personal' in field hands-on repairs .. Not just something I have read somewhere or overhead before! .. To all concerned ... GOOD LUCK TO YA!

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devil_775on Nov 22, 2016

Kiss. Keep it simple s. The vehicle tries to die when brake is applied. This could be indicative of a vacuum leak also. Take wd40, start fluid, or propane torch cylinder, propane is the safest and best choice. Go along intake man gasket, head gasket, all vacuum hoses etc the propane cyl on low and not ignited, or lit. When you pass over an area that has the vacuum leak, it will suck propane and engine will smooth out. You may have to have someone put foot on brake to re enact the stopping, while vehicle is in drive. Set e brake, choc wheels and don't put yourself in apinch point where vehicle can run you over or crush you. Stand on side reaching into the engine compartment, not in front where you can be run over. This is a trick used by experienced mechanics when in an environment that is not controlled(like a shop). Be careful, and good luck.

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