94' Legacy shuts down and starts back up

[Don]

The car runs like a sewing machine but it will shut down at any given time. It will start back up. Replaced the fuel filter and pump to no avail. Can anyone help!

[wtdash]

Welcome to LC BBS.

Sounds just like when my MAF- Mass air flow - sensor failed. You can try cleaning it using low pressure spray w/the MAF-specific cleaner.
If that doesn't help, and yours is a non-turbo/NA you can use any of the GREEN label sensors labeled JECS or AUTECS. LIke this:


They're worth getting a used one @ the junk/salvage yard for $25-50 - always had good luck w/used.. New are $300+.

This were used on the Impreza, Legacy and Forester from early 90's to late 90's depending on model - on both 2.2 and 2.5.

GL,
Td

[Don]

The car runs like a sewing machine but it will shut down at any given time. It will start back up. Replaced the fuel filter and pump to no avail. Can anyone help!

Thanks I'll try that. I've already replaced the fuel filter and pump.

[Don]

I check out the MAF and it looks clean as well as the air filter. Is there a way to test the sensor?

[wtdash]

I check out the MAF and it looks clean as well as the air filter.

Yeah, mine did too...esp. after I cleaned it.

But the next time I drove it the car did the same thing 'til I replaced it.

Testing info?
Try this Thread on here.

Td

[Don]

Did your car run and idle properly and just shut off while driving?

[Don]

My car will run good and then shut down at any given time. When it does it repeatedly then it is hard to get it to stay running. Are these the symptoms of your problem?

[wtdash]

My car would randomly die, esp. when I would come to a stop. It would start right up and run for awhile b4 dying again. I 'might' have gotten a CEL but can't remember for sure.

Td

[Don]

Thanks for the info Td

[dscoobydoo]

Could be a possible grounding issue.

[Don]

Thanks for the info Td

Hey Td, I cleaned the sensor with carb cleaner. Put it back together, let it idle for 15 min then took off and drove about 10 mi. It ran good the whole time. Thanks a lot!!
DK

[Legacy777]

I too had a similar issue that turned out to be the MAF sensor. It was an intermittant issue and testing really didn't show up anything. I just ended up replacing it. So if cleaning doesn't fix it, try replacing the MAF.

[wtdash]

Thanks for the info Td

Hey Td, I cleaned the sensor with carb cleaner. Put it back together, let it idle for 15 min then took off and drove about 10 mi. It ran good the whole time. Thanks a lot!!
DK

Good deal...probably get better MPG, too.

Td

[cj91legss]

For future reference, don't use carb cleaner. Carb and brake parts cleaner leave a residue on objects. MAF sensor cleaner is designed not to leave a residue, therefor getting the sensor completely clean.