Attention all automotive mechanics, what type of problem does this sound like?

Question

Ok i have a Ford Focus 2001 model about 117,000 miles. It drives great on the freeway, but when you have a stop light or are sitting idle the car will die and the battery light comes on. The car starts right back up though and if you rev the engine while in park it seems fine?

Answer 1

i agree with wheel man, you could have so many different problems and have that very same scenario. if you have it in drive it dies, but in park it runs fine, idle could be set to low, you could have a failing torque converter clutch control, you need to get to a shop and have it checked out completely.  

Answer 2

Most likely are old O2 sensor, or bad Idle Air Control Valve.

Answer 3

sounds like your throttle body sencor is bad,this controlls your idle speed.

Answer 4

there are so many potential causes to this.  The above answers are all possibilities.  I would also add that it could be the catalytic converter.  The issue could either be a lack of fuel, lack of air, or lack of free flowing exhaust, choking the engine with carbon at low rpm's.

Answer 5

With out actually diagnosing the car electronically, I would say that your idle needs to be adjusted.

Some other options would be that you have:

- sensor that needs replaced

- air flow sensor

- O2 sensor

- a timing problem (unlikely)

Could be a fuel injector problem if the fuel pressure is low. This can be caused by a bad fuel pump, or an old fuel filter.

J. Biz