Does not start after running out of fuel

1998 MAZDA VAN

215,000 MILES • MANUAL

MIMICHA LALA

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Hi there,

I am really lost about my van, I ran out of fuel so I put some fuel on it and put the key to start but my van stop and did not start anymore.
I can do the jump start and my battery is charge but it goes flat something taking the power of even when the car is off.
Thank you for your help.

Van listed above is a e2000

Jan 27, 2020 at 6:00 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
110,193 POSTS

Hi,

If you ran out of fuel, you may have damaged the fuel pump. The first thing I suggest is to check for fuel pressure to the engine.

Here is a link that shows in general how it is done:

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

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Jan 27, 2020 at 7:24 PM

MIMICHA LALA

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thank you for your answer.
If it is the fuel pressure why I can jump start and drive for 2 hours?
Is it possible to drive 2 hours with the jump start even when the fuel pressure is down?

Jan 27, 2020 at 10:05 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
110,193 POSTS

Honestly, one wouldn't think so. However, since the issue started with running out of fuel, I feel there is a correlation. You mentioned that something is draining the battery as well. When you don't jump start the vehicle, does the starter still engage and turn the engine normally?

Joe

Jan 28, 2020 at 7:35 PM

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