My car keeps stalling at red lights – what should I check first?

Hey folks,

I drive a 2012 Honda Accord (4-cylinder, automatic), and recently it started stalling when I come to a complete stop—like at red lights or in traffic. It doesn’t happen every time, but often enough to make me nervous.

The engine doesn’t shake or throw a check engine light beforehand, it just quietly dies. I can usually start it back up right away, but this is getting frustrating (and a little dangerous).

I’ve cleaned the throttle body and checked the battery/alternator—both are in good shape. I’m not super experienced with DIY car repair, but I’m willing to learn.

Any ideas on what to check next?

Appreciate any help!

Hey man,

Had the same issue with my old Camry a while back. For me, it was the idle air control valve—cleaned it out and the stalling stopped.

Might be worth checking that, or maybe a vacuum leak somewhere. Doesn’t always throw a code.

Hope you get it figured out soon. Let us know what fixes it.