Car will not start cold

JYATES12

MEMBER
2003 OLDSMOBILE ALERO
3.4L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
149,000 MILES

This problem just started. When the car is cold (after sitting for a few hours) the car will crank and crank but wont start. The plugs have spark, I have 55PSI of fuel pressure at the rail. I have replaced the crank shaft censor and still nothing. After working on the car for a while, we have realized that the fuel injectors aren't pulsing. The car will fire up and run perfectly with a little bit of starting fluid. After it starts, you can shut it off and it will fire right up with no problems. I am all out of ideas on what the problem can be.

Saturday, November 30th, 2019 AT 12:09 PM

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Just so I am clear. The engine will not start when it is cold but if you give it starter fluid it will start and continue to run? Then you can shut it off and start it right back up and it runs?

When did you get the 55 PSI of pressure? Was this after cranking or with just turning the key to the on position with no cranking?

Couple possible issues. Depending on the fuel pressure, I suspect you have moisture in the fuel. I would start with changing the fuel filter. The next possible cause is the pump. When the fuel is cold it can cause the pump to under perform which is why it doesn't happen when its warm.

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