Sudden Engine Stop - scary

[JohnnyS]

I am a bit scared.
I have a 2001 Sport Trac.
Over the last 1 year, I have encountered 3 sudden engine stalls...WHILE I was moving.
In all three instances, I wasn't moving fast (perhaps less than 10miles per hour), and going slightly uphill.
All of sudden, the engine dies!

I would stop, then put on park, restart. the engine restarted no problem each time.

I replaced the fuel filter recently. I hope that's the problem.
But what sccares me is what happens if this happens when i am going fast...

Anyone know?

Please. I would be heavily indebted for your insights.

 

[DBray6]

You would simply coast. Your steering and brakes will be hard but if you just shift up into neutral and restart you should have no problems. I have had a few old cars that would stall whenever. You don't have to worry about sudden stops.

 

[JDraper]

Is your vehicle stock or modified (aftermarket air intake)?

Any recent engine bay work? If so, a vacuum line might be off and that could cause stalling.

Last time the air filter was changed?

 

[JohnnyS]

No, none of those...
This happens just occasionally. I am just scared that this might happen when I am driving and the road is near a cliff. ..
I do notice that the security alarm (the auto lock) works on and off--perhaps indicating a circuit problem? Can electrical problem be related to engine dying while driving?

 

[JDraper]

Can electrical problem be related to engine dying while driving?

Absolutely.

 

[Clusterpup]

If your engine cuts out while your driving its no big deal. Your steering will be a little tight and you will have to mash on the brakes to make them work but its no big deal.