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2019 Charger SXT - Intermittent Hard Starts & Stalling When Warm

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:15 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Dodge Charger SXT

I'm reaching out about a puzzling issue with my 2019 Dodge Charger SXT. For the past month or so, I've been experiencing intermittent hard starts, especially after the car has been driven and then sits for a short period (like 15-30 minutes). It cranks for longer than usual before finally sputtering to life. Even more concerning, it's stalled on me twice at a stop light after being fully warmed up.

There's no check engine light on, which is making this hard to diagnose. When it's running, it seems mostly fine, though I sometimes feel a slight hesitation under acceleration. I've tried using different gas stations, but the problem persists. The car has about 60,000 miles on it.

Could this be a fuel pump going out, or maybe something with the fuel pressure regulator? I'm trying to avoid just guessing and replacing expensive parts. Any advice on what to look into first for my 2019 Charger?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:15 AM

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Intermittent hard starts and stalling, especially when the engine is warm, are classic symptoms of a problem within the fuel delivery system or ignition system. While the lack of a Check Engine Light (CEL) can be frustrating, it doesn't mean there isn't a fault developing. Your 2019 Dodge Charger SXT relies on precise fuel pressure and delivery.

Here are the most common culprits for these symptoms:

  1. Failing Fuel Pump: A fuel pump that's starting to fail can struggle to maintain consistent pressure, especially after heat soak. This leads to longer cranking times and can cause stalling if pressure drops too low.
    • Diagnostics: A mechanic can perform a fuel pressure test both at idle and under load, and also check for 'key on, engine off' pressure to see if it's holding.
  2. Fuel Pressure Regulator (FPR): If the FPR isn't maintaining proper fuel pressure, it can lead to either too much or too little fuel, causing hard starts or stalling. A leaking FPR can also cause issues.
  3. Clogged Fuel Filter: While less common on modern vehicles where the filter is often integrated with the pump and designed for longer life, a severely clogged filter can restrict fuel flow.
  4. Ignition System Issues: Although less likely without a misfire code (P030x), weak spark plugs or failing coil packs can contribute to hard starts, especially when warm, as resistance changes with heat.
  5. Crankshaft Position Sensor: A failing crankshaft position sensor can cause intermittent stalling or no-start conditions, as it provides critical timing information to the engine computer. However, this often triggers a CEL (e.g., P0335).

When to See a Shop: You should have your 2019 Charger SXT inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Intermittent stalling, especially at stop lights, is a safety concern. They will be able to:

  • Perform a comprehensive fuel pressure test.
  • Check for any pending or historical diagnostic trouble codes that haven't illuminated the CEL.
  • Inspect the fuel system components and potentially test ignition components. Addressing this proactively can prevent you from being stranded and avoid potential damage to other engine components due to improper fuel delivery.
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