Will not start, water in the gas tank?

Tiny
DUWHOP31
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 NISSAN ALTIMA
  • 2.5L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 194,000 MILES
On Friday I put gas in my tank from my 2-gallon gas can that I keep outside. I believe some water got in the gas can from rain. I started my car and went inside to get my work shirt. When I came back out to leave it wasn't running, so I tried to crank it and it wouldn't crank. I immediately realized there was probably water in the gas can, because of all the rain lately. I went to AutoZone to get a siphon pump (also got a bottle of heet) put it in and tried to crank (just 2 turn pump on) then I removed my fuel filter under back seat and siphoned all the gas out and then put filter back and closed it up and put new gas in 2 gallons and it still didn't start. My car is on a slope so maybe I need to add a little more gas. If that doesn't work what should or could I do?
Monday, March 11th, 2024 AT 11:20 AM

8 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,068 POSTS
Hi,

I would try adding fuel. If that doesn't work, we will likely need to remove and clear the fuel injectors, fuel rail, and the tubing between the filter and engine. If there was water that caused the issue, it made its way into the engine.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Monday, March 11th, 2024 AT 7:01 PM
Tiny
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  • 151 POSTS
Should I also buy a new fuel pump?
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Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 AT 6:31 PM
Tiny
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I put gas in it and it didn't start. I took out my spark plugs and cleaned inside the wells. Now I've got new spark plugs to put in. Should I also check my oil?
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Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 AT 6:34 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,068 POSTS
Hi,

It is always a good idea to check the oil. As far as your concerns, the pump should be okay. Before replacing it, let's see if it runs first. If it doesn't, then we can check the pump. However, it should be okay.

Let me know

Joe
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Tuesday, March 12th, 2024 AT 7:33 PM
Tiny
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  • MEMBER
  • 151 POSTS
It is still not starting.
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Wednesday, March 13th, 2024 AT 5:39 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,068 POSTS
Hi,

Okay, no problem. I need you to try something, so I know which direction to take you. See if the vehicle will start if you use starting fluid. If it starts and then stalls, we will know it is a fuel related issue. If there is no change, I need you to check for spark at the plugs.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

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

If you are uncomfortable performing the tests, here is a link that explains how to check fuel pump pressure. You will need a fuel pressure gauge, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

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

I attached the manufacturer's procedures below for you. Also, the procedures include the pressure specifications.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Wednesday, March 13th, 2024 AT 6:57 PM
Tiny
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I tried starting fluid but it did not start.
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Thursday, March 14th, 2024 AT 9:10 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,068 POSTS
Hi,

The next possibility is ignition spark. Were you able to confirm if it has spark? Also, could you record it cranking and upload it for me to hear?

Let me know.

Joe
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Thursday, March 14th, 2024 AT 7:46 PM

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