Hard start, cranks and fires but does not run?

DAVIDDELOVELY

MEMBER
2011 DODGE AVENGER
2.4L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
155,000 MILES

The car cranks over well, fast enough but fires/ chugs trying to start but seems starving of fuel, enough to fire but not fully start. If we hold the gas pedal to the floor it will finally start, hard. No check engine light stays on, Lightning bolt has come on and off for about 10 seconds a couple times during driving.
No noticeable loss of power or problems while driving.

All problems are just during start up and not every single time but most of time.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,872 POSTS

Hi,

The lightning bolt is related to the throttle circuit. I'm not sure why it would go on and off at this point.

On the other hand, if you need to hold the throttle to the floor, the computer stops fuel to the engine to clear a flooded engine. Have you ever noticed any smoke from the exhaust, specifically gray or black?

The fuel pressure regulator is located in the fuel tank and is part of the fuel module. You may want to consider checking the fuel pressure to confirm it is within specification.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

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

I attached the manufacturer's fuel pressure specifications below. You will need a fuel pressure gauge to perform this, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

Also, have you had a chance to have the computer scanned for diagnostic trouble codes? If you haven't, stop at a local parts store and have them do it for you. Most do it free of charge. Let me know if they find codes and what they are.

Let me know your thoughts or what you find.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)