Crank no start

2006 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE
220,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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JEREMIAHMIHULKA
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  • 2 POSTS
I have the car listed above. It cranks over but does not start once in awhile it will sputter and start for 2 to 3 seconds and then shuts off. what is the problem?
May 17, 2021 at 6:35 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

The crank no-start condition can be caused by a couple of things. In most cases, it is either related to a fuel issue or an ignition issue. You could try to see if it starts using starting fluid for a few seconds and then stalls. That would indicate a fuel pressure issue. If it doesn't change anything, then it is likely related to ignition spark.

First, take a look through this link. It discusses the most common causes of a crank no start.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Also, here are two additional links. One is for testing ignition spark and the other for testing fuel pressure.

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

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

Start by checking those things and let me know the results. Also, if it's possible for you to record it cranking and upload it for me to hear, it may be helpful.

Take care and I'll watch for your reply.

Joe
May 18, 2021 at 12:40 PM
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JEREMIAHMIHULKA
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  • 2 POSTS
I believe that it has to do with the immobilization security feature installed, but i have checked and there is spark. Also there is fuel coming from the hose when i crank the engine, but there may be water in the gas as it sat for a year with a full tank. i did add seafoam and octane booster to the tank and it only stays running with starter fluid.
May 18, 2021 at 3:45 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
If it stays running with starting fluid, either fuel pressure is too low, the fuel is bad, there is no fuel injector pulse, you have a blown fuse, or the fuel injection relay is bad.

Do me a favor. I need you to first confirm there is or isn't an injector pulse. Here is a link that explains how to test for it. Do this and let me know the results:

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

Let me know what you find.

Joe
May 19, 2021 at 12:14 PM
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