Intermittent not starting issue?

Tiny
KAMELBLACK
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 DODGE STRATUS
  • 4 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 2,000 MILES
The engine will turn over like it's going to start but it won't. Sometimes when I get it started, I have to turn the key as I tap the gas pedal at same time over and over. The mileage I couldn't remember, so I did a quick guess.
Sunday, October 23rd, 2022 AT 8:48 AM

6 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

This can be caused by several different things. For example, it could be low fuel pressure, an issue with the ignition switch, an engine vacuum leak and so on.

When this happens and it eventually starts, have you ever noticed any smoke from the exhaust? If so, is it gray or black?

Also, does the check engine light stay on while the engine is running?

The idea that it starts if you tap the throttle leads me to think it is a fuel-related issue because when you press the throttle on a fuel-injected vehicle, it shuts the pump down to clear flooding.

When running, does it have a rough idle or any hesitation when pressing the throttle?

Let me know. If the check engine light is on, stop at a nationally recognized parts store and have them scan the computer for you. Let me know what codes are found.

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, October 23rd, 2022 AT 8:41 PM
Tiny
KAMELBLACK
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Thank you for replying, it only had smoke one time then stop reasoning. I believe it was because I just had put oil in it. But the engine lights stay on sometimes. Sometimes it won't but the fuel I can usually put Lil gas in it then turn and tap pedal like 15 minutes and it'll start.
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Sunday, October 23rd, 2022 AT 9:07 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

Okay, it is either an ignition or fuel-related issue. Here is what I need you to do. When it won't start, try using starting fluid to see if it does. If it starts and then stalls, we know its fuel related. If there is no change, I need you to check for spark when it won't start.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Let me know what you find. I have a feeling it's the fuel pressure.

Take care,

Joe
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Monday, October 24th, 2022 AT 6:05 PM
Tiny
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Okay, thank you. I will try that after work.
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Tuesday, October 25th, 2022 AT 12:46 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. Let me know the results. I'm interested in knowing the results.

Take care,

Joe
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Tuesday, October 25th, 2022 AT 4:51 PM
Tiny
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Will do Joe.
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Tuesday, October 25th, 2022 AT 6:16 PM

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