engine wont start without starter fluid

2000 DODGE CARAVAN
300,000 MILES
Avatar
56VETTE
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Engine only starts with starter fluid. then runs very rough getting worse the longer its running or the hotter it gets. When it gets really bad i have to pump the accelerator rapidly. To keep it barely running. I installed a new fuel pump and filter 1 year ago this month. Also shortly before it started doing this i used some sort of fuel treatment/injector cleaner.
Jul 27, 2013 at 5:55 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,248 POSTS
If you need starting fluid to start it, it is a fuel related problem. The first thing I would recommend is to check the fuel pump pressure. Based on your description, it sounds weak or what I call a lazy pump. Basically, it can't produce the pressure to start the engine but will try to keep it running after started.

If you need directions, go to our homepage under the DIY section. There you will find directions and a video to guide you through checking the fuel pump pressure.

Let me know what you find.
Oct 23, 2019 at 7:48 AM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle