A generator that starts and then stops after a few seconds or minutes is experiencing a condition that triggers its automatic shutdown protection or fuel starvation. The most common cause is fuel delivery problems. A clogged carburetor main jet, partially blocked fuel filter, or a fuel cap that is not venting will allow enough fuel to start but not enough to continue running under load. As the bowl empties, the engine dies. Another very common cause is low oil level. Most modern generators have a low-oil shutdown sensor that will start the engine and then shut it off within seconds if oil is below the safe threshold. Check oil level on level ground. Other causes include a clogged air filter causing an overly rich mixture, a fouled spark plug that fails under heat, or an overloaded condition where the generator cannot handle the connected load and trips its breaker or stalls. For inverter generators, a faulty inverter module or overheating can cause shutdown. Also check the spark arrestor screen in the muffler, which can become clogged with carbon and cause back pressure that stalls the engine. Finally, stale gasoline that has lost volatility may ignite briefly but not sustain combustion. Always check oil, fuel freshness, and air flow first.
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