Will not stay running

2004 BUICK LESABRE
51,439 MILES • 6 CYL
Avatar
TERRI JALOMO
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
The car sat for about a year because it stopped working for the other person that own it. We tried to get it started. We thought it was the fuel filter.
We change it, did not work. Then we changed the fuel pump. Still will not stay on. Started but will not stay on unless you have your foot on the gas pedal.
Jul 25, 2018 at 5:45 PM
Avatar
STEVE W.
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,367 POSTS
If it starts but you need to give it extra gas the system needs to relearn the idle position for the throttle.
Once it has run for a while it will learn it and idle.
Jul 25, 2018 at 6:26 PM
Avatar
TERRI JALOMO
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
No it to runs rough then it turns off.
Jul 25, 2018 at 6:50 PM
Avatar
TERRI JALOMO
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
Does my car have a shut off valve for the fuel pump?
Jul 25, 2018 at 6:59 PM
Avatar
STEVE W.
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,367 POSTS
No shut off for the pump. It should come on for the prime cycle then once the engine fires it turns on until the engine shuts off or you turn off the key.

Running rough sounds like you have other issues, like misfires and possibly vacuum leaks or a stuck open EGR. How long does it run before it shuts off? Two to three seconds would be the immobilizer shutting it off. Longer would be the other issues.
Jul 25, 2018 at 7:14 PM
Avatar
TERRI JALOMO
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
It only stays on for three to four seconds and the fuel pump is good and is on right.
Jul 26, 2018 at 2:37 AM
Avatar
STEVE W.
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 15,367 POSTS
Okay, that short is likely the immobilizer shutting off the pump. First thing would be to try a different key as it sounds like the system is not recognizing the one you have. If two keys that were used with this car do not work then you likely have a problem farther in the anti-theft system. For that you would need to use a good scan tool to watch what the system is seeing when you use the key.
Jul 26, 2018 at 3:08 AM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle