Why does engine shut off?

[AcesHigh74]

My wife just called me from the other side of the state. She said the 2004 Explorer we just bought shut off going down the highway. It has 45000 miles on a 4.0 V6. She said the check engine light came on. Without giving you any codes because it's not here, anyone have any similar problem? She was able to pull over and restart and is now driving again.

 

[gijoecam]

It could be a lot of different things, or it could be nothing. Without the code, it's a little tough to even get started checking things.

It's definately not common or normal. It could be as simple as a loose connection on something, or a bad sensor, or something serious like bad fuel injectors or an ignition module of some sort that took a dive.

The code will help reveal some of the secrets. Have her stop by any Auto Zone in the area and get the specific codes pulled. They'll be a Pxxxx code. Don't let the morons at auto zone tell her it's a bad this-that-or the other, just get the DTC's that it shows and report back here.

We're always happy to help!

-Joe

 

[piperRonnie]

My '02 did a similar thing, it was the alternator.

 

[AcesHigh74]

Turns out she went through a massive thunderstorm and I think the water got into something. No problem since. She didn't tell me it rained! Thanks for the replies