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Car starts intermittently?

Tiny
TALONLUVSWIFI
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 154,000 MILES
She said no check engine light. Car starts sometimes and cranks over. No gas mileage loss, new starter, new alternator, new battery. She thinks its fuel related from what she's been told. I bought a fuel pressure tester at Harbor Freight. Any suggestions/warnings on how to use that? I have a voltmeter to check the relay. Please send instructions for that. I'm thinking fuel pump or fuel injection. Car hasn't shut off on her once, just trouble starting only sometimes, and it cranks like it wants to start. Please send me your best recommendation and what you would do also your own opinion from the sound from the video too.
I really appreciate it. Thanks
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Monday, December 5th, 2022 AT 1:57 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

If there is an extended crank before it starts, it does sound like a weak fuel pump or fuel pressure drop-off.

To get you started, here is a link that explains in general how to check fuel pressure:.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

If you look below, pic 1 provides the manufacturer's fuel pressure specifications. The remaining pictures are the direction specific to this vehicle.

Do this and let me know the results.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Monday, December 5th, 2022 AT 7:59 PM
Tiny
TALONLUVSWIFI
  • MEMBER
  • 27 POSTS
How do I command the fuel pump on with the scan tool? What should the psi be? How can test the fuel pump with a voltmeter or anything similar to see fir sure that that is the part?
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Monday, December 5th, 2022 AT 8:31 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

It requires a scan tool that can communicate and command the different components on. If you don't have access to one, then follow the directions in the link.

Let me know.

Joie
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Monday, December 5th, 2022 AT 9:35 PM

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