Hard start and whining noise?

DANIELCABLE03

MEMBER
1998 CHEVROLET LUMINA
3.1L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
155,000 MILES

My car has a hard time starting after it’s been sitting for more than 5 minutes. I have to keep the key turned for about 5 seconds before it’ll actually start and then I have to hit the gas to keep it from shutting off. It’s progressively gotten worse over the last few days. I’ve cleaned and changed the EGR valve as well as the line going into the intake from the EGR valve. It also has a little bit of a rough idle and a whining noise while it’s sitting idling with nothing turned on. Anybody know what could be causing it. It still runs and drives good!

Monday, March 20th, 2023 AT 4:54 PM

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Hi,

What you described sounds like a fuel pressure drop-off issue. Just for curiosity, do you notice any smoke (dark gray or black) from the exhaust when the engine finally starts?

If not, here is where I need you to start. First, confirm there is no evidence of a fuel leak. Check under the hood and vehicle. Also, take note of any fuel odor.

If that appears good, I need you to check the fuel pressure. In addition to the fuel pressure, we need to watch for fuel pressure drop when the pump turns off.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

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

If you look below, I attached diagnostics for testing and diagnosing different conditions found. The diagnostics include fuel pressure specifications.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

See pics below.

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