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Car starts for two to three seconds then stalls

Tiny
VINNIEVALENS
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO
  • 2.2L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 110,000 MILES
Changed out ignition switch, pass-lock sensor, still won't start. Noticed that gas gauge was at 1/4 tank then drops to or below the E while key is on. Will return to 1/4 tank after a few second's then back to E. Any ideas would help.
Saturday, December 7th, 2019 AT 2:20 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,397 POSTS
Hello,

When you crank the engine over to start the engine does the security light flash? If so this guide will help reset it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-reset-a-security-system

Please run down this guide and report back.
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Sunday, December 8th, 2019 AT 5:48 PM
Tiny
VINNIEVALENS
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Sorry, tried all the resets and still won't start. Security light is on and not flashing. Engine runs for a few seconds and stops.
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Friday, December 13th, 2019 AT 8:48 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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When the engine stalls, turn the key off then to the on position without cranking the engine over can you hear the fuel pump run in the tank for 5 seconds?
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Monday, December 16th, 2019 AT 11:08 AM
Tiny
VINNIEVALENS
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Yes, checked fuel lines and wiring. Fuel pump works and there's gas running to the engine (pressed bleeder valve and strong pressured gas shot out).
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Monday, December 16th, 2019 AT 10:03 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,397 POSTS
Okay cool, now when the engine stops running can we check for spark? Here is a guide to help us:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Please run down this guide and report back.
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Tuesday, December 17th, 2019 AT 11:53 AM
Tiny
VINNIEVALENS
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Hello, checked ignition coils and installed new spark plugs (needed new ones anyway, been 8 months since I last changed them). Tried 30 minute reset to make sure it isn't security. On last 10, I turned on key. I didn't start it but noticed that security light and service vehicle soon came on. Security light is not flashing, but just on. Any ideas?
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Friday, December 20th, 2019 AT 7:42 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,397 POSTS
Do you have spark when the engine is cranking over? Check out the guide for the test.
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Saturday, December 21st, 2019 AT 11:29 AM

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