Engine Doesn't Always Turnover

SATURN
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1997 Saturn SC1, 55K miles: Over the last year or more my saturn has started not turning over everytime I try to start the engine. Sometimes it starts fine with one turn of the key. Other times it rattles, coughs and bascially chokes until I turn off the key and turn it back on, and it starts fine. (BTW, I'm not flooding the engine.) The mechanics don't seem to notice or haven't said anyting about it. What's causing this? It's driveable but frustrating.
Feb 22, 2006 at 2:08 PM
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PEPPERMRJ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,158 POSTS
Sounds like you might have a fuel pump problem. You say the car will crank and start sometimes, but only crank with no start other times.

When you turn the key to the on position you should be able to hear the fuel pump buzz for a few seconds. Turn it off and then back to the on position a second time and try to start it. This will help give the pump time to pressurize the system.

Eventually the pump will fail and need to be replaced.

Good luck and let us know. :)
Feb 23, 2006 at 4:40 AM
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Suggested Repair

With the key on, listen for the fuel pump to buzz for a few seconds. Cycle the key off and back to on so the pump can pressurize the system, then try starting. If the intermittent hard start continues, the fuel pump is likely failing and should be replaced.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1997 Saturn SC1 says the engine sometimes starts normally and other times rattles, coughs, and struggles until the key is turned off and back on. The owner says the engine is not being flooded. An expert suggests a failing fuel pump, recommends listening for the pump buzz and priming the system by cycling the key to on, and notes the pump will eventually need replacement.

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