Shut off while driving it but would start right back?

Tiny
ALYSHA PEACOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 KIA RIO
  • 1.6L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 120,000 MILES
The car started acting like it was going to shut off then twice it randomly shut off while driving it but would start right back. This last time I was driving; it shut off and will not start back. It's not even acting like it wants to start. All lights work in dash. No check engine light. I replaced the fuel pump and still will not start or even turn over. The vehicle listed above is an Lx model.
Wednesday, September 18th, 2024 AT 4:01 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,053 POSTS
Hi,

What you described sounds ignition related. Here is what I need you to try. Since the fuel pump is new, chances are that isn't the problem, so we need to check for ignition spark.

Here is a link that explains how that is done. If you find there is no spark at the plugs, suspect the crankshaft position sensor has failed. Also, when cranking it, see if the tachometer moves at all and let me know.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Note: If you are uncomfortable performing that test, see if it starts with starting fluid. If it starts and then stalls, then its fuel related. If there is no change, spark is the likely issue.

Also, let me know if the engine sounds the same while cranking. If possible, record it and upload it for me to hear. I should be able to tell if we lost compression due to a timing related issue.

Let me know.

Joe
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Wednesday, September 18th, 2024 AT 8:10 PM
Tiny
ALYSHA PEACOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 15 POSTS
Yes, the tachometer moves a tiny bit. Is there a fuel pump reset button on my vehicle listed above? I read another person had an issue like mine and they reset theirs and it fixed their problem. I really don't feel comfortable doing the wire test. I am so very thankful for you helping me. My mother and I usually do all car repairs to our vehicles, but we only know a little and of course we watch countless YouTube videos as well.

Alysha Peacock
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Thursday, September 19th, 2024 AT 9:08 AM
Tiny
ALYSHA PEACOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 15 POSTS
This is what it will do when trying to start. This is after a new fuel filter installed but was also doing same thing before installation.
Video (Click to make bigger)
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Thursday, September 19th, 2024 AT 9:19 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,053 POSTS
Hi,

It doesn't sound like a compression or timing issue. That leaves spark or fuel. Will it try to start if you use starting fluid?

Let me know.

Joe
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Thursday, September 19th, 2024 AT 6:30 PM
Tiny
ALYSHA PEACOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 15 POSTS
Yes, it started with starting fluid and remained started.
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Wednesday, September 25th, 2024 AT 12:51 PM
Tiny
ALYSHA PEACOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 15 POSTS
Test drove it and it stalled and will not start back even using starting fluid to try to start it again.
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Wednesday, September 25th, 2024 AT 1:44 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,053 POSTS
Alysha,

If it still won't start, I need you to check if the spark plugs are getting spark. Here is a link that explains how to check:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Do this and let me know the results.

Joe
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Wednesday, September 25th, 2024 AT 8:11 PM

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