Engine cranks but does not start, low fuel pressure, what should the pressure be at?

ALEXREMI

MEMBER
2016 CHEVROLET EQUINOX
2.4L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
12,300 MILES

The battery is good, the car cranks but just won't turn on. I've changed both fuel pumps, the high pressure on the motor and the fuel assembly tank in the gas tank. I'm getting very low fuel pressure. With the key on but car off my pressure is about 15 to 18. What's the pressure supposed to be and what other issues could I have with the car to get it started?

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,319 POSTS

The primary fuel pressure system is controlled by the computer by limiting the fuel pump voltage, the high side fuel pressure is produced by a mechanical pump on the engine for the direct injection pump. Here are the fuel pressure specs:

Pressure Specification

2.4L
Not Running - 345-690 kPa (50-100 psi)
Running - 300-400 kPa (43-58 psi)

3.6L
Not Running - 345-690 kPa (50-100 psi)
Running - 300-400 kPa (43-58 psi)

So, it sounds like you have a primary fuel pump that has gone bad, or the sensor is not working correctly. Here is the location of the sensor and how to do the fuel pressure test correctly. Also, I have included how to change the primary pump out in the diagrams below. Check out the diagrams (below). Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.

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