Will not stay running?

2004 CHEVROLET MALIBU
124,060 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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STEPHANIE FROMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Car starts but immediately shuts off.
Dec 30, 2020 at 8:27 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

The first thing I suspect is a failed fuel pump. What I would suggest is to check fuel pump pressure. Here is a link that explains in general how it is done:

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

Here are the manufacturer's specs as far as testing:

2004 Chevrolet Malibu V6-3.5L VIN 8
Fuel Pump Pressure
Vehicle Powertrain Management Fuel Delivery and Air Induction Fuel Pump Specifications Pressure, Vacuum and Temperature Fuel Pump Pressure
FUEL PUMP PRESSURE
Fuel Pressure (Key ON, Engine OFF) .................... 384-425 kPa (50-60 psi)

_________________________

Here are the directions specific to your vehicle. The attached pics correlate with the directions.

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2004 Chevrolet Malibu V6-3.5L VIN 8
Fuel Pressure Gage Installation and Removal
Vehicle Powertrain Management Fuel Delivery and Air Induction Fuel Pump Fuel Pressure Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics Fuel Pressure Gage Installation and Removal
FUEL PRESSURE GAGE INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL
FUEL PRESSURE GAGE INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL

TOOLS REQUIRED
J 34730-1A Fuel Pressure Gage

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

CAUTION:
- Gasoline or gasoline vapors are highly flammable. A fire could occur if an ignition source is present. Never drain or store gasoline or diesel fuel in an open container, due to the possibility of fire or explosion. Have a dry chemical (Class B) fire extinguisher nearby.
- Wrap a shop towel around the fuel pressure connection in order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury. The towel will absorb any fuel leakage that occurs during the connection of the fuel pressure gauge. Place the towel in an approved container when the connection of the fuel pressure gauge is complete.

NOTE: Refer to Fuel and Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Hose/Pipe Connection Cleaning Notice in Service Precautions.


pic 1

1. Install the J 34730-1A to the fuel pressure service connection, located on the fuel rail.
2. Turn ON the ignition.

CAUTION: Do not drain the fuel into an open container. Never store the fuel in an open container due to the possibility of a fire or an explosion.

3. Place the bleed hose of the fuel pressure gauge into an approved gasoline container.
4. Open the bleed valve on the fuel pressure gauge in order to bleed the air from the fuel pressure gauge.
5. Command the fuel pump ON with a scan tool.
6. Close the bleed valve on the fuel pressure gauge.
7. Inspect for fuel leaks.

REMOVAL PROCEDURE
1. Place the fuel pressure gauge bleed hose into an approved container and open the bleed valve in order to bleed OFF fuel system pressure.
2. Place a shop towel under the fuel pressure gauge in order to catch any remaining fuel spillage.


pic 2

3. Remove the fuel pressure gauge from the fuel pressure connection.
4. Drain any fuel remaining in the fuel pressure gauge into an approved container.
5. Inspect for leaks using the following procedure:
5.1. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF for 2 seconds.
5.2. Turn OFF the ignition, for 10 seconds.
5.3. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
5.4. Inspect for fuel leaks.
6. Install the cap on the fuel pressure connection.


You will need a fuel pressure gauge, but most parts stores will lend you one to use.


Start with this and let me know the results.

Take care,
Joe
Dec 31, 2020 at 9:54 AM
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Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.