Car will not stay running

Welcome to 2CarPros.

If it runs for a couple seconds with starting fluid and then stalls, you are not getting fuel to the engine. Although you hear the pump running, you really need to confirm fuel pressure. Also, check to see if there is an injector pulse to the injectors.

Here are a couple links that will help:

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

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-fuel-injector

Here are the manufacturer's specs for fuel pressure:

Fuel Pressure (Key ON, Engine OFF) .................... 384-425 kPa (50-60 psi)

Also, you will need to use some general test equipment for checking injectors. Here are a few links that may help:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Additionally, you will need a fuel pressure gauge to check pressure. If you don't have one, most parts stores will lend or rent one to you and then return your deposit when you return the tool.

Do these things and let me know the results so I can further help you diagnose the issue.

Take care,
Joe

Is the security light on the dashboard staying on or flashing?

Welcome back:

If the light is on, it shouldn't start. So, since you said it has spark, I need you to check both the fuel pump pressure and the injectors for a pulse.

Here is a link that shows how to check for an injector pulse:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-fuel-injector

Here is a link that shows in general how to test fuel pressure. Although you hear the pump, it may not be producing enough pressure to keep the engine running.

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

If you refer back to my original response, it shows links that explain how to use the general electrical equipment needed to test the injectors.

Here are the specifications for the fuel pressure:

Fuel Pressure (Key ON, Engine OFF) .................... 384-425 kPa (50-60 psi)

Most parts stores will lend you a fuel pressure gauge to test your vehicle. Since it starts for a second with starting fluid, the problem is fuel related.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Okay, it's likely not the security system. As Joe suggests, check fuel pressure and injector pulse. I'm going to leave it to him as he has it under control. Thanks for using 2CarPros and good luck.