2000 Pontiac Sunfire Ran out of gas, still won't start

2000 PONTIAC SUNFIRE
Avatar
JENLAFATA
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
2000 Pontiac Sunfire 4 cyl

Hi, I ran my 2000 pontiac sunfire out of gas today. Put 2 gallons back in, but the car will just turn over and not start. It acts like it's still out of gas, but I can smell gas while I'm trying to start it. What could this be? Or maybe do I need to give it more time, or pump more???
Apr 23, 2009 at 7:45 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 16,542 POSTS
Hello
Thanks for the donation


The fuel needs to be "sucked" into the system. Turn your key until you hear fuel pump kick in. The pump will run for 3-4 seconds. Then turn key off and turn back again. Do this several times so the fuel can be pressurized through the lines and reach the engine. Let me know how it turns out..








Thanks for using 2CarPros.com!
Apr 23, 2009 at 8:08 PM
Avatar
JENLAFATA
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
I did that for a while last night and this morning with a lil more success, sounding better, but not starting. I checked the filter, it seemed clogged so we replaced that, but its still doing the same thing. I can hear the fuel pump coming on and off, and when I was under the car with my had on the bottom of the fuel tank, with someone turning the key on and off, I could feel it and hear it. It didn't have any other problems before it ran out. Any ideas?
Apr 25, 2009 at 4:55 PM
Avatar
JENLAFATA
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
Ok, update, I got some starter fluid and sprayed it in the throttle, the car started (yeah!) but died as soon as I hit the gas. We did this several times, and everytime it would run for a second or 2, then die. I was told it could be the Fuel Injector Pressure Regulator, to check and see if its clogged, but I can't find it!!!! Can you give me a good idea, or even better, a pic of where it is! Thanks!
Apr 25, 2009 at 9:34 PM
Avatar
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 16,542 POSTS
The fuel pressure regulator is located on the throttle body of the 1.0L engine and it is located on the fuel rail for the 3.0L engine.
Apr 25, 2009 at 10:52 PM
Avatar
JENLAFATA
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
My car's a 2.2L,, would it be in the same place?
Apr 26, 2009 at 10:30 AM
Avatar
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 16,542 POSTS
Yes, the 2.2L engine's fuel pressure regulator is on the fuel rail as well. The fuel pressure regulator (2) has an O-ring (4) at the top where it enters the fuel rail (1), and is held by a retaining screw (3) on the bracket


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/261618_1_65.jpg

Thanks for using 2CarPros.com!
Apr 26, 2009 at 11:18 AM
Avatar
JENLAFATA
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
After I cleaned out the fuel regulator, it started right up! Thanks for the help!!
Apr 26, 2009 at 6:02 PM
Avatar
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 16,542 POSTS
Great, we're glad you got your vehicle fixed.







Thanks for using 2CarPros.com!
Apr 26, 2009 at 6:03 PM
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.