Intermittent issue with engine sputtering, shutting off and no start

TRACTIRUSA

MEMBER
1999 TOYOTA CAMRY
2.2L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
285,500 MILES

Hi there, I have the car listed above LE. I have had intermittent problems over the past year with the vehicle sputtering, shutting off, and sometimes no-starting. 6 months ago I replaced the fuel pump relay, and experienced no symptoms for quite a while, then they came back. I then replaced the fuel filter, same result, fine for a while, then came back. Last week, the symptoms came back with a vengeance, shut off on me, and no-started for a while. I also experienced, for the first time, the smell of gas. By no-starting, I mean I would have to cycle the key on and off, and wait a bit, and eventually it would start. So I replaced the fuel pump, test drove it, and the symptoms are still there. I'm guessing my next step would be to replace the fuel pressure regulator, located right next to the fuel pump I just replaced? I really don't have a way to pressure check it, and do not want to risk driving it into town (20 miles).

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

I think you are on the right path. The way to check this is to check the fuel pressure when this is happening. Everything you said sounds like a fuel issue.

If the engine is not starting right now, try spraying a little starter fluid in the intake and see if fires for a second. If it does then we know it is a fuel issue.

However, I would check pressure no matter what and see what it is when this is happening.

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

Let me know if you have questions. Thanks